No matter how diligent you are when it comes to writing website content, we’re all human and grammar mistakes are bound to happen. If any of the errors listed below make their way to your homebuilding website, your homebuyer may think your attention to detail is lacking and eliminate you—and you definitely don’t want that!
Is It “Its” Or “It’s”?
Here’s a good rule of thumb. When you see an apostrophe, as in “it’s”, that is a contraction meaning “it is”. If you’re using “its”, that is possessive.
Examples:
It’s time for you to buy a new home.
Your new home supports its weight based on the foundation.
Is It “Affect” Or “Effect”?
This one can trip up even the best writers. “Affect” is a verb conveying the process of change. “Effect” is a noun. It’s as simple as that!
Examples:
Homebuyers must understand upgrades affect their mortgage payment.
A finished basement can have a positive effect on family game night!
Is It “Your” Or “You’re”?
Proper use of these two words may seem elementary, but they are frequently used improperly. The difference here is quite simple—“your” simply means to own something where “you’re” is being something, as in “you are”.
Examples:
As a builder you’re responsible for providing the best home possible.
Your homebuyers will greatly appreciate your attention to detail.
There you have it, the three most common grammar mistakes found in website content…but we’ve barely scratched the surface. What about “they’re” and “their” not to mention “there”? Or how bad it is to use passive voice?
Yes, well-crafted, grammatically correct content is tricky, but we’re here to help! If you have any questions regarding copy for your homebuilding website please give us a call at 301.416.7861.
Next week we will discuss the importance of concise, to the point copy and how to avoid the risk of the lengthy, drawn out content.