What can I do at home during the Corona crisis?

Working from home, reduced hours, childcare – many people are staying home due to the current coronavirus crisis. But for many, it doesn't take long before they start feeling cooped up. Anyone who's already seen everything on Netflix might want to check their living space calculations.

It may be hard to believe, but 90 percent of the square footage figures for existing properties are incorrect. Spot checks repeatedly confirm this. This is because square footage figures are often taken from building permit applications or old lease agreements, which were frequently calculated without any standardized calculation method.

Private sellers are liable for incorrect or incomplete information. If the stated living area does not match the actual living area, sellers risk a claim for damages. This can include a reduction in the sale price, financing and notary fees, as well as taxes paid by the buyer on the higher purchase price. Even the exclusion of warranty in real estate sales does not protect against claims for damages if the stated area was accepted as part of the contract.

There are several things to consider when calculating living space: Different calculation methods apply to door and window frames, stairs, stoves, built-in furniture, sloping ceilings, room heights, as well as chimneys, pillars, columns, partition walls, and niches. Deductions of between 0 and 100% of the floor area must also be made for basements, garages, terraces and balconies, heated or unheated conservatories and swimming pools, laundry rooms, and boiler rooms.

If you're unsure about calculating living space, it's best to consult a professional. Professional real estate agents know exactly how to calculate living space. They also bear the risk for accurate measurements themselves and don't pass this risk on to the client. This protects property sellers from potentially high claims for damages.

Do you have questions about calculating your living space? Contact us! We'd be happy to advise you.

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