Your car is your mobile office and home base. You may not have a use–or space–for all of these items, but check out these suggestions to consider what is important to you and your clients.
See the signs
Yard signs might need freshening up. Have extra hardware and replacement parts on hand, along with cleaning wipes, a permanent marker, a mallet, and maybe even a small shovel.
Shed some light
A high-powered flashlight can help you check out dark areas of a property, see to change a burnt-out bulb, or provide a better option than your phone flashlight if you experience car problems at night.
Be a label maker
Bring key tags to put on keys you get from clients. Keep materials ready to make any small signs you might need. And if you wear a nametag in professional settings, have an extra one available.
Clean up
What if you arrive before a showing to find it not quite show ready? Reach for your handy cleaning supplies, like wipes, stain stick, melamine foam erasers, paper towels, window cleaner, stainless steel appliance cleaner, lint roller, gloves, trash bags, and pet waste bags. Wasp spray can also clear the path of uninvited pests.
Fix quick
Small repairs won’t be a big deal, if you have a tool kit with you. Throw in some zip ties, a Swiss Army knife, WD-40, and various kinds of tape, in addition to standards like a hammer, pliers, wrenches, and screwdrivers.
Put it on paper
Keep a small file box or accordion folder to organize paperwork that you don’t have electronically or that you might need in case of technical glitches. You can also use it to store listing packets, marketing materials, blank paper, printed maps, business cards, and pens.
Be in charge
A power bank and USB cords to charge your phone are essentials. You might also consider a power inverter, so you can plug in other devices or charge a laptop.
Shine in the rain
Showers won’t dampen your clients’ spirits if you’re ready with a big umbrella, disposable ponchos, and other wet-weather gear.
Get on the road again
Some car care items could get you or a client back on the road. Jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge, air pump, motor oil, a funnel, coolant, and wiper fluid may save you a trip to the garage. Have your roadside assistance card on hand or on your phone, too, in case you need more help.
Go above and beyond
Dog treats, colored pencils and coloring pages for the kids, antibacterial hand wipes, water, and snacks to share are all thoughtful touches that clients may appreciate. A well-stocked first aid kit can also be a great comfort, though you hope it won’t be needed.
Remember self car(e)
Be kind to your future self by stocking up on portable comforts and conveniences. Bring a change of clothes and shoes, toiletries, a jacket, sunscreen, bug spray, breath mints, water, and plenty of healthy snacks.