Previously, I went through the benefits of using Craigslist for posting real estate listings, and I provided some points as to how to effectively use the service. Today, I will provide you with the six things to avoid when posting to Craigslist.
Image: Blmurch / Flickr
1. Don’t use misleading photos and descriptions. You might be tempted to post inaccurate photos and descriptions of your home, but anyone who is going to look at your home will quickly find out they aren’t correct. This will only anger them, and it will only waste your time showing your home to people that aren’t truly interested.
2. Don’t use language that makes you sound like a salesman. You may want to talk about “amenities,” but don’t use that word: just list the positive aspects of the house instead. Don’t try to sound smart or like a real estate agent – people go to Craigslist for a warts-and-all posting, and some people will be put off by overly slick postings.
3. Don’t be vague. Use precise information, such as square footage, number of windows and bathrooms, parking spaces, and all of the unique things about your home. The more details, the more interested people will be in your property. Try to use descriptive, positive language (ie, sun-filled, cozy, traditional, classic, modern, etc.). Vagueness in Craigslist ads usually means the seller is trying to hide something.
4. Don’t use over-the-top language. Try not to say, “stunning,” “awe-inspiring,” “once-in-a-lifetime” or “perfect.” Aside from the fact that no home is “perfect,” these adjectives are also vague.
5. Don’t use “unique” punctuation, slang or incomprehensible abbreviations. To distinguish your ad as a professional, serious offer rather than a crazy rant, make sure it is as polished as possible. Avoid excessive punctuation such as multiple exclamation points. If you are posting it yourself, get your friends or family to look it over first to make sure they understand everything you’ve written.
6. Don’t use lots of different fonts or very unique formatting. The more formatting you have, the less professional it will look. And if you use particularly original formatting, it might not even look right with some Internet browsers. At bottom, people are not going to be fooled into buying your home because of the formatting of your ad. They’ll buy it because of the information you provide.
Craigslist can be a potentially powerful tool in your real estate arsenal. Try to avoid some of these common mistakes and consider it the next time you are thinking of selling your home.
Nelson Goulart
Broker of Record with Signature Service GMAC Real Estate
www.ssgmac.ca
