area from survey vs. from appraisal district
2,455We saw a listing. It lists the house size about 100sqft larger than from the appraisal district. When we asked the seller, he claimed that he got the number from a survey done 5 years ago. Can the seller do that? What should be the right basis of the house area? Or this is totally negotiable?
5 answer(s)
Like (1)
DislikeAbout 6 years ago
As long as the seller/listing agent sites the source they can change the square footage. I have run into a few situations where the square footage was significantly different than the appraisal district (larger and smaller). A seller typically does not notify the appraisal district if their home is larger because that is like saying "hey I want to pay more taxes!". While I don't believe a survey is an accurate measure of useable square footage something from an appraiser is. If there is a question about square footage it will obviously be rectified when the buyer has their own appraisal done, or you can request the home inspector do a general measure. FYI this measurement may vary from an appraiser who uses equipment specific to this.
About 6 years ago
County appraisal districts might have incorrect information. A recent survey or appraisal would provide a more accurate measurement of the home.
About 6 years ago
Appraisal district is not always 100%. My home shows as a 4 bedroom and it is 3. Before I sell I will have an appraiser come in to correct as well as square footage if inaccurate. If you are representing the buyer, I would ask to see the survey and/or ask seller to compensate for appraiser if the square footage is an issue for the buyer.
About 6 years ago
As long as the footprint of the property has not changed since the survey, the Seller can use the most recent survey. As a fiduciary for the Buyer, you should always insist upon a home inspection which should provide the proper square footage to your Buyer.
Disclaimer: Answers provided are just opinions and should not be accepted as advice.
Advertisement
1 answer
Resolved
Saved
