How Do I Figure Out the Best Square Footage for My Family Home?

The average new single-family home in the U.S. measured at 2,464 square feet in 2020 (National Association of Home Builders), but that doesn't mean this is the ideal size for every family or even your family. Determine the perfect square footage for you and your family with the following tips.

Keep Your Family Size and Lifestyle in Mind

Focus on both present and future plans when determining the amount of space best for you and your family. Will this be your starter home, or are you hoping to grow your family here and make it your forever home? If you’re planning on the latter, the best way to make sure you don’t outgrow it is to have a bedroom for each family member plus one extra bedroom. For example, if you and your partner have one child, you should consider a three-bedroom home.

To get a rough estimate of a comfortable amount of square footage needed, keep in mind that the ideal amount of space per person is 600 to 700 sqft. You can always adjust your final calculations according to certain lifestyle factors, such as:

• You enjoy entertaining often
• Loved ones frequently visit from out of town and stay with you
• Your family has hobbies that demand extra space and storage

Focus on Areas That Add the Most Value

Once you’ve figured out your goal square foot range, you’ll need to decide how it will be used. This is especially important if you sell your home one day. Even if that feels like it’s in the distant future or not even a possibility, plans can change. Be prepared to pique potential buyers' interests by designating generous square footage to two of the most valuable rooms when it comes to resale: the kitchen and the main bedroom.

The National Association of Home Builders reports that these two rooms should each take up 12% of your home’s total square footage. If you'd like your home to be about 2,500 sqft, then both your kitchen and main bedroom should measure at about 300 sqft.

Consider Maintenance, Utility Bills, and Other Upkeep Costs

How much square footage is too much? This answer will vary for every homeowner, but don't forget to factor in the higher costs and upkeep that come with larger homes like property taxes, insurance, utility bills, and overall maintenance.

Leave the guesswork out of finding the right size home for you and your family when you work with a reputable home builder. Whether you want to build from the ground up or are looking for a move-in-ready home in the Detroit area, partner with Robertson Homes. Our team has decades of experiencing building high-quality homes and communities that home buyers are proud to call home. Connect with a sales counselor to start working with our dedicated team today.