Real Estate Lingo

While real estate is expensive, so is advertising space. Here's a list of common abbreviations and lingo that you'll com across if you're searching in the papers:

dk -- deck
expansion pot'l -- Expansion potential means that there's extra space on the lot, or there's the possibility of adding a room/upper level (subject to local zoning restrictions).
fab pentrm -- fabulous pent room
FDR -- formal dining room (not to be confused with the former president, or the highway in New York).
assum. fin. -- assumable financing
fixture -- anything of value that is permanently attached to or a part of real property. (Real estate is legally called "real property," while movables are called "personal property.") Examples of fixtures include installed wall-to-wall carpeting, light fixtures, window coverings, landscaping and so on. Fixtures are a frequent subject of buyer and seller disputes. When in doubt, get it in writing.
frplc, fplc, FP -- fireplace
gar -- garage (garden is usually abbreviated as "gard.")
grmet kit -- gourmet kitchen
HDW, HWF, Hdwd -- hardwood floors
hi ceils -- high ceilings
in-law potential -- Don't worry, it's not what it sounds like. This refers to the potential for a separate apartment (subject to local zoning restrictions)- not necessarily meant for your spouse's parent.

Here are a few words that should send up red flags:

cosy: This means cramped. If you suffer from claustrophobia, ads with the terms "intimate"
or "efficient" are also not for you. Those with big furniture who do not want to sell it or
cram it into your cosy space like a game of Tetris are also advised against answering ads
with such lingo.
outdoor space: Don't get your hopes up before confirming that the outdoor space does not
actually double as a fire escape.
original retro: A nice way of saying that the shag carpet hasn't been changed since the 70's.