Real estate agents alter work habits to cope with rising gas prices

Some real estate agents are coping with $4-a-gallon gas by changing their driving routines and scrutinizing prospective clients to make sure they're serious about buying or selling.

(Biz Journals) -- The strategies help control costs for agents who spend a lot of time behind the wheel but don't get reimbursed for mileage because they are sole proprietors or work as independent contractors.

"I do so much business that my heart does palpitations when I fill my tank and it costs $60," said Faye Rispoli, who logs about 25,000 miles a year on her Saab.

"The only thing I've changed is I'm lumping my appointments together," said Rispoli, who has been an agent for almost 37 years. "I'm trying to be a little smarter about where I'm booking and how many people are in the same area."