Puffing in real estate can be defined as what?

Puffing in real estate is widely recognized as an exaggeration or promotional statement about a property that is not intended to be taken literally. It often involves giving a subjective opinion or a flattering description that enhances the appeal of a property without crossing the line into false representation. This practice is generally acceptable in marketing because it focuses on expressing a personal view rather than presenting factual misinformation.

For instance, phrases like "this home has the best views in the neighborhood" or "a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” are typical examples of puffing. They are used to entice buyers without making deceptive claims about the property’s actual attributes. Thus, understanding puffing as simply marketing highlights its role as part of a promotional strategy, as it allows real estate agents to create an attractive narrative around the properties they sell while staying within the bounds of legal advertising standards.

In contrast, terms like deceptive advertising, price manipulation, and false representation imply unethical practices that involve misleading potential buyers, which is not the case with puffing.