Not very long ago, whenever I read newspaper ads advertising houses for sale, it felt like reading in different language. Those advertisements have so many abbreviations – no wonder a person that is new to real estate (especially one of Australian newcomers) needs a dictionary to understand it.

Some of those short-hand signs I figured out on my own, others were explained to me and there were few no one but real estate agent could understand. Anyway, here is what I’ve learned – I hope it helps you.

  • OFP – Open Fire Place
  • ROW – Right Of Way, meaning not driveway but some kind of access to the house
  • OSP – Off street parking, meaning in the driveway or garage
  • BR - Bedroom
  • Bthrm - Bathroom
  • Ensuite – Bathroom inside the master bedroom
  • LUG – Lock Up Garage
  • Robes - Wardrobes
  • BIR – Built In Robes (Wardrobes)
  • WIR – Walk In Robes, meaning a room for clothes storage
  • C’yard or Courtyard (paved) – a rear yard, usually paved with concrete
  • Open-plan – No walls
  • Lnge - Lounge
  • d/htng – Ducted heating
  • STCA – Subject to council approval, meaning that plans of whatever you are planning to build. need to get approval of council office first
  • S/S - stainless steel (usually refers to kitchen appliances
  • Pol. Floors – polished floor boards

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