The above-grade finished square footage of a house is the sum of finished areas on levels that are designated as what?

The term "above-grade finished square footage" refers specifically to the sum of finished areas on levels that are above ground and are designed for living purposes. These areas are typically associated with the concept of net living area, which encompasses spaces that are used for daily living and do not include areas designated for utilities, garages, or other non-living purposes.

Net living area takes into consideration only those spaces that contribute to a residential living environment, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and living rooms. This definition aligns well with the notion of finished areas above grade, as these are the spaces that provide functional living space for the occupants of the home.

Other terms, like living area or recreational area, might not capture the full scope of what constitutes above-grade finished square footage for assessment purposes. Similarly, service areas typically refer to parts of a home that do not serve as primary living spaces, such as mechanical rooms, which would not be included in the calculation of finished square footage designed for living. Therefore, understanding the definition and implications of net living area is key in determining the proper categorization of a home's finished square footage.