Home Square Footage- Bigger is Not Always Better

Bigger is Not Always Better

When shopping for a home in Middle Tennessee, many buyers are quick to focus on one number:  Total square footage:  

While that number may seem important, it doesn’t always reflect how functional or livable a home truly is. In fact, a smaller home with a smart floor plan can feel more spacious than a larger one with poor layout design.

So, how do you evaluate a home's true usability beyond square footage? It starts by looking at linear footage—the amount of usable wall space within each room.

Square Footage vs. Usable Space: What's the Difference?

• Square footage is calculated using the exterior dimensions of heated living areas. It generally excludes non-living spaces such as garages, unfinished attics, and two-story foyers. Bonus rooms over garages may be measured differently, depending on ceiling height and HVAC status.
• Linear footage refers to the actual length of wall space available for use in each room. This is a critical factor when planning furniture placement and day-to-day functionality.

What to Look for When Touring a Home

When evaluating a property, pay close attention to how well the layout supports usable space, rather than simply checking square footage:

• Wall interruptions: Look at how doors, windows, and closets break up wall space. Are there large uninterrupted sections for furniture, shelving, or artwork?
• Air vent placement: Vents under windows maximize useable wall areas and can impact how you arrange furniture.
• Electrical outlets: Are they centered or awkwardly placed? Well-positioned outlets can make a big difference in how a room functions.
• Floor plan efficiency: Does the layout offer open, connected spaces, or does it feel choppy with odd-shaped rooms and unnecessary hallways?

Bring a Tape Measure—And Your Furniture Specs

Before excluding a home based on square footage alone, consider how your actual furniture would fit. Know the dimensions of key pieces like sofas, beds, and dining tables, and bring those measurements with you to showings. You might be surprised how well your layout works in a home that initially seemed "too small" on paper.

Bottom Line: Bigger Isn’t Always Better

The most livable home isn’t always the one with the most square feet—it’s the one with the most functional space. Don’t let square footage alone dictate your decisions. Take the time to assess layout, wall space, and how the home fits your lifestyle. You could find that a "smaller" home feels a lot bigger than you expected.

Looking for expert help finding a home that fits your needs—not just the numbers?

Contact Kim Blanton, your trusted Middle Tennessee REALTOR® specializing in residential and equestrian properties. Let's find a home that fits your life beautifully.

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