According to national standards, how can a homeowner include garage space in their total square footage?

The process of including garage space in total square footage varies by standards and practices, but national guidelines generally allow for garages to be included as unfinished square footage. This means that while the garage space does contribute to the total size of the property, it does not meet the criteria for "finished" living space, which typically requires elements such as climate control, drywall, and flooring.

Unfinished square footage is important in real estate as it conveys how much space the property has for potential future use or development. Buyers and appraisers will consider this aspect when evaluating a property’s total area and potential value, even if the garage itself is not livable space like a bedroom or a living room. This classification allows for a more accurate representation of the overall size of the property, accommodating various uses of space without overstating its functional living area. Therefore, including garage space as unfinished square footage aligns with national standards and provides clarity in the appraisal process.