ANSI Standards for Measuring Single Family Residential Properties
What Are ANSI Standards?
The ANSI standards provide a uniform method for measuring, calculating, and reporting the square footage of single-family residential properties. These standards aim to ensure that all properties are measured consistently, which helps in creating reliable and comparable data across different listings and appraisals. Key components of the ANSI standards include:
- Above-Grade and Below-Grade Areas: Differentiating between above-grade (finished living space above ground level) and below-grade areas (basements, cellars) is essential. Above-grade areas are typically where most living and daily activities occur, and they contribute significantly to the overall value of the property. Below-grade areas, while useful and valuable, are often considered differently in terms of livable square footage and market value.
- Finished and Unfinished Areas: Clarifying which parts of the property are considered finished living areas versus unfinished spaces helps ensure accurate valuation. Finished areas are those that have walls, ceilings, and floors completed to a livable standard, including heating and cooling systems. Unfinished areas, like attics or utility rooms, may lack these features and are not counted towards the total living area. This distinction is crucial for providing a clear and honest representation of the usable living space available to potential buyers.
3. Room Dimensions: Measuring the interior dimensions of rooms to the nearest inch or tenth of a foot ensures precision and consistency. Accurate room dimensions are vital for buyers who need to understand the space available for furniture and personal items. ANSI standards specify measuring from the interior surfaces of the exterior walls, providing a consistent approach that minimizes variations due to different construction methods or architectural features.
4. Exterior Measurements: ANSI standards also encompass the method of taking exterior measurements. This involves measuring the outside perimeter of the building to calculate the gross living area (GLA). By measuring from the exterior, the standards account for wall thickness and other architectural features, providing a more accurate representation of the total livable area. This method helps prevent discrepancies that might arise from different interior layouts or structural variations.
Why ANSI Standards Matter
Adhering to ANSI standards is vital for several reasons:
- Consistency: Ensures that all properties are measured and reported uniformly, providing reliable data for comparisons.
- Transparency: Helps build trust with buyers by providing accurate and verifiable property information.
- Compliance: Meets industry standards and requirements, reducing the risk of discrepancies and legal issues.
Accurate property measurements are essential for successful real estate transactions, and the ANSI standards provide a reliable framework for achieving this. At Advanced Appraisal TN and Ordermeasurements.com, we are dedicated to helping realtors with accurate square footage measurements.
If you are getting ready to list a property for a client, go to ordermeasurements.com for a reliable square footage calculation or visit our “Request a Quote” page to order an appraisal.