Realtor Descriptions are Not What They Seem
Have you ever read the MLS property descriptions? Most will make you chuckle. The other day I was browsing for a customer through the MLS descriptions for a properties in Gilbert and Mesa AZ. I saw a few pictures
of what looked like some really attractive homes. When I read the description, I immediately thought, "perfect!" I know better! You can never take what is described as the whole truth. That's why Realtor's call it "Puffing". Puffing is the method by which Realtors can legally describe a property, which to everyone else, is not really what you will see. To a Realtor, it is marketing. It is more of "imagine this" vs reality. This is like looking at a catalog that you received in the mail, and ordering the product because of the picture and description. When the product is delivered to you, you immediatley look for the return label!
What's important in Real Estate from a buyers perspective is that you get past what Realtor's write about properties. A seller's Realtors goal is to get you in the door. Your Realtor's goal is to tell you what the property "could be" vs what you see. The orange paint in the bedroom, well... maybe the nearby hardware store could help you change that! As long as the room size is what you need! What about the ceramic tile that was painted red in one home? Really? The previous owner thought that was attractive? Yes they did! Now you have the ability to get your contractor to remove it. Picture this room with a beautiful new rug! Hurry... picture it quick. How about the beautiful mountain view? Yes, in Arizona, everyone wants a view. In many cases, for $150,000, it will be from a distance.
Buying a home is about seeing through what is there and looking at the potential. I would always tell my clients what could be! The good news is, unlike a catalog product, you don't have to even order until you see the product first. The great thing is that if you are a little creative, you can change a bargain home into your home with just a few dollars. What I forgot to mention is that properties are still cheap. Cheap properties mean you can get more for your money...but you must be a little creative!
Check out the properties in the East Valley in Arizona. They will never be priced better.
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