Unleash Your Inner Tycoon: How to Snag Free Real Estate in The Sims
So, you want to build your dream life in The Sims without the pesky constraint of Simoleons? You’re in the right place. The path to free real estate in The Sims is paved with cheat codes, and this guide will be your blueprint to unlock it, covering various Sims titles for maximum Simoleon-saving potential. Whether you’re a seasoned Simmer or just starting out, understanding these cheats will open up a world of possibilities, letting you focus on crafting compelling stories rather than grinding for funds.
Free Real Estate: The Cheat Code Rundown
The precise method for obtaining free real estate varies slightly depending on which Sims game you’re playing, but the core principle remains the same: use a cheat code. Here’s how to do it in The Sims 4 and The Sims 3, the most popular titles in the franchise.
The Sims 4: FreeRealEstate On
- Open the Cheat Console: Press Ctrl + Shift + C (or Command + Shift + C on Mac) to open the cheat console. A text box will appear at the top of your screen.
- Enable Testing Cheats (Required for some users): Type testingcheats true into the console and press Enter. This unlocks the full potential of the cheat system and may be needed on some systems for the FreeRealEstate cheat to work. If you don’t see a message saying cheats are enabled, try again.
- Enter the FreeRealEstate Cheat: Type FreeRealEstate On (case doesn’t matter) into the cheat console and press Enter. You should receive a confirmation message.
- Move in for Free: Now, when you go to move your Sims into a new house, all lots will be free, regardless of the price.
- Turn it off: To disable the cheat, type FreeRealEstate Off into the cheat console and press Enter.
The Sims 3: freerealestate
- Open the Cheat Console: Press Ctrl + Shift + C to open the cheat console.
- Enable Testing Cheats: Type testingcheatsenabled true into the console and press Enter. Important: Ensure you enter this cheat before entering the neighborhood you want to move into.
- Enter the FreeRealEstate Cheat: Type freerealestate (case doesn’t matter) into the cheat console and press Enter.
- Move in for Free: All lots will now be free when you go to move your Sims into a new house in the selected neighborhood.
Beyond Free Real Estate: Expanding Your Simming Power
While free real estate is a fantastic start, the Sims offers a plethora of other cheats that can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. Let’s explore some essential cheat codes that complement your newfound freedom.
Build Mode Cheats: Unleash Your Architectural Vision
- bb.moveobjects on/off: This allows you to place objects anywhere, even overlapping each other, regardless of the grid. It’s essential for creating realistic and unique interiors and landscapes. Type bb.moveobjects on to enable, and bb.moveobjects off to disable.
- bb.enablefreebuild: This cheat allows you to build on lots that are normally restricted, such as community lots or secret lots. Type bb.enablefreebuild to activate.
Unlocking Items and Hidden Worlds
- bb.ignoregameplayunlocksentitlement: This unlocks all items that are normally locked behind career progression or other in-game achievements. Type bb.ignoregameplayunlocksentitlement to unlock all build and buy mode items.
- Exploring Hidden Lots: The Sims 4 features several hidden lots, such as the Forgotten Grotto and Sylvan Glades. You can find tutorials online that guide you through the specific interactions required to unlock these locations.
Money Cheats: From Rags to Riches (or Just Enough to Build)
- money [amount]: This sets your household funds to a specific amount. For example, typing money 50000 will give your household 50,000 Simoleons.
- kaching/rosebud: These cheats add 1,000 Simoleons to your household funds.
- motherlode: This cheat adds 50,000 Simoleons to your household funds. If you prefer not to start with completely unlimited funds, these simpler cheats can get you started.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Free Real Estate in The Sims
1. Does the FreeRealEstate cheat work on all platforms?
Yes, the FreeRealEstate On/Off cheat in The Sims 4 works on PC, Mac, PlayStation, and Xbox. The method for accessing the cheat console may vary slightly (e.g., holding all bumper buttons on consoles), but the cheat itself functions the same.
2. Do I need expansion packs for the FreeRealEstate cheat to work?
No, the FreeRealEstate cheat is part of the base game for both The Sims 4 and The Sims 3, so you don’t need any expansion packs to use it.
3. Can I use other cheats with FreeRealEstate enabled?
Yes, you can use other cheats simultaneously with FreeRealEstate enabled. For example, you can use the money cheat to give your Sims some starting funds, or the bb.moveobjects cheat to customize your new home.
4. What if the FreeRealEstate cheat isn’t working?
First, ensure you’ve typed the cheat correctly. Double-check the spelling and capitalization (although capitalization usually doesn’t matter). Also, make sure you’ve enabled testing cheats first (testingcheats true in The Sims 4, testingcheatsenabled true in The Sims 3). If problems persist, restart your game.
5. Can I still earn achievements with cheats enabled?
In The Sims 4, using cheats will disable achievements for that specific save file. However, you can create a separate save file specifically for using cheats and still earn achievements on a “clean” save. The Sims 3 does not disable all achievements.
6. Does the FreeRealEstate cheat affect all households in the game?
No, the FreeRealEstate cheat only affects the household you are currently playing with. Other households will still need to pay for their homes as usual.
7. Can I use the FreeRealEstate cheat to move into apartments?
Yes, in The Sims 4, the FreeRealEstate cheat allows you to move into apartments without paying any rent. This is a great way to experience city living without the financial burden.
8. Is there a way to get free real estate without using cheats?
Not really. The Sims is designed to have a financial system, so without using cheats, you’ll need to earn Simoleons to afford a house. You could potentially find lots that are valued at zero if you demolish everything on the lot, but generally you will need to rely on cheats.
9. Can I sell a house after using the FreeRealEstate cheat?
Yes, you can sell a house after using the FreeRealEstate cheat. You will receive the full value of the house and its contents, as if you had purchased it normally.
10. Does the FreeRealEstate cheat work in The Sims 2?
The Sims 2 does not have a specific “FreeRealEstate” cheat. However, you can use the money cheats (e.g., kaching, motherlode) to give your Sims enough money to purchase any house they want.
11. Where are the secret lots that I can unlock in The Sims 4?
Some secret lots in The Sims 4 include:
- Forgotten Grotto: Located in Oasis Springs.
- Sylvan Glade: Located in Willow Creek.
- Sixam: The alien world accessible through the Scientist career in the Get to Work expansion pack.
12. How can I make the most of building a home for free in The Sims?
Experiment with the bb.moveobjects cheat to create unique designs. Browse online galleries for inspiration. Don’t be afraid to demolish and rebuild sections of your house until you’re satisfied. The beauty of free real estate is that you can take risks without financial consequences.
13. Can I use free real estate to start a new game with a large, elaborate house?
Yes, that’s one of the best uses for the FreeRealEstate cheat! You can download a pre-built house from the gallery or build your own dream mansion from scratch, then move your Sims in for free. This allows you to focus on gameplay and storytelling without worrying about starting with limited funds.
14. What if I regret using the FreeRealEstate cheat?
Simply disable the cheat by typing FreeRealEstate Off into the cheat console (in The Sims 4). If you want to start a new game without cheats, simply create a new save file.
15. Where can I learn more about game-based learning and the benefits of video games?
You can explore the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. This is a great site if you want to delve into the ways that games, including the Sims can provide positive educational experiences.
Embrace your newfound freedom and build the Sim life you’ve always dreamed of, free from financial constraints. Happy Simming!