Decoding Property Listing Jargon
Built-up, land area, psf, GRR, fully-fitted — a plain-English glossary so no listing can confuse you again.
Property ads are full of shorthand, and the shorthand hides real money. Here is what the common terms actually mean — and where they can mislead.
Size & price terms
| Term | What it means |
|---|---|
| Built-up area | Internal floor area of the unit (what you live in) |
| Land area | The plot size for landed homes; not shown for condos |
| psf (per sq ft) | Price ÷ built-up — the fairest way to compare value |
| Efficiency / nett area | Usable area after walls and voids |
| Maintenance / sq ft | Monthly fee charged per built-up sq ft (condos) |
Fittings & condition
- Bare unit — empty shell; you do flooring, kitchen, everything.
- Partially furnished — usually aircon, water heater, some wardrobes/kitchen cabinets.
- Fully furnished / fully fitted — move-in ready with kitchen, wardrobes and often appliances.
- Renovated — previous owner upgraded; check quality, not just the word.
Investment & project terms
- GRR (Guaranteed Rental Return) — developer promises a fixed % return for a period; check it is not just priced into a higher purchase price.
- Leaseback — you buy, the operator rents it back from you, common in serviced suites.
- Dual key — one unit, two separate entrances; live in one, rent the other.
- Freehold / leasehold — the land title type (see our dedicated guide).
Saw a listing you cannot decode?
Send me the ad and I will translate every term and tell you whether the psf and fees actually make it a good deal. I am Louis Koh, over a decade in Johor Bahru property.
Frequently asked questions
What does built-up area mean?
The internal floor area of the home — the space you actually live in. For condos this is the key size figure; landed homes also quote a separate land area.
What is psf in property?
Price per square foot — the price divided by the built-up area. It is the fairest way to compare the value of different units and projects.
Is a guaranteed rental return (GRR) a good thing?
It can be, but check whether the guarantee is simply priced into a higher purchase price, and what happens after the guaranteed period ends.
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