When you begin house hunting, real estate listings often
include key search factors including the price, number of rooms, and the square
footage of a home. In some circumstances, the listed square footage could
represent a lower number than the space available.
Learn how certain areas do not count towards the square
footage but still provide a lot of extra living space for the home. The extra
areas could make a big difference when you go to purchase a home and influence
your buying decision. In some cases, areas could nearly double the amount of
living space you have.
1. Screened Patios
A patio area offers an ideal living space to enjoy fresh air
and the outdoors, but the space is not counted towards the total square
footage. When you purchase a home with a screened patio, you could install
windows in the space and have a natural expansion of your home.
The screened patio area offers large spaces which you can
utilize for seating areas, playrooms, or other entertainment options. The
weather protection allows you to use the space all year round, and you could
add heating elements to the area.
When you look for listings, check out pictures of the home
exterior to see if any screened patios are included. Some listings could list
the square footage of the patio area as a separate element.
2. Finished Basements
One of the largest areas in your home not counted towards
the square footage is the finished basement. A basement could expand beyond the
whole bottom level of your house, essentially doubling the available square
footage in a single story home.
You may utilize a finished basement as a single large room
or choose to split up the rooms into different living areas like a home office
or workout area. Unfinished basements are not counted towards the square
footage either.
When you find a home with a large unfinished basement, you
have the option to finish the basement and expand the living area of the home.
3. Stair Landings
Oddly, the stair landing at the top of a second story home
is not often counted towards the square footage of a home. The area is often
just a small space that leads to a hallway, but some homes offer much larger
stair landings. You may use the space as a reading nook, a decorative area, or
a small play area.
Check out the various designs of stair landings and how to
turn the small space into a productive area for the home. For example, during
various holidays, use the rails and floor space to set up decorations and make
the house look more festive.
4. Lofts and Detached Living Spaces
Any element not physically attached to a home is not listed
as part of the home's square footage. For example, a detached garage is not
added in but often listed as a separate element. Garages could include loft
areas and living spaces that do not count towards the home or garage square
footage.
A loft area offers storage options or a place for children
to hang out. You could turn the space into an art space, a home gym, or a home
theater space. The loft would essentially become a large extra room to utilize.
Along with a garage, look for any other detached buildings
on the property. Pool houses, a small art studio, or an in-law apartment would
not a part of the full square footage of the home. The spaces will greatly
expand your living space and gives you plenty of options for the whole living
space.
For more information on home listings and features, check
out our listings at Montgomery
Realtors. Our experienced realtors will guide you through homes and detail
how to make the most out of the available space in each home.
