Square footage is still a question

The issue of accurately reflecting a home's square footage in MLS is a problem that seems to haunt me -- especially when I am representing a buyer and there is a big question of how big a home REALLY is?  In the Houston market, we tend to base an offer or even a list price on sales of similar sized homes with similar amenities.  That is also how homes are appraised.  So, when a listing indicates the square footage is "Per Seller" rather than "Per Appraisal", "Per Builder" or even "Per Appraisal District" -- it definitely raises some questions in the mind of the buyers, and certainly in my mind as well.

If you are selling a home and there is any question as to the accuracy of actually how many square feet your home has, I strongly recommend hiring an appraiser to simply do a square footage measurement.  This is a very inexpensive way to satisfy the need to accurately disclose your square footage, and can certainly pay for itself many times over if your home is larger than the appraisal district or even your builder indicated on the building floorplan.  The cost is generally around $150-$200 for this service, depending on the size of your home.  

If you are purchasing a home that indicates the square footage source is simply the "Seller", I would recommend asking the listing agent for documentation to support that claim.  There is no reason to walk away from a home with a question on the square footage, if you believe it will be the right home for your family.  But you do have the right to know what you are purchasing!  And armed with this information, you will be better prepared to make a strong offer.