What do the most overused words in real estate really mean?

Real estate agents can make even the most unattractive properties sound tempting, by using buzzwords which often hide the real meaning. So how can you decode classifieds to find out what a property is actually like?

Lamudi has translated 10 of the most overused buzzwords in the real estate industry, to help house-hunters to recognize when agents are exaggerating.

1. "Quaint"

If a property listing describes the house or apartment as ‘quaint,’ the chances are high that in reality it is small. If the size of the house is not specified in the advertisement, you can be sure that the quaint property is not very spacious.

2. "Near transport"

Whilst it’s important for a house to be well-located, with transport links not too far away, near transport can often be interpreted as noisy. More specific details about the distance from train tracks or busy main roads will reassure house-hunters.

3. "Private"

Privacy is an important feature, however so are local amenities. Before you get excited at the prospect of your own space, check how far the property is from the nearest supermarkets, schools, and transport connections.

4. "Has great potential"

Translated, this means that with a lot of time and money, this could one day be your dream home. However, if you are not willing to put effort into developing the property, it will remain run-down and less than desirable.

5. "Charming"

Often used alongside quaint, charming is often used for an old or small property. Ensure that you look careful at the pictures on the listing, and arrange a viewing to see for yourself just how old or dilapidated the property really is.

6. "Not to be missed"

If a property is listed as not to be missed, it is likely that the owner is having trouble selling and is trying to get rid of the property in a hurry. Using such persuasive language has immediate connotations of desperation and urgency.

7. "Open-plan"

Whilst properties described in this way can be luxurious, high-end real estate, agents often describe cramped studio apartments as open-plan. Be prepared for the kitchen, living room, bedroom, and even sometimes bathroom, to all be squashed into one room.

8. "Original condition"

If the floors of a property are described as being in their original condition, chances are that they are actually in a less-than-desirable condition, and will need to be renovated before the house can be lived in.

9. "State-of-the-art"

This buzzword is regularly exaggerating the grandeur of facilities. More often than not, a state-of-the-art bathroom, for example, is just a functioning toilet and shower room. If a property is modern, with the newest appliances and contemporary decor, this should be made clear in a detailed listing.

10. "Within walking distance"

Within walking distance fails to state exactly how far away from a property certain amenities are located, and often the true distance is much further than you think. Furthermore, the time it takes to walk a distance varies per person. If the length of space between the two points is short, the listing will specify the exact amount of time necessary to travel from one to the other.