Metaphorical, Literal Definition #1 — at least at the end(?) of a long, snowy Minnesota winter — is easy: “Watch your back!” literally means, “Be careful you don’t strain your back [while shoveling].” The comment is usually offered solicitously, often by a loved one; it’s sometimes preceded by “better” or “be sure to” (“You’re going to...Read More
Definition, Please Realtors use the term “Chef’s Kitchen” all the time (sometimes further embellished with the adjective, “Gourmet” ” as in, “Gourmet Chef’s Kitchen”). But, after 17-plus years selling homes, I’m still not sure that I have a good definition, except that: a) it’s big; and b) it’s full of high-end features and appliances. That...Read More
Reticent Scandinavians Loathe to Give Offense Thanks to Senator Amy Klobuchar’s recently announced Presidential campaign — and by now, her very well-documented “bad boss” rep — the national media is having a field day with “Minnesota Nice.” Unfortunately, they’re getting it completely, even spectacularly, wrong. Here’s just one example: “‘Minnesota Nice’ is a form of...Read More
I’ve got a hunch how ” at least in some people’s minds ” “tray” ceiling became “trey”: “très” is French for “very” (as in “very beautiful”). From there, it’s just a small step (and single letter) to “trey.” Of course, that’s also how the word sounds phonetically. However, the correct adjective for a recessed ceiling...Read More
Not Measuring Up? There’s no harm in touting that a home has an especially nice backyard, sits on a large or impressive piece of land, etc. However, the term “double lot” ” at least to me ” has a specific, defined meaning. Namely, it’s a least twice the size of a standard city lot. In...Read More
Question #2: Is That Different Than “Large?” “Original hardwood floors have just been re-done, four oversize bedrooms, tremendous woodwork & period fixtures.” —”Public Remarks,” MLS. “Oversized” is one of those imprecise adjectives that you occasionally run into in real estate: they certainly sound good, but, on closer inspection, don’t convey much if any information. Sort...Read More
