Writing informative, interesting real estate descriptions isn’t always easy. Sometimes the house you just listed looks pretty much just like all the other houses on the block.
Put your powers of observation to work when writing real estate descriptions.
When that happens it’s time to put your powers of observation to work, along with your imagination, and find something good to say.
Unfortunately, some agents don’t take the time to do that. As a result their real estate descriptions are dull and uninspiring.
For instance: Recently one of my long-time clients wrote to tell me that he was listing a house that was just expiring off the market, and he wanted me to write the description. He gave me the address so I could look at the photos, and he sent me a copy of the description that was currently in use.
The description he sent said almost nothing about the house. it did mention the benefits of the homeowners association and the view. It also said this was a one-of-a-kind spot, in spite of an aerial photo that showed at least 20 homes that all look identical from above.
The first step toward an interesting real estate description…
After I read through the description and took a first look at the photographs, I sent my client a list of questions to answer. When you are the agent, ask yourself these questions.
Among those questions were things like “What do you think is the most important or attractive feature in this house?” “Is there anything that makes this house stand out from the other houses in the neighborhood?”
After I looked more closely at each of the photos I sent more questions, such as “Is that hardwood flooring in the living room and bedrooms?” and “What room am I seeing in photograph number 15?”
The current listing didn’t have a floor plan attached nor did it have a virtual tour, so I couldn’t tell much about the traffic flow within the house. Instead I found details such as built-in bookcases, a window seat, and a shaded brick patio. I also noted that the house was very light and airy feeling, and there seemed to be a little office nook off to the side of the kitchen.
Search for details that might be overlooked.
In reading the entire listing on line, I found that small pets are allowed. Since pets are important to many of us, I decided that was worth including in the property description. I also decided that the homeowners association benefits and a list of the amenities available at the community clubhouse were important.
My message to you is that when you take a listing, even if it looks uninteresting, you should take the time to look more closely. You may find details that someone reading the listing won’t notice at first glance, and it might make a difference in them deciding to take a personal tour.
When possible I think you should also ask the current homeowner why they purchased the house. Was there some specific feature or benefit that called to them and made them think “This is the one?” Go here to find even more good questions to ask. When you get good answers, work them in to your property description.
There really is no excuse for posting a “say nothing” real estate description. Take the time to really look, and you’ll find something interesting to say.
If you really can’t take the time to do that, get in touch. I’d love to help you make your listing shine online.
