Working in the real estate industry every day, we come across some very familiar, if not overused, terms on a daily basis. Here is some real estate jargon that, quite frankly, has overstayed its welcome and needs to be retired.
At one time, these phrases probably sounded cool, but now they are usually a sign that the agent is behind the times, or just too lazy to put effort into their listing descriptions (usually the latter). Here are some of the most common phrases and what they REALLY mean.
9 Overused, Abused, and Lazy Real Estate Terms
1. “Seller says sell”
Well I suppose that’s a whole lot better than hearing a seller say “Don’t sell!” right?
2. “Cozy”
Just call it what it really is…itty bitty! Cozy is usually a code word for “cracker jack box.”
3. “Boasts”
The kitchen boasts this, the master suite boasts that…At some point, you can only boast so much, and then it becomes bragging.
4. “Motivated Seller”
Well, if that’s the case, let’s see how motivated you really are Mr. & Mrs. Seller! *presents low-ball offer*
5. “Price to sell”
Whew, for a minute I was worried you had priced it to not sell. Funny how many times these end up being the same sellers that overprice their home so it just sits on the market.
6. “Too much to list”
C’mon, give it to me straight…don’t be shy! After all, I am about to spend a big chunk of money. It would be nice to know everything that is included.
7. “ALL CAPS”
Sorry to break the news, but you’re not going to convince us to purchase your home because you SHOUTED at us about how great it is. UPDATED KITCHEN BOASTING NEW GRANITE COUNTERTOPS. Not attractive.
8. “Updated”
Okay, lets set the record straight here. “Updated” does not mean it was updated 20 years ago! Let’s try to keep it within the last half-decade, please!
9. “Needs a little TLC”
Just a little tender loving care, huh? I’m pretty sure having to gut the entire kitchen and bathroom would require more than just a lil loving’…more like Tons of Loose Cash.
Now that you’re informed on what these terms really mean, you can ask the right questions when you come across them when looking for a home to buy. And if you’re selling, make sure to work with a company that doesn’t use these outdated terms that have little value these days.
