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Answers (6)
- Toby & John T. Williams, "tjplace"
- Contributions:271
GLA only includes above grade living space. That means finished, heated ABOVE ground. Basements, finished or not, garages, unheated spaces are NOT included as GLA square footage by appraisers. These other spaces DO add value, just not the same as GLA.
I will say it drives me crazy watching lots of TV shows that show a tiny ranch (approx 1000 sqft) and call it a 2000 sqft home because they include the basement. Not true in USA>
I will say it drives me crazy watching lots of TV shows that show a tiny ranch (approx 1000 sqft) and call it a 2000 sqft home because they include the basement. Not true in USA>
- sunnyview
- Contributions:25127
No. Spaces that are not finished, conditioned (heated/cooled) or allowed by code to be living space should not be counted in the total square footage. Also, spaces that have been converted to living space like a garage or attic without building permits should not be included in the total.
- Pamela Anderson, "Pamela Anderson"
- Contributions:91
Attics and garages are not included in a homes total square footage. In Kansas, finished portions of the basement are included. It is best to check your local guidelines.
- Natalie Hawkins, "NatalieHawkins"
- Contributions:5
To the best of my knowledge... Attic space, garage, or unfinished basement are not to be included. The basement does need to be on a centralized system to be included in square footage if it is finished or partially finished.
An appraiser will not value basement sg footage the same even if it is fully finished. Below grade has lower value than above grade and people generally do not use the same standards in the basement , most will have lower quality finishes than the main level. Also, an appraiser uses the cost approach, adding and finishing a basement costs much less than say adding on the same square footage.
Hope this helps!
- carolrush
- Contributions:17
In Portland OR, a finished basement is NOT included in the square footage, even though it may have egress and finished bathrooms, master bedroom, laundry, and office or family room space. It is always wise to check with the local appraisers before remodeling your basement in anticipation of adding square footage. Even though it IS up to code and extremely nice, some places don't count it. And you don't want to find out after the remodel....like me! :(
- wetdawgs
- Contributions:26804
There is some variation from community to community as to what is included. In general it is living area that is all contiguous with HVAC. The garage and attic are never included. A finished basement may be included in some areas if if fits certain code rules about access/egress (very community dependent). Unfinished basement is never part of the square footage.
Garage, attic and unfinished basements in total square footage?
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