Pictures are worth a thousand words, which is why most real estate ads have many. The success of classified advertising, which may only consist of a few lines of text and no accompanying photographs, is not the only reason homebuyers tour houses and attend open houses.

And the wording of the ads was spot on. Knowing the appropriate words to use in real estate advertising will help you write an ad that will make your listing stand out and sell your home. Create a list of the top advertising phrases that come to mind when you envision your home. Avoid analyzing them too deeply.

Take a look at your notes. Remove from your list of phrases used to sell the house that could be construed negatively. Substitute upbeat, attention-grabbing words with positive connotations for any downbeat, underwhelming language.

Don't go overboard when writing the headline for your classified ad, but do highlight your home's best features.

Create a Word Bank of Descriptive Terms for Your House

Initially, jot down a list of all the describing words and nouns that come to mind when you consider your home. The writing process works best when words and ideas are free to flow. Don't fret over the correct sequence or spelling just yet. Jot them down as they come to you. Don't forget about what people will see when they come to your house.

Don't Use Any Phrases That Sound Negative

Go through your list and strike out anything that could be construed as derogatory or deceptive. What you could have stated is

While pleasant, the size of your home or apartment is not small. Don't use the term "small home" unless you are selling something planned, constructed, and marketed as such Despite its potential coziness, a house can never be described as confined. When things get crowded, it's nearly impossible to make them comfortable unless you have a bottomless pit of cash to throw at expensive upgrades and expansions.

Much work will be needed to make the place livable, as implied by the phrase "outdated." The term "vintage" describes it far more accurately. Preserved historic properties are in high demand. The phrase "oversized" may seem appealing, but you should avoid using it unless your house is the largest in the area.

Property That Needs Work

Use the word "upside potential" only if you sell a property that needs work. The typical buyer cannot foresee growth and will seek a lower price. Condominiums and co-ops with a basement can be difficult to resell. Would you rather check out the cellar or the penthouse? The term "lower level" is more accurate.

You may think the phrase "ugly but cute" is smart, but potential customers will likely see the "ugly" half of the Description. Replace the carpeting if it's in bad shape. Throw off the old-fashioned notion that purchasers prefer to select their carpeting. Actually, no.

Don't advertise the property as having "new paint," but do repaint if necessary. A freshly painted home raises suspicions among potential buyers. What exactly are you trying to conceal?

No one intentionally looks for a home with a roof that can leak and ruin their living room furnishings, but that's exactly what happened there. In most cases, a buyer should avoid a house with a damaged roof. If necessary, a new roof must be installed, and a roof certification must be provided.

Public Transportation Options

Although many city dwellers place a high value on proximity to public transportation options like trains and buses, other potential buyers may be put off by phrases like "on bus line" or "near train" since they conjure images of constant traffic and pollution. Homes near a train or subway station could sell for significantly less than comparable properties that are a few streets distant.

The phrase "public transportation is available" is a far superior alternative. A seller motivated to sell may be willing to take far less than the current market price. Avoid self-identification with that banner. Just say "all offers considered" instead.

Then, pick the ones that best capture the essence of your home from your revised selection. Use the specifics they provide, such as location, design, size, and updates, to craft a catchy headline.

Examine the ads of other real estate brokers to get a sense of how they describe homes in your area. Feel free to borrow the most applicable phrases, such as these: You should specify that you are open to any proposals here. You'll undoubtedly get a lowball offer, maybe even more, but so what? A lower price is always an option if one must be imposed. Provide an easy way to get in touch with you or your representative.