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Crack the Advertising Code of Portland Homes for Sale

by | Sep 30, 2013 | Buyer Tips

Real estate has a language of its own, and I don’t just mean phrases like closing costs, short sales and foreclosures. What I’m talking about are buzz words used to advertise Portland homes for sale.

When you understand the typical meaning of these code words, you’ll be better able to determine which Portland homes for sale are worth looking at in person.

  • Cozy: Look at this home if you don’t mind a home that is smaller than average.  Not just in square footage, but also in layout.
  • Rustic: If you want a home in the country (or one that looks like it should be in the country), take a look at this one.
  • Move in Ready: Usually means it’s vacant.  Can also mean that the seller took the time to prepare the Portland home for sale by fixing all of the little things upfront.
  • Starter: It’s smaller and less expensive than average homes in the neighborhood. If you’re a first time home buyer, this is the phrasing you want to look for.
  • Needs TLC: It probably needs more than just a little work. If you don’t mind that, check it out for yourself to see how much work it really needs.
  • Fixer – Needs more work than TLC, which probably means you’ll need to hire professional contractors to get at least some of the work done. If you like the home, have a home inspection to find all the problems and then negotiate for a good price.
  • Investor Special: Best use of this property is to rent it out.
  • Value is in  the Land: If there’s a house on the land, this means you’re probably wisest to tear down the home and rebuild.
  • I’m Beautiful Inside: The interior is nice, but something about the exterior is unappealing. It could be something easy to fix like old siding and cracked concrete or something impossible to remedy like being on a busy street.
  • Will Go Fast: This is a must-see home, if it fits your budget and needs.  Be prepared for multiple offers and a bidding war.

Once you get out there and see a few homes, you’ll start to pick up on the copywriting tricks agents use to lure you to their listings.  Some can be helpful and others are downright misleading.  Stay aware of your goals and don’t get too excited about a place until you’ve at least done a drive by.