Have you ever walked into a meeting room, ready to wow your potential clients with your market knowledge and negotiation skills, only to be met with raised eyebrows and curious glances? Awkward, right? As a real estate agent, you know that your expertise is your greatest asset, but let's face it – in this image-conscious industry, your appearance can speak volumes before you even open your mouth. 

First impressions aren't just important in real estate; they can be deal-makers or deal-breakers. Your wardrobe choices aren't just about looking good (though that's a nice bonus). They're a powerful tool in your professional image, silently communicating your attention to detail, your professionalism, and yes, even your success.

Remember that blog I wrote about the wardrobe no-nos for women in real estate? (It was quite the hit if I do say so myself!) Well, I received a gentle nudge from male realtors asking, "Hey, what about us?" And you know what? You're absolutely right! It's high time we also addressed the dos and don'ts for the gentlemen of real estate.

So, gents, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this guide is for you. This blog will guide you through the key wardrobe missteps every man in real estate should steer clear of, and provide you with smarter alternatives to ensure you look as competent and professional as you are.

Ready to up your style game? Let's get started! 

1. The "Casual Friday" Everyday Look 

While casual dress codes are becoming more common, there’s a fine line between casual and careless. Showing up in jeans and a wrinkled t-shirt might work for a tech startup, but in real estate, it can send the wrong message. You want to appear approachable yet professional, so save the ultra-relaxed wear for the weekends.

What to Avoid:

• Ripped jeans or shorts

• Flip-flops or overly casual footwear

• Hoodies or sporty attire

Smart Alternatives:

• Non-ripped jeans paired with a crisp, collared shirt

• Loafers or dress sneakers

• Lightweight, classy blazers

2. The "Wall Street Wannabe" Look 

There’s no doubt that a sharp suit can make a powerful statement. However, tailoring your attire to the occasion and client’s expectations is key. Overdressing can be just as off-putting as underdressing, making clients feel underprepared or uncomfortable.

What to Avoid:

• Suits that are too formal for the setting

• Bright, flashy ties

• Overly stiff formal wear

• Tacky color combinations (like those mannequin outfits you see in stores)

• Out-of-the-box shirt and tie combinations that don't complement your skin tone

Smart Alternatives:

• Well-tailored suits in classic colors (navy, black, charcoal, or dark grey)

• Subtle, tasteful accessories that complement your outfit

• A modern, clean hairstyle that says "trustworthy" not "trust fund"

• Classic color combinations that work well with your complexion

Pro Tip: Dress in accordance with your potential clientele. If you're dealing with high-end clients, it might be appropriate to wear a more expensive suit. But if you're selling in a lower-priced market, you don't want to look too fancy or out of place.

By following these guidelines, you'll strike the right balance between professional and approachable, making your clients feel comfortable while still respecting the business aspect of your relationship.

3.  The Wrong Accessories 

Accessories are the cherry on top of your professional attire, but choosing the wrong ones can distract from your expertise. Oversized watches, loud tie pins, or too much jewelry can turn a client’s focus away from the home you’re showing.

What to Avoid:

• Large, flashy watches or jewelry

• Novelty ties or socks that steal the spotlight

• Any accessory that jangles excessively as you move

• Giant necklaces or dog tags

• Backpacks that clash with your professional attire

Smart Alternatives:

• Classic watches

• Subtle, professional cufflinks

• Conservative, yet stylish belts

• Sleek tablet or slim portfolio for documents

Pro Tip:

Consider investing in a professional-looking satchel or briefcase to carry your documents and tech. It's a step up from a backpack and can complement your outfit nicely. If you prefer to use an iPad or tablet for presentations, it can look modern and sophisticated. Remember, whatever you choose should enhance your professional image, not detract from it.

Expressing Your Personality While Staying Professional

It's great to be authentic and express your personality through your style. After all, clients want to work with someone they like and trust. However, it's crucial to balance self-expression with professionalism.

Always ask yourself: "Is my attire an asset or a liability? Does it add to the trust factor and likability, or is it potentially repelling clients?"

Remember, in real estate, perception matters. Your goal is to present yourself in a way that makes clients feel comfortable and confident in your abilities.

4. Putting on the "Just Another Day at the Office" Ensemble 

Even if you’re not closing a million-dollar deal daily, dressing too casually can suggest that you aren't taking your role seriously. Clients expect their agents to reflect the significance of their investment.

What to Avoid:

• Sports attire or gym wear

• Anything with noticeable stains or wear and tear

• Overly simple or outdated pieces that fail to impress

• Wrinkled shirts or unpressed clothes

Smart Alternatives:

• Chinos with a well-pressed shirt

• Clean, polished shoes

• Neat, functional outerwear for property tours

• A smart-casual look that's always camera-ready

5. The "I Woke Up Like This" Grooming

While your real estate expertise is your greatest asset, don't underestimate the power of personal grooming. A well-groomed appearance speaks volumes about your attention to detail and professionalism.

What to Avoid:

• Unkempt or messy hair

• Poorly maintained facial hair

• Visible dandruff or excessive hair product

• Neglected personal hygiene

Smart Grooming Practices:

• Regular haircuts and styling

• Well-maintained facial hair (clean-shaven or neatly trimmed beard)

• Clean and trimmed nails

• Fresh breath and subtle cologne (if any)

• Pay attention to often-overlooked areas like nose and ear hair. These small details can make a big difference in your overall appearance.

6. Ignoring the Fit Factor 

A good fit transcends fashion trends. Wearing clothes that don’t fit properly—whether they’re too tight or too loose—can make even high-quality garments look sloppy. Remember, your clothing fit is a subtle yet powerful message about your attention to detail.

In the world of men's fashion, particularly with suits, there's often a subtle comparison going on. A well-fitted suit can speak volumes about your professionalism and attention to detail. It's not about the price tag, but about how well it fits and how confident you feel in it.

What to Avoid:

• Ill-fitting suits that haven’t been tailored

• Shirts that billow or trousers that drag

• Jackets or blazers that restrict movement

Smart Alternatives:

• Custom or tailored suits that enhance your body shape

• Shirts and trousers that fit well, but allow comfortable movement

• Investing in a few adjustable pieces for changing body types

Pro Tip: Keep a backup outfit in your car. You never know when you might need to quickly transition from a casual showing to a formal client meeting. Even if you don't wear suits regularly, having at least one well-fitted, high-quality suit in your wardrobe is crucial. You'll need it for conferences, networking events, or meetings in formal business environments.

Bonus Tips:

• Office Days: If you're required to work in an office or attend team meetings, maintain a professional appearance even if you're not meeting clients. You never know when an impromptu client meeting might occur.

• Virtual Presence: Your online presentation is just as important as your in-person appearance. When doing Instagram lives, Facebook lives, or video calls, dress as if you're meeting clients face-to-face. A wrinkled shirt on a Zoom call is just as unprofessional as in person.

• Dress for the Unexpected: While there may be days when you're just doing paperwork, always be prepared to meet a client or jump on a video call. It's easier to maintain a consistent, professional image than to scramble to change at the last minute.

In case you’re running out of options on what to wear, I've put together a special fashion guide just for men in real estate. It's like having a personal stylist in your pocket! This guide is packed with cool ideas to make you look sharp and professional. It's about dressing in a way that makes your clients think, "Wow, this guy really knows his stuff!"

In closing, I want you to know that balance is key, whether in real estate or fashion. Striking the right chord with your wardrobe can build trust and confidence with your clients, making it easier for them to see you as the guardian of their new home investment. Dress thoughtfully, and your clients will notice. Keep in mind that it's about your professional prowess, and not just your fashion sense. In real estate, you're not just selling properties—you're selling yourself as a trustworthy, competent professional. Make sure your wardrobe helps tell that story!