law

puffing

Exaggerated or subjective statements of opinion about a property that a reasonable person would not rely on as fact, such as calling a home the best on the block or having an amazing view. Puffing is generally not considered fraud. However, statements of measurable fact, such as square footage or a new roof, must be accurate, and licensees should be cautious because the line can blur.

Exam tip
Puffing is opinion; misrepresentation is a false statement of fact. If the statement can be verified or measured, it is not mere puffing.
Example
An agent saying a kitchen is gorgeous is puffing; saying the furnace is two years old when it is twenty is misrepresentation.

Related terms & state variants

Sources

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Last verified: 2026-10-23