What does 'puffing' mean in the context of real estate transactions?

In the context of real estate transactions, 'puffing' refers to the making of exaggerated claims about a property in order to stimulate interest and facilitate its sale. This practice typically involves statements that are subjective and promotional in nature rather than factual or substantive, such as describing a property as "the best in the neighborhood" or "a dream home." These statements are generally recognized in the industry as sales tactics and do not carry the same weight as legally binding representations.

Understanding puffing is essential for both buyers and sellers, as it highlights the difference between verifiable facts and persuasive language used in marketing. This differentiation helps to ensure that all parties are aware of the difference between salesmanship and actual property conditions, which is crucial for making informed decisions during a transaction. Recognizing puffing can also protect consumers from potential misrepresentation claims, as the law typically does not hold sellers accountable for these types of exaggerated statements.