Course Description

Learn the methods and procedures for measuring and calculating square footage in detached single-family dwellings based on the American National Standard for Single-Family Buildings (ANSI®) Guideline. The goal of this course is to offer real estate professionals a stronger understanding of this complex topic and the ability to better explain this subject to clients, buyers, sellers, and others. This course is an overview of the “ART” of measuring single-family homes, designed specifically for Realtors®, appraisers, or anyone who provides square footage information for others.

This course presents a collection of video measurement examples ranging from basic ranch style homes to complex one and one-half story homes, with sloped ceilings, dormers, and other unique measuring circumstances. Students will gain a better perspective on measuring residential square footage and how adhering to the ANSI® standard protects their company and their clients. Rediscover the “art” of estimating finished living area with the ultimate home measurement video guide.

Course Goal

The goal of this course is to teach appraisers and real estate professionals how to better estimate “finished living area” based on the ANSI® measurement standard. From basic ranch-style homes to complex one and one-half stories, with sloped ceilings and dormers, this course uses step-by-step video examples for unique measuring circumstances. By the end of this course, students will have a better understanding of methods and procedures for measuring and calculating residential square footage. Indeed, Size Matters!

Course Objectives

• Learn how to properly measure a single-family dwelling, based on the ANSI® measurement guideline
• Review the Rules of ANSI®
• Examine the measurement of stairs and upper levels
• Reveal the proper method to report above & below “grade” living areas
• Inspect the “Tools of the Trade”
• Define GLA or Gross Living Area
• Explore the proper method of determining “finished” living area
• Explain the “Rule of Thumb” in rounding measurements
• Learn how to calculate the total measurement when utilizing interior dimensions
• Illuminate the proper measurement of Garages – where the measurement begins and ends
• Investigate measuring corners and caps, chimneys, and bay windows
• Take a closer look at measuring rooms with sloped ceilings
• Make sense out of calculating sunrooms, enclosed porches and GLA
• Gain a better understanding of calculating and reporting Detached Spaces
• Breakdown basement measurements – analyse “Grade” and reporting room counts
• Summarize the best way to handle New Construction and square footage
• Evaluate the measurement of Townhomes and Condos
• Translate basic square footage math
• Realize the importance of square footage disclosures
• Think about the best manner in which to report square footage in MLS
• Illuminate the Home Measurement Specialist (HMS®) certification program