Finding the square footage on an appraisal report might seem straightforward, but its location can vary slightly depending on the appraiser and the reporting software used. However, it's almost always prominently displayed because it's a crucial piece of information influencing property value. This guide will walk you through the common places to locate this critical data point.
Where to Look First: The Summary or Overview Section
Most appraisal reports begin with a summary or overview section. This is usually where you'll find the most important details at a glance, including the subject property's:
- Address: Verify this matches the property you're inquiring about.
- Appraised Value: The estimated market value of the property.
- Square Footage: Look for terms like "gross living area (GLA)," "total living area," "square footage," or a similar designation. This figure typically represents the heated, habitable space within the home. It usually excludes garages, basements (unless finished), and other non-living areas.
Other Potential Locations:
If you don't find the square footage in the summary, these are additional places to check:
- Property Details Section: This section often provides a comprehensive description of the property's physical characteristics, including its size. You'll likely find detailed measurements and calculations leading to the total square footage.
- Site Description: While this section focuses on the land, some appraisers include the square footage of the improvements (the house itself) here.
- Appendices or Addendums: Occasionally, supporting documentation or supplemental data, like floor plans, might be included as appendices, and the square footage will be noted there.
Understanding Different Square Footage Measurements:
It's important to be aware that not all square footage measurements are created equal. An appraisal report might contain other square footage figures besides the GLA:
- Total Square Footage: This includes all areas of the house, including garages, basements, and unfinished spaces.
- Finished Basement Square Footage: If a basement is partially or fully finished, its area might be noted separately.
Make sure you understand which figure—usually the GLA—is most relevant to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions people have regarding finding square footage on an appraisal report.
Why is the square footage important on an appraisal?
Square footage is a significant factor influencing a property's value. Larger homes generally command higher prices, all else being equal. The appraiser uses square footage, alongside other factors (location, condition, features), to estimate market value.
What if the appraisal report doesn't list the square footage?
If the square footage is missing, contact the appraiser immediately. This is a crucial omission, and they should be able to provide the information promptly.
Can I rely on the square footage listed on the property tax assessment instead?
While the tax assessment might contain square footage information, it isn't always completely accurate. Appraisal reports undergo a more rigorous assessment, making the square footage detailed in the appraisal report more reliable.
How is the square footage measured in an appraisal?
Appraisers use standard measurement techniques, typically measuring the exterior dimensions of the house and subtracting areas like porches and patios. They then add up the areas of all habitable rooms to determine the GLA.
By carefully reviewing the appraisal report, and by understanding the various ways square footage is measured and presented, you should be able to readily locate this key piece of information. Remember that if you have difficulty locating it, contacting the appraiser directly is always the best course of action.
