Real estate agents, yes, we are a funny bunch! Our creativity levels range from complete plagiarism to the absolute head-scratcher. Most of us real estate agents did not go to school for marketing or advertising. Attempting to make a compelling and memorable offer like the Geico Caveman is usually not at the forefront of our marketing efforts when we’re trying to sell a home. And I don’t recall any advertising courses or segments being offered while I was studying to get my real estate license. Ultimately,we just want to sell the house. How much creativity does that actually require? 4 years ago, probably not much, but these days “seasonal water views” or “your client will love it” is just not cutting it.
I loo
k at dozens of listings on a daily basis and I’m always stumped with what some agents write on their listings. I could only imagine what buyers are thinking when they’re reading the description on some of these homes. I have to admit, I too have been a victim of un-creativity. Perhaps I should stop!
I compiled a list of the most popular (and by popular I mean played-out) descriptions used by real estate agents to attract the attention of would-be buyers. (with my commentaries, of course) Whether or not they actually work is to be determined. If you’re a buyer please let me know if these actually work on you.
Priced To sell – If it’s priced to sell, why has the house been on the market for 230 days?
Priced for a quick sale — If it’s still for sale after 3 months, are you going to change the description to say ‘Priced for a slow sale” instead?
Motivated seller — If your seller is not motivated, why are they listing their home for sale; so people can get decorating ideas?
Price negotiable — Does the seller know the agent disclosed the fact that the seller is willing to lower their price?
24 Hour notice to show — In this market, where demand is lower than normal, shouldn’t the seller provide every possible opportunity to sell the home. Chances are the home will not be shown to ALL potential buyers.
Taxes do not include STAR — But the taxes are at $32,000 a year. Is $1,200 deduction really going to make a difference? That’s like saying you get 5 cents off on your next gas purchase when you’re trying to sell a Ferrari.
Within Walking Distance to ( _____ ) — That’s a bit presumptuous. What happens if that one buyer is in a wheelchair? How will he/she get there?
Recently Updated — Really? How do you define recently? The last time the kitchen was updated gas was $1.89/gallon?
All reasonable offers considered or Bring all offers – I will trade my condo and pay you an additional $200,000 for your house. Would that be considered reasonable?
Don’t miss this one –Why not? Tell me why it’s so special.
Your buyer will love it — How do you know what my buyer is looking for?
One of a kind — Are you sure? I just came from a colonial that looks exactly like it and it was listed for $50,000 less. PS, the home is in a newer development–they all look the same.
Looking for that special buyer — in fact, any buyer will do. The only requirement is that they be qualified.
a listing with one picture — and the picture was taken at night from the car. What’s wrong with the inside of the house? Very suspicious!
Possible Short Sale — It is or it isn’t. Which one is it? You might as well change the description to “Possible Foreclosure”.
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Loved this artcile. I am a potential buyer and I read all of this in listings and response in my mind is similar to your comments. And this is not just what selected few realtor s are writting but majority of them!