Clark W. Griswold, Jr. wrote:
"John A. Weeks III" wrote:

Why not just measure it and find out for sure. The formal is
pretty easy--length time width.

Unfortunately, its not that simple. Do you count heated space vs unheated space?
What about roof overhang on a porch? What about a great room with a balcony -
should you credit the open space over the room? Do you deduct for the interior
walls and other unaccessable heated space?

Bottom line is that anyone buying a home should assume quoted sq feet is a rough
approximation of the size and make a puchase/value decision on other factors...

The size of a house is calculated by the fooltprint, i.e., outside
measure, overhangs are not counted. Normal living areas are counted
thus a vaulted ceiling does not increase the count. Basements are
normally not counted unless fully developed but are mentioned.

Harry K