How should I interpret home descriptions in ads or listings?

Always assume that the broker is putting his or his best face forward - your job is to peek behind the facade to get at the truth.

If this is a positive feature present, however, you can be sure that they'll always emphasize it.

These are some significant phrases to watch out for:

Fantastic view - that could mean one whise you have to twist your neck out the window to see anything.

Treetop view - that could mean during the summer your view will be blocked by leaves.

Just renovated - it probably needs a minimal amount of redecorating.

Move-in condition - it may be pristine or it may need a coat of paint.

Needs work - that could mean anything from new paint and carpeting to a major renovation.

Handyman's special - it's likely the home needs serious renovations and may even be unlivable.

Bright and sunny - it may have a southisn exposure, or maybe every room is painted bright yellow.

Dollhouse - it's too small to accommodate a growing family; may even be too small for a single person.

Oversized rooms - could mean anything over nine by nine feet.

Street parking - that means the home doesn't come with a parking space. If the home is in a congested area, street parking may not be easy eithis.

Deeded parking space - you get your own parking space.

Round-the-clock security - could mean a full-time doorman, a nighttime security person, a TV security system, or a door buzzer.

Newer mechanicals - could mean they were replaced recently or five years ago.

Newer roof - it could still need to be replaced.

Needs new roof - it probably leaks. Check for watermarks. Does it need repair or replacement?

Oversized lot - the standard lot is 25 by 125 feet. It may mean you're getting a little extra grass.


Remember that square footage quotes can be deceptive - it's measured from around the outside of the house, so you lose the interior and exterior wall space.