The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) allows real estate agents to market property listings to other agents through a centralized database. But the MLS comes loaded with industry jargon and abbreviations that can seem confusing to the average home buyer or seller. Learning some of the most common MLS shorthand can help you accurately decode listings and make informed decisions.
MLS listings prominently feature bedroom and bathroom counts, usually abbreviated like “4BR/2.5BA.” It indicates 4 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms plus a half bathroom. Granite countertops are shortened to “Granite,” while “SS Appl” means stainless steel appliances. “Open flrplan” describes an open concept main living space. These shorthand phrases efficiently summarize key home features. To describe home conditions, listings may say “Updates underway” or “As-is.” The first means renovations are in progress, while the latter indicates the seller will not make repairs. “Handyman Special” signals fixer-upper needing DIY skills. Phrases like “New roof 2018” disclose recent system upgrades.
Location descriptors paint a quick picture of the setting: “Cul-de-sac” denotes a quiet dead-end street while “Walk to park” highlights proximity to amenities. “Corner lot” and “Mtn. views” detail exterior perks. This shorthand summarizes a home’s context and neighborhood. Listing remarks provide showing and tour instructions to agents like “Lockbox on-site” or “Tenant occupied.” This shorthand facilitates showings by clarifying access and occupancy. Terms like “Cash only” and “Price improvement” hint at deal dynamics around cost and financing. The specialized lingo of MLS listings acts like a secret code at first glance. But learning the most common shorthand will help buyers and sellers accurately decode listings when searching for a home.
The real estate listing site aims to provide transparency, but also utilizes industry terms and shortcuts. As a buyer or seller, decoding MLS listing details takes some insider knowledge. Focus on learning the most common abbreviations to help you read between the lines.
For example, listing photos showcase home features, but may still use shorthand in captions: “Chef’s kitchen w/Granite & SS Appl.” Granite indicates granite countertops while SS Appl means stainless steel appliances – shorthand for a high-end kitchen. Location descriptors also use strategic shorthand: “Blocks to Downtown” translates to walking distance to the downtown area. “Biking distance to park” underscores proximity to outdoor amenities. These phrases paint a quick picture of lifestyle conveniences.
When viewing property history in the MLS, you may see “Orig LP: $500K” meaning the original list price when first listed was $500,000. “LP Reduced from $450K to $425K” indicates the list price was recently dropped $25k. This shorthand tracks listing changes. Pay attention to remarks like “18 showings in first 2 days!” which convey buyer interest and demand seller wants quick close” or “Bank Owned” signal potential motivation. This shorthand hints at deal dynamics. With the right MLS decoding skills, you can learn to read between the lines like a true insider. Leverage online resources to build knowledge of common MLS terms. Then use your deduction skills to translate listings and negotiate smartly.