What is the standard method of measuring residential buildings?

The correct choice is Gross Living Area, which is the standard method used to measure residential buildings. Gross Living Area (GLA) refers to the total finished area of a building that is above grade, meaning above ground level. This measurement typically includes all living spaces such as bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and living rooms, but does not include uninhabitable areas like basements or garages unless they are finished and meet local standards.

Understanding Gross Living Area is important because it provides a consistent and comprehensive way of assessing a home's size, making it easier for appraisers, real estate agents, and potential buyers to evaluate properties. GLA plays a key role in determining property value in the real estate market, as buyers typically look for the amount of usable and livable space when considering a purchase.

The other options pertain to different aspects of measuring space in residential buildings. For example, Net Living Area might only include usable rooms and exclude certain aspects of the structure, while Usable Area could refer to space that can be utilized for a specific purpose but does not capture the entire living space. Exterior Area generally pertains to the outside dimensions of a home and would not give a clear indication of livable or usable space inside. Understanding these distinctions helps in accurately