Time out

We're taking a break from our conventional blogging format today, because Mondays are bad enough as it is without having to hear any negative real estate-related news.

Instead, let's play a game: See if you can figure out which of the following five listing descriptions is the highest-priced property. All properties are located in South Orange County. Some of the descriptions are decently written, while others...others could have used some editing (hacking).

Hint: Here are the asking prices of the properties: $711,000; $729,000; $759,500; $899,000; $1,049,990.

Click on the MLS number after each description to go to the Redfin listing to check to see if you were right, or to read more about the property. Or, simply take a guess and scroll down to the bottom, beneath the picture, for the answer.

LISTING 1: This is going to be a surprise, pergo floors, corian counter, custom mirrors,built in patio to form a big room overlooking the ocean. The views are truly panoramic of the ocean, islands,golf course, sky, even night lights. Large master bedroom has views from the bed. With the patio enclosed it is 1962 sq.Ft. My pictures do not show the view, will keep working on it.Lots of mirrors and wall paper. S499274

LISTING 2: Gorgeous emotional home!!!!!!!!! Upgraded!!!!!!! From the moment you enter through the high end wooden entry doors, you will recognize this is an exceptional one! Slate flooring,kitchen has granite slab counters,refinished cabinetry,stainless appliances, shutters throughout,master bath is out of a design magazine with a pedestal tub,travertine oversized master shower, ceiling fans,upgraded light fixtures, the list goes on!!!! Must see !!!!!!!!!!! S505572

LISTING 3: Impecable! Unbelievable! Granite/stone full backsplash/ss appliances/3' dark distressed wood floors throughout/crown moulding/encased windows/berber carpet/designer paint/brazilian slate courtyard patio/gold nugget slate porch/chandeliers/closed circuit security cameras/security system/garage built-in cabinets S505671

LISTING 4: Stunning home remodeled w/ $125k in the finest upgrades. Lr flowing w/ rich bella wood floors glistening from luminous windows, accented by custom paint & baseboards, & complemented w/ exquisite custom fireplace. Gourmet kitchen featuring granite counters, new top-of-the-line appliances, & custom cabinetry. Luxurious master suite offers a serene ocean view, walk-in closet, lavish bath & pleasing retreat w/ access to private balcony. Spacious viewing deck ideal to enjoy blue water ocean views! S491951

LISTING 5: No showings til after labor day 3) description: last opportunity to take advantage of living in a highly sought after community at summer end price! If you've seen this home before, come back and bring your friends and family to experience this immaculately well taken care of executive home. Featuring: soaring cathedral ceiling, custom crown molding, custom designer neutral colors, large oversize bonus room, professionally landscaped, upgraded stone & stucco facade. M106173

The answer is Listing 5 (shown in the photo above). Here are the properties, in order from least to most expensive, with their asking prices: LISTING 3 - $711,000; LISTING 1 - $729,000; LISTING 4 - $759,500; LISTING 2 - $899,000; LISTING 5 - $1,049,990

FYI, Listing 5 has been on Redfin for 152 days. Original asking price was $1,140,000. Last sale: $817,000 in June, 2004.

The point here is that a high price tag doesn't necessarily equal a professionally written description.