Expectation vs. Reality: How to Translate Popular Real Estate Listing Euphemisms

Scrolling through real estate listings can feel a lot like online dating: everything seems nice, but the over-the-top profiles make you wonder what’s fact and what’s fiction. Need some help translating realtor talk? Don’t worry! Here’s how to decode some of the most popular real estate listing euphemisms.

white and lavender bathroom with glass shower

HGTV Canada

1 / 18

They Say: “Bold Designer Colours”

What you’re thinking: a fresh, move-in ready paint job in the latest colour palette sounds like a serious win.

Getty Images

2 / 18

Translation: “Get Ready to Reno”

Real talk: space is limited in real estate listings, so if it’s calling out a paint job… there’s probably a reason.

HGTV Canada

3 / 18

They Say: “Lovingly Maintained”

What you’re thinking: it’s probably in beautiful condition, with thoughtful updates thanks to home-proud original owners.

1970s-era living room with floral couch and wood-panel walls

Getty Images

4 / 18

Translation: “It’s Trapped in the Past”

Real talk: if you’re looking for a time warp that doesn’t require a time machine, you’re all set – because these owners haven’t changed a thing in half a century. Authentic original shag carpeting, anyone?

patio with black wicker couches and television

HGTV Canada

5 / 18

They Say: “Great Indoor/Outdoor Flow”

What you’re thinking: it makes sense to optimize outdoor living space, so a thoughtful indoor/outdoor layout can be a huge plus.

couch and living room furniture in forest

Getty Images

6 / 18

Translation: “It’s So Cramped, You’ll Have to Live Outside”

Real talk: beware of excessive callouts to outdoor spaces – they might be a sign that someone is overcompensating for what’s under the roof.

white room with skylights and grey couch

Outsite Co/Unsplash

7 / 18

They Say: “It Has Great Bones”

What you’re thinking: it’s sturdy, stable and will last forever.

Getty Images

8 / 18

Translation: “It Has Walls”

Real talk: unless you’ve got a craving for some major renos, buyer beware of clever language disguising fixer-uppers that are beyond saving. Good bones usually mean that the house lacks the meat to really impress you.

beige room with wood cabinets and branch light fixture

Unsplash/Daniil Silantev

9 / 18

They Say: “So Shabby Chic”

What you’re thinking: boho style can be beautiful and have some serious charm.

shabby room with floral wallpaper and debris

Getty Images

10 / 18

Translation: “So Shabby”

Real talk: unfortunately, most of these listings are much more shabby than they are chic.

eclectic kitchen with red walls and chairs

HGTV Canada

11 / 18

They Say: “Enjoy the Eclectic Vibes”

What you’re thinking: there’s nothing wrong with a touch of quirk or a pop of bold colour.

Getty Images

12 / 18

Translation: “Totally Bizarre”

Real talk: there’s definitely a point where whimsy meets weird.

Small living room with white couch and lots of green plants

Lauren Kolyn

13 / 18

They Say: “Cozy and Quaint”

What you’re thinking: smart small-space living is trendy and cool.

Getty Images

14 / 18

Translation: “Cramped and Claustrophobic”

Real talk: there’s a difference between tiny and just plain terrible. When real estate listings focus too much on the coziness of a home, it could be a red flag for a confining floor plan and cluttered feel.

rustic wood kitchen with barn door and centre island

HGTV Canada

15 / 18

They Say: “Rustic Charm”

What you’re thinking: rustic charm means cozy, comfy and full of charisma. Country-chic details? Check. Tons of natural wood? Check. Barn doors? Probably.