Above/Below Grade Square Footage

When calculating above grade square footage, only the finished area on levels that are 100% above grade (ground level) should be included. If an exposed or walk-out lower level has one exterior wall even partially below grade, all rooms on that level must be counted as below grade. More detail can be found within this helpful guide.

Finished Square Footage

According to MLS guidelines, for square footage to be considered finished, the space must be heated, have finished walls (painted concrete does not count), have a finished ceiling (no exposed floor joists), and have a finished floor (painted concrete does not count). If one of these four components is missing, the space can still be considered finished, but disclosure of the missing component must be included in the MLS remarks. Only finished rooms may be included in the room dimensions section. An exception is made for the “Other Room” selections of Three-Season Room, Screened Porch, and Garage, as the name discloses the space as unfinished.