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Home Measurement in Austin & San Antonio

Wheeler Appraisal can measure your home in accordance with the ANSI Z765 measurement standard. The measurement process typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size and complexity of the home.

To complete the measurement accurately, we require access to both the interior and exterior of the property. Upon completion, we can provide an ANSI-compliant exterior dimensions and gross living area calculation.

Home Measurement Sketch

Key ANSI Measurement Guidelines

1. Exterior Measurements

  • Detached homes are measured from the outside surface of the exterior walls.

  • Attached homes (townhomes, duplexes, etc.) are typically measured to the centerline of common walls.

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2. Gross Living Area (GLA)
GLA includes only:

  • Finished living space.

  • Above-grade living area.

  • Heated and suitable for year-round occupancy.

  • Areas with walls, ceilings, and flooring similar to the remainder of the home.

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3. What Is NOT Included in GLA

The following are measured and reported separately:

  • Garages

  • Unfinished attics

  • Unfinished storage rooms

  • Porches and decks

  • Screened porches

  • Basements (even if completely finished)

  • Detached guest houses or studios

Stairways

  • Staircases are counted in the square footage of the floor from which they descend.

  • Finished space beneath stairs is included if it meets ANSI requirements.

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Split-Level Homes

If any portion of a level is below grade, the entire level is classified as below grade and is not included in the home's above-grade GLA, regardless of the quality of the finish. It is reported separately.

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Bay Windows and Bump-Outs

Bay windows or projections are included only if they provide usable floor area. Chimneys and similar structural projections are generally excluded.

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Measurement Precision

  • Measurements are typically taken to the nearest inch or tenth of a foot.

  • The final square footage is reported to the nearest whole square foot.

  • The appraisal includes a computer-generated sketch showing dimensions and calculations.

Why this Matters

It's common for an appraiser's measured GLA to differ from:

  • County appraisal district records

  • Builder plans

  • MLS listings

  • Previous appraisals

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