How to Read a Home Listing: 6 Things to Check
Real Estate, Home Buying, Listings
How Do I Read a Home Listing Like a Pro?
Learn how to look beyond glossy photos and understand the key details in an online home listing so you can make smarter decisions and better use your agent’s expertise.
How do I read a home listing? Look past the photos. Check the price history, days on market, what is included, and the fine print in the remarks.
An online listing tells you a lot, if you know where to look. Here are six things to check.
The Mike Webb Team (Mike and Claudia Webb, RE/MAX Allegiance) helps homeowners in Arlington, Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC get their homes ready to sell and sold.
Six things to check
Price history. Has the price changed? A cut can mean the seller adjusted to the market. It can also mean the first price was high.
Days on market. A new listing is different from one that has been up for weeks. Ask why.
Photos. Look at every room and the outside. If a room is missing from the photos, ask to see it.
Remarks. The description may mention things like "as-is," "needs updating," or showing rules.
Fees. For condos and some townhouses, check the monthly fee and what it covers. Ask for the rules too.
Size and lot. Square footage and lot size can come from different sources. Ask your agent to confirm.
Reviewing details on paper and screen helps you spot gaps and questions.
What if a listing leaves things out?
Ask. Your agent can call the listing agent and look up the history. Not every detail is in the listing.
Can I trust the photos?
Photos show a home in its most flattering light. Wide lenses can make rooms look larger. Plan to see the home in person and bring questions.
What about online estimates?
Online and preliminary estimates are starting points. A property's potential market value depends on its condition, location, features, competition, market conditions, and other factors.
FAQ
Should I tour a home that has been listed a long time?
Sometimes. Ask us about the history first.
What does "price per square foot" tell me?
Only a little. Two homes with the same number can differ in condition, location, and lot.
Can you send me listings that match?
Yes. Call or text us and we will set up a search.
Call or text The Mike Webb Team at 703-350-3884 or visit claudiawebb.com.
The Mike Webb Team, RE/MAX Allegiance. Arlington, Virginia. Equal Housing Opportunity.
