drive-by

Definition

A quick exterior assessment of a property from your vehicle, because sometimes you can tell from the street that 'charming fixer-upper' means 'condemned by next Tuesday.' It's the real estate version of swiping left.

Example Usage

I'll do a drive-by this afternoon to see if it's worth scheduling a showing, or if we're looking at a complete teardown situation.

Origin

Adapted from general automotive terminology, became standard real estate practice in the 1980s as agents became more mobile

Fun Fact

Many agents can accurately estimate a property's condition and price range within 10% just from a drive-by, using visual cues like roof condition, landscaping, and neighboring properties.

Source: Real estate agent colloquial terminology

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See “drive-by” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.

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