Whether you’re in the process of buying, selling, or refinancing your home, determining the property’s accurate square footage is crucial. That’s because an appraisal will provide you with an estimate of your home’s market value based on its size among other factors. If you’re planning to get a fair estimate and avoid any unnecessary surprises during the appraisal process, knowing how to calculate the square footage of your house is essential.

In this article, we’ll outline the steps involved in measuring and calculating the square footage of a property accurately.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

To measure your house’s square footage correctly, you’ll need:

1. A tape measure (preferably at least 25 feet long) or a laser distance measurer for more accuracy.

2. A note pad to sketch out rough floor plans and note dimensions.

3. A calculator or spreadsheet program for doing calculations.

Step 2: Create a Floor Plan Sketch

Before you begin measuring, sketch out a simple floor plan of your house. Include every room and any areas that contribute to the total living space such as hallways and staircases. Exclude unfinished basements and garages, as they typically do not count towards the total square footage in an appraisal.

Step 3: Measure Room Dimensions

Using your tape measure or laser measurer, record the length and width dimensions of each room or area in your floor plan sketch. Make sure to measure from wall-to-wall and not including baseboards or trim. Be as accurate as possible with your measurements as this will determine the overall square footage calculation.

Step 4: Calculate Square Footage per Room

For each room or area, multiply its length by its width measurements to obtain the square footage. Write down these figures on your note pad next to their respective spaces.

Step 5: Add up Total Square Footage

Once you’ve calculated the square footage for each room or area, add them all together to find the total square footage of your house. The sum will represent your property’s approximate living space, which is a vital factor in the appraisal process.

Step 6: Double-Check Your Measurements

To ensure accuracy, it’s essential to double-check your measurements and calculations. Incorrect dimensions can lead to significant discrepancies in your home’s value. If you’re uncertain about any aspect of your calculations, consider having a professional appraiser or contractor verify them before proceeding with the appraisal.

Conclusion

Calculating the square footage of your house is an essential step in understanding its value during an appraisal. By meticulously measuring and accurately calculating the living space, you can make informed decisions about selling, buying, or refinancing your property. Take the steps outlined in this guide to guarantee accuracy while navigating the appraisal process.