Many real estate agents find that their car or other method of transportation turns out to be more of an office than their actual office. Much of the real estate business occurs on the road: on the way to showings, open houses and meetings with clients. Having items in your car that make your life easier is a must. From personal hygiene items to backup attire—there’s a lot you’ll need to be ready for a smooth day and to be prepared for any issues that arise.
Flat shoes
High heels or Oxfords may look great but walking in them all day can cause immense pain. When you’re in between appointments, toss on a pair of flats or sneakers to give your feet a break.
Toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash
If you work on the go, you likely eat on the go. Always have a dental hygiene kit in your car so you can freshen up before meeting with leads and clients.
USB charger
Keep your cell phones, tablets and computers powered up and ready to go with a USB charger, which most modern cars have plug-ins for.
Healthy snacks
Having granola bars, fruit or your preferred snack nearby can prevent you from missing out on nutrition throughout frantic workdays. Having healthy snacks handy will prevent you from making a less-healthy food decision, like fast food.
Air freshener
You probably drive clients around from listing to listing—don’t rub them the wrong way with any “off” smells, especially if you eat in your car. Air fresheners are just a few dollars, and you’ll thank yourself for having one.
Dog treats
Some prospective buyers bring along their dogs on their home search, or occupied listings may have one at the house. Having dog treats on-hand will surely impress fur parents!
Screenshots of website/listings
Not everywhere you go has good service or WiFi, and you don’t want to miss out on business because of it. By taking screenshots of your website and listing pages, you’ll have a solid backup plan to show prospective clients listings that might interest them.
Here is what some CRSs say help them survive while on the go:
“I have a pair of flip-flops for the drive home, a hair scrunchie and cell phone chargers. Also, I always travel with an umbrella. I live in Florida, and if it is not raining now, wait 30 minutes and it will be.”
—Tiffany DeVaux Spence, CRS
“A hammer, because you never know when you’ll need one. And in the summer, a silicone oven mitt—lockboxes will burn you when it hits 110 degrees out here in Arizona.”
—Jan Leighton, CRS
“I have a real estate box in the trunk of my car that contains these essential items: a flashlight; AA batteries; measuring tape; light bulbs; a receptacle tester; masking tape; pliers; a screwdriver; a small water wrench; a small umbrella; work gloves; and the ever-important roll of toilet tissue.”
—Jesse Cordova, CRS
For other REALTOR® lifestyle content, check out “This REALTOR® Life” written by RRC members at CRS.com/resources/this-realtor-life-blog.
Photo: iStock.com/Youngoldman
