Independent neighborhood guide, not affiliated with any homeowners association, property manager, city or official board.
Updated October 23, 2026
Price per square foot is one of the most common ways people compare homes. It looks simple. But it’s only as good as the measurements behind it, and those vary more than most people think.
Here’s what to watch for, whether you’re pricing your home or comparing homes to buy.
Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying nearby.
First, compare like with like
Price per square foot only works when homes are similar in size, location, condition and features. A big difference in any of those throws the comparison off.
Where the numbers come from
Square footage usually comes from the builder’s plans, an appraisal or the county assessor. None of them is perfect, and they often disagree.
Then there’s what counts. Porches, garages and storage areas usually don’t. Basements are handled differently from place to place, even though a finished lower level can add real value.
Why a few hundred feet matters
Say a home sells for $275,000. The appraiser measured 2,800 square feet, the assessor says 2,650 and the builder’s plans say 2,975. Depending on which number you use, the price per square foot ranges from about $92 to $104. Apply that to a similar home and the value could swing by $30,000 or more.
The fix is to ask where every number came from and not take it at face value. As a builder, I look at how a home was measured, built and finished, not just the total. Start with a home value estimate or the seller questionnaire.
A simple plan for your square footage move
I’ve been helping people sell and buy homes across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.
Getting the house ready, or making it yours
If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. For the local picture, read my Chaska homes guide or browse neighborhoods in Chanhassen and Victoria.
Super Crew Contractors, Ivy Lane Homes and Intrinsic Insurance are owned by David Olson; you are free to use any contractor, builder or insurer.
Your next step in square footage
Every move is different. When you’re ready to talk about yours, I’m a call or text away.
Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with sellers and buyers, and that’s where I can help you most in square footage.
Stay close to the market, without the noise.
Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Twin Cities homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.
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