Like most businesses, real estate has its own language. As a realtor, I read listings carefully and use my experience and intuition to interpret what my colleagues are really saying.
I also create MLS listings to communicate messages—subtly and more directly. When I write the copy for a listing, I try to avoid hyperbole. I’d rather have a potential buyer be pleasantly delighted on the upside than disappointed or feeling misled.
Here’s the “411” on some of the most common open-to-interpretation real estate listings I’m seeing these days:
- Diamond in the rough; original owner; lovingly maintained. All code for the house needs work. As a selling agent, I typically signal if a property needs lots of work, so buyers have few surprises.
- Parlor level. Often a more glamorous term for basement level.
- Great commuter location. Might mean the property has great access to transit and downtown. Could also be on a highway or back up to public transportation.
- Seller is flexible. Usually indicates the seller is exceptionally eager to sell!
- Seller requires 48-hour notice. Seller and/or agent could be difficult to work with.
- Seller will leave the swing set, pool table, and pull-out couch as “gifts” to new owner. There’s junk on the property that the seller doesn’t want to remove!
Don’t see a term you’ve always been curious about? Email or DM me. I’m happy to translate!
