The answer is YES and NO. If you have a finished basem*nt, it should be considered part of the square footage of your home. The key word is “finished”. An unfinished basem*nt is not ever going to be considered when calculating square footage. This can get tricky and many homeowners can get confused when trying to calculate.
Gross Living Area of a Home
The gross living area of a home is usually calculated by measuring the outside perimeter of the structure. The area that is included must be finished and considered a “livable” space. Depending on the state, this will only include above-grade residential space. This can exclude basem*nts in many instances.
When is a Basem*nt Included in Square Footage?
The trickiest part of trying to figure out if you can factor in your basem*nts square footage is if your state allows below ground level spaces to be considered. In many instances, the entire level must be above grade for the square footage to be factored in. Walkout basem*nts that have a door leading directly to the outside may also be considered part of your total homes’ square footage. Another factor is that it must be a finished and livable space. The space should be similar to your homes standards and have finished walls and flooring. Having appropriate plumbing and electrical is also important when considering it a livable space.
When is a Basem*nt Excluded from Square Footage?
There are a couple of times when your basem*nt will not count towards the square footage of your home. As I mentioned before, some states do not count anything that is below grade. Even if you have a fully finished basem*nt, it still wouldn’t be included. Another reason is having an unfinished basem*nt. Unfinished basem*nts are never included because they do not add to the livable space of the home.
Adding More Square Footage with a Finished Basem*nt
One thing is certain, whether your finished basem*nt is calculated as part of your square footage or not, it will always add value to your home. Read Calculating the Value of a Remodeled Basem*nt – Basem*nts Plus (finishedbasem*ntsplus.com) and Value of Finishing a Basem*nt | Basem*nts Plus . Having an extra space in your home that can serve as extra space, can always wow a potential buyer, and add value to the price of the home. Contact us for a free 90 minute in home estimate Contact – Basem*nts Plus (finishedbasem*ntsplus.com)
