Are you planning to buy or sell a house? One of the most important factors to consider is the square footage of the property. Knowing the exact square footage can help you determine the value of the house and make informed decisions. In this blog post, we will discuss how to measure the square footage of a house in a simple and accurate manner.
Before we dive into the details, let's first understand why measuring square footage is important. The square footage of a house is a key factor in determining its market value. It affects the price per square foot, which is used by real estate agents and appraisers to estimate the value of a property. Additionally, knowing the square footage can help you compare different houses and make a well-informed decision based on your needs and budget.
1. Measuring the Exterior
The first step in measuring the square footage of a house is to measure the exterior dimensions. Start by measuring the length and width of each side of the house. You can use a tape measure or a laser measuring tool for accuracy. Make sure to measure from the outside edge of the walls, excluding any overhangs or extensions.
Once you have the measurements for each side, multiply the length by the width to get the area of each side. Add up the areas of all the sides to get the total exterior square footage of the house. Keep in mind that this method only provides an estimate and may not account for irregular shapes or features such as porches or decks.
2. Measuring the Interior
To get a more accurate measurement, it's important to measure the interior of the house as well. Start by measuring the length and width of each room. Again, make sure to measure from the inside edge of the walls. If there are any closets or built-in furniture, exclude them from the measurement.
Once you have the measurements for each room, multiply the length by the width to get the area of each room. Add up the areas of all the rooms to get the total interior square footage of the house. This method provides a more accurate measurement but may still not account for irregular shapes or features.
3. Measuring the Basement and Attic
Don't forget to include the basement and attic when measuring the square footage of a house. These areas can add valuable living space to the overall square footage. Measure the length and width of each room in the basement and attic separately, following the same method as measuring the interior. Add up the areas of all the rooms to get the total square footage of these areas.
Keep in mind that not all basements and attics are considered living space. If the basement or attic is unfinished or used for storage only, it may not be included in the total square footage. Check with your local building codes and regulations to determine how these areas should be classified.
4. Measuring the Garage
If the house has a garage, you may also want to include its square footage. Measure the length and width of the garage, following the same method as measuring the exterior. Multiply the length by the width to get the area of the garage. Add this area to the total square footage of the house to get the final measurement.
It's important to note that the garage may not be considered living space and may not add significant value to the overall square footage. However, it can still be useful information when comparing different houses or determining the usability of the space.
Conclusion
Measuring the square footage of a house is an essential step in the buying or selling process. It helps determine the value of the property and allows for accurate comparisons. By following the methods discussed in this blog post, you can measure the square footage of a house in a simple and accurate manner. Remember to consider the exterior, interior, basement, attic, and garage when calculating the total square footage. Happy measuring!
| Measurement Area | Method |
|---|---|
| Exterior | Measure the length and width of each side, then multiply |
| Interior | Measure the length and width of each room, then multiply |
| Basement and Attic | Measure the length and width of each room, then multiply |
| Garage | Measure the length and width of the garage, then multiply |