DRIVE GENTLY

Real estate agents tend to drive at least 20,000 miles per year, and high gas prices hit them hard in the wallet. However, Edmunds.com reports that drivers can use 31 percent to 37 percent less gas by gently accelerating, and they can lower gas consumption by 12 percent to 14 percent by driving the speed limit. Taking advantage of cruise control reduces gas consumption by 7 percent to 14 percent, while turning the car off while waiting uses 19 percent less gas. Drivers can get more gas for their money by fueling up in the morning, and they reduce wear on their tires by keeping them inflated at the recommended levels. Experts also note that turning the air conditioner off does not save much gas. Additionally, real estate professionals should consider working from home a couple days per week, saving upwards of 40 percent on fuel expenses; using video tours or PowerPoint presentations to show their listings to co-workers; reducing their vehicle’s weight by keeping unnecessary items at home; running numerous errands in a single trip; and screening buyers to ensure they visit only those homes that best meet their needs.

Source:
Inman News (07/18/08) Ross, Bernice
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