Is Gla the same as square footage?
Joseph Russell
Published Apr 11, 2026
The gross living area (GLA) of a home refers to its above-grade, finished living space—what's also commonly referred to as its square footage.
What is GLA square footage?
GLA is defined by The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal as the “Total area of finished, above-grade residential space; calculation by measuring the outside perimeter of the structure and includes only finished, habitable, above-grade living space.What does GLA mean in an appraisal?
Gross leasable area, or GLA, is the area in a commercial property designed for the exclusive use of a tenant. GLA typically includes mezzanines, basements, or upper floors, but shared areas, such as public bathrooms or maintenance areas.What does gross living area include?
As defined by the Appraisal Institute's Dictionary of Real Estate 4th Edition: “Gross Living Area (GLA) – The total area of finished, above-grade residential space excluding unheated areas such as porches and balconies; the standard measure for determining the amount of space in residential properties.”Does GLA include basement?
Gross living area (GLA) is not the same as total living area (TLA.) Total living area typically includes any finished basement space or possibly an accessory dwelling unit. There is a general rule of thumb, that if any portion of the finished space is below grade the entire area is considered below grade.Rentable vs Usable Square Footage Explained
Is a walkout basement included in square footage?
A walkout basement can be included in the square footage of the entire home if it has a legal ingress or egress, which must also adhere to the building code requirements of a state.Does open to below count as square footage?
As for rooms in the house that aren't finished, like basements or attics, they should not be included in the total square footage. In fact, any part of the house that is below ground level -- even if it is only partially so -- should not be included under any circumstances.Does GLA include garage?
However, don't confuse the classification of space with value. Technically, no garage space is included within the GLA.What should be included in GLA?
GLA Measures Above Ground Living AreasLiving space, or “under air” space is calculated when determining square footage of a property. In a single-family house, GLA includes all living space that is above the land-line and has heating, lighting and ventilation.
What is difference between GLA and GBA?
The main difference between GLA and GBA is that below-grade living space is included in the GBA. Interior stairways, hallways, storage rooms and laundry rooms are part of the GBA. If the building has an exterior stairway, it is not included in the footage measurement.How is GLA adjustment calculated?
Adjustments are calculated by multiplying an adjustment factor times the quantity difference between the subject and comparable. For example, if the GLA for the subject is 2200 sq ft and for a comparable, 2000 sq ft, the difference, 200 sq ft would be multiplied by the adjustment factor.What is GLA mean?
Overview. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is a fatty substance. It's found in various plant seed oils such as borage oil and evening primrose oil. People use it as medicine.What does GFLA mean in real estate?
GFLA stands for Ground Floor Living Area (real estate)Suggest new definition.