When looking to invest in real estate, understanding how to calculate areas is essential for accurately assessing the value of a property. Whether for a primary residence or a rental investment, several calculation methods exist, and each has its importance.
Living areas, usable areas, and weighted areas are key concepts to master. For example, the Carrez law imposes strict rules for condominiums, excluding certain parts of the housing such as cellars or balconies. Knowing how to distinguish these different measurements helps avoid unpleasant surprises and make informed choices regarding buying or selling.
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The different methods of calculating areas in real estate
To navigate the world of real estate, understanding the different methods of calculating areas is crucial. Three concepts stand out: living area, Carrez area, and usable area. Each meets specific criteria and has direct implications on the selling price of a property.
The living area corresponds to the total floor area of the rooms used for living. Exclude walls, partitions, stairs, and parts of rooms with a height of less than 1.80 meters. This area is determined by the Boutin law and is often used in real estate listings for individual houses and apartments outside of condominiums.
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Mandatory in condominiums, the Carrez area is defined by the Carrez law. It also excludes walls, partitions, stairs, and parts lower than 1.80 meters, but includes converted attics and certain verandas. This diagnosis must be carried out by a professional before the sale of the property. Its accuracy is fundamental, as an error can lead to a decrease in the selling price or cancellation of the transaction.
The usable area includes the living area as well as half of the annex areas such as balconies, loggias, and verandas. It provides a more comprehensive view of the available space in the property. This measurement is particularly used in the context of rental investments to estimate the return on a property. A useful conversion to know in the context of land estimation is the conversion from 1 are to m², which is equivalent to 100 m². 
How to calculate the living area, Carrez area, and usable area
To perform these calculations, you need to follow methodical and precise steps. The living area, under the Boutin law, requires taking into account the floor areas of the rooms used for living, while excluding walls, partitions, stairs, and parts of rooms with a height of less than 1.80 meters. Use a tape measure and a notebook to record the measurements:
- Measure the length and width of each room.
- Multiply the dimensions to obtain the area of each room.
- Subtract the areas not taken into account (walls, partitions, etc.).
The calculation of the Carrez area, required for properties in condominiums, is more complex and often requires the intervention of a professional. The Carrez law diagnosis also excludes walls, partitions, stairs, and parts lower than 1.80 meters, but includes converted attics and certain verandas. Here are the essential steps:
- Take the same measurements as for the living area.
- Include attics and verandas according to the criteria of the Carrez law.
- Have the measurements verified by a certified diagnostician.
The usable area, on the other hand, takes into account the living area and adds half of the annex areas such as balconies, loggias, and verandas. This calculation is particularly useful for real estate investors looking to estimate the rental yield of a property. To obtain this measurement:
- Calculate the living area.
- Add half of the annex areas (balconies, loggias, etc.).
Consider these different methods for an accurate estimate tailored to your real estate needs. A thorough understanding of these calculations will allow you to better assess the value of your property, optimize transactions, and avoid costly mistakes.