Erica Christoffer

By Erica Christoffer

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) released data back in 2011 that said members put an average of 3,300 miles on their cars annually from business-related driving. That number has likely risen in the past eight years. According to AAA, Americans are now in their cars 20 minutes longer each week than they were just four years ago, adding about 220 miles to their vehicles per week.

Since you spend a significant amount of time in your car driving to preview properties or chauffeuring clients to showings, then you want to do it in a car that’s both functional and efficient as well as comfortable and attractive.

If you’re in the market for a vehicle that won’t just get you from point A to point B, but also serve as a tool for your real estate business, then consider the options REALTOR Benefits® Program partner FCA US LLC (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) has available.

Your Member Benefit

Now, I’ve got good news: NAR members and eligible  families qualify for a $500 cash allowance to use toward the purchase or lease of select Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep_®, Ram, or FIAT® models (view the benefit instructions prior to visiting your local dealer).

Photo courtesy of FCA US LLC.

Have you been driving down the road and a newer Jeep Wrangler catches your eye? It’s been happening to me a lot lately. It’s because they don’t look like most other cars on the road. They’re rugged yet stylish—which may sound like a cliché, but it’s true. It’s the epitome of the Wrangler.

Well, I’ve got even more good news. For the first time ever, NAR members are getting that same exclusive deal on 2019 Jeep_® Wrangler (2.0L turbo engine only), which includes that $500 cash allowance, plus, an exclusive two-year vehicle maintenance plan contract from Mopar® Vehicle Protection with purchase or lease. That means you won’t have to worry about things like oil changes, tires (they’ll repair or replace all four), and car rental reimbursement if your vehicle needs work at a dealership. The value of all these discounts and services is about $1,000, a savings equal the value of your NAR membership dues for more than six years. Tip: Negotiate your best price before mentioning the $500 cash allowance.

Features That Help Your Business

Ideally, you want a vehicle that will help you work more effectively (e.g. that “tool” in your toolbox). With the Wrangler, you can synch your phone via Bluetooth® connectivity for hands-free calling all the time. Use the integrated voice command system or navigate with the Jeep Wrangler’s 8.4-inch intuitive touchscreen, which also offers Apple CarPlay® support and Android Auto™ integration, as well as a SiriusXM® All Access Package. The Wrangler is also equipped with a high-powered 4G Wi-Fi hotspot with a 50-foot signal radius, so you can work remotely almost anywhere.

Get this—cleaning is also easier with the Wrangler because it has a removable carpet and a “wash out” interior with one-way floor drain valves. Clients are going to be impressed with how clean you keep your car.

The optional 4×4 system will help you get through severe weather or rough terrain safely. You won’t have to worry about getting stuck on rural roads. Its high air intake design, sealed electronic connections, and moisture-resistant body allow drivers to cross shallow creeks, streams, and areas with rainstorm water accumulation. The Wrangler also has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs., and fuel efficiency of 23 MPG city and 25 MPG highway.

You probably don’t want to think about winter right now, but you have to admit that heated seats and steering wheel along with heated power exterior mirrors sound like lifesavers when the temperature drops.

Visit NAR.realtor/RealtorBenefits/FCA to learn more, and keep in mind that your $500 member benefit can be combined with most other deals, offers, or incentives currently available.

The views and opinions expressed in this piece do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the National Association of REALTORS®. Consumers should perform their own due diligence when selecting any products or services.

Erica Christoffer is a contributing editor for REALTOR® Magazine and manager of the YPN Lounge. Connect with her at echristoffer@realtors.org.