Meeting potential buyers and clients regularly is just one of your responsibilities as a realtor. And while your job is mainly about the homes you’re representing and selling, your appearance can influence your success in this industry. But it might not be in the way you think.
First impressions are important, and potential clients often make assumptions about your professionalism and competence based on your appearance. If you’re dressed neatly and professionally, they’re more likely to trust you with such a big purchase. But if you’re wearing stained clothes or have messy hair, they may not take you as seriously.
This may seem like a superficial reason to dress well, but first impressions matter in any industry. And in real estate, where you’re representing people’s homes and one of their most significant financial investments, it’s even more important to look the part. So, here are some tips on how to dress for success as a realtor:
Tip #1 Invest in a versatile wardrobe.
While you don’t need to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe, you must have a few key pieces that you can wear to meetings and appointments. For example, a well-fitting suit or dress will always make you look more professional than jeans and a t-shirt. And it’s essential to have different options, so you’re not wearing the same thing all the time.
Suppose you’re representing a luxury home. In that case, it’s probably best to err on the side of formality and wear a suit or dress to all appointments. But if you’re selling more affordable homes, you might be able to get away with dress pants and a button-down shirt. It all depends on the image you want to project.
You should also invest in more neutral-colored clothing. Black, navy, and gray are always safe choices, but you can also wear cream, white, or light pink. You can mix and match your pieces to create different looks. But don’t be afraid to wear a quirky pattern or loud color every once in a while. It will show that you have personality and can be fun to work with.
Tip #2 Dress for the occasion.
Of course, you don’t need to wear a suit or dress to every meeting or showing. But it’s important to dress appropriately for the occasion. If you’re meeting with a potential client for the first time, err on being too dressy rather than casual. But if you’re doing a walk-through of a home with someone who’s already working with you, dress more casually.
The goal is to strike a balance between being professional and approachable. After all, a significant part of your job as a realtor is being personable and making potential clients feel comfortable. So, if you’re too stiff or formal, they may not be receptive to working with you.
Tip #3 Mind your hygiene and posture.
How you dress isn’t the only aspect of your appearance worth paying attention to. This is because no matter how expensive your clothes are, people will notice if you have unruly hair, bad breath, or a funky smell. So, it’s crucial to mind your hygiene and posture as well.
Make sure you’re always well-groomed or that you’re standing up straight and making eye contact when you’re talking to someone. You should also work on improving your smile if you still haven’t. Missing, chipped, or cracked teeth can make you look unprofessional, even if you wear nice clothes.
You may already be considering dentures to fix those issues, but you might want to look into All-on-4 teeth implants instead. These may be more expensive, but they look and feel more natural than dentures. And since first impressions matter in the real estate industry, it may be worth the investment.
Tip #4 Accessorize wisely.
Your clothes aren’t the only thing that potential clients will notice. Your accessories, such as jewelry and bag, can also make a statement. So, choosing them wisely is essential since they complete your look. Always stick to classic, understated pieces that won’t take away your professionalism.
As for men, it’s best to keep your accessories to a minimum, like a simple watch and cufflinks. You don’t want to wear anything too flashy or attention-grabbing. But you should still find a way to show your personality through clothes and accessories, such as by wearing a pop of color or an interesting pattern.
Remember that your appearance matters when dressing for success in the real estate industry. By dressing well and grooming yourself properly, you’ll make a good impression on potential clients and set yourself up for success. So, don’t underestimate the power of a great outfit!