Understanding and Calculating the Square Footage of Living Area
Measuring the square footage of the living area in your home involves a well-defined process, but measurement standards can vary across the country. The calculation typically excludes areas such as the basement, garage, carport, patio, or atrium. However, in some regions, a fraction of these spaces might be included in the total measurement.
For condos or co-ops, it’s common to measure from interior wall to interior wall, often referred to as paint-to-paint measurements.
Why Knowing The Square Footage Matters
Accurately measuring the square footage of your living area is crucial. These metrics can influence decisions in buying or selling properties by providing a basis for comparison to other homes. Most often, realtors, appraisers, and buyers break down the price per square foot to analyze the value of a property.
For example, when comparing two homes, you might find that a house priced at $250,000 with 2,500 square feet of living area translates to $100 per square foot. Another home priced at $275,000 but offering 3,000 square feet results in roughly $91.67 per square foot, making it potentially a better deal on a per-square-foot basis.
Examples to Illustrate
- Standard Home Example: A traditional single-family home is measured from exterior wall to exterior wall. For example, if your home’s total exterior measurements equal 3,000 sq. ft., and after subtracting the basement, garage, and patios, the living area measures up to 2,500 sq. ft.
- Condo Example: Let’s consider a condo unit where the interior (paint-to-paint) dimensions total up to 2,000 square feet. This measure excludes common areas but includes every inch inside the paint lines of the condo’s interior walls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the square footage of a living area include?
A: Typically, it includes all of the inside livable space rooms like bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms but excludes basements, garages, patios, or carports. Specific regions may have differing standards.
Q: How does the square footage impact property value?
A: The price per square foot is often a pivotal metric in property valuation and can help buyers and sellers determine whether a price is fair compared to similar properties.
Q: How are the measurements different for condos?
A: For condos, square footage is often measured from the interior wall to interior wall (paint-to-paint), excluding common areas outside the unit.
Q: Can unfinished spaces be included in the square footage?
A: Generally, unfinished spaces like basements and attics are not included in the square footage as living areas. They must be finished to count.
Q: Are measurement standards the same across the country?
A: No, measurement standards can vary widely. It is essential to understand local conventions and guidelines.
By understanding how to measure and interpret the square footage of living areas in homes, you can make better-informed decisions whether you’re buying, selling, or simply refinancing your property.
Related Terms: appraisal, price per square foot, paint-to-paint measurement, home valuation.
