What is Front Footage in Real Estate Property Measurements?

I've noticed many real estate buyers overlook front footage when searching for properties. Yet, this measurement plays such a critical role in determining a property's value and potential uses. Let me break down what front footage means and why you should pay attention to it during your property search.

Front Footage: The linear measurement of a property's width along the street or road it faces, typically expressed in feet. Front footage is particularly important for commercial properties, as it indicates the amount of street exposure and potential storefront space available.

Understanding Front Footage Measurements

Getting accurate front footage measurements requires proper techniques and tools. Surveyors use several methods depending on the property's layout. For straight lots, they measure directly along the street line. Curved roads need special calculations that account for the arc of the street. Corner lots often have multiple front footage measurements - one for each street they face.

Professional surveyors typically use:

• Laser measuring devices

• Traditional measuring wheels

• GPS equipment

• Survey-grade tape measures

Impact on Commercial Real Estate

Front footage directly affects a commercial property's potential success. Think about your favorite shopping district - those storefronts you see from the street represent front footage in action. More front footage means more windows for displays, better visibility for signage, and increased customer access points.

A property's front footage influences:

• The number of potential entrance points

• Display window space

• Street-facing advertising opportunities

• Parking lot entrance and exit options

Front Footage in Different Property Types

Each property type uses front footage differently. Retail stores want maximum street exposure. Office buildings might focus on impressive entrance ways. Industrial properties need wide frontage for truck access.

For residential properties, front footage matters too:

• Urban homes: Street parking availability

• Suburban properties: Driveway width and curb appeal

• Waterfront properties: Views and water access

Financial Implications

Front footage directly impacts property values. Many commercial areas price properties by the front foot - multiplying the front footage by a dollar amount based on location and market conditions.

For example: A property with 50 feet of frontage in an area valued at $1,000 per front foot would have a base value of $50,000 just for its frontage.

Common Challenges and Considerations

Not all front footage situations are straightforward. You might encounter:

• Irregular shaped lots that complicate measurements

• Properties with frontage on multiple streets

• Setback requirements that limit usable space

• Zoning laws affecting how you can use the frontage

Front Footage in Property Development

Smart developers maximize front footage potential through careful planning. Building placement, parking design, and future expansion possibilities all depend on how well you use available front footage.

Consider these development aspects:

• Building orientation for maximum visibility

• Strategic placement of entrances and exits

• Space allocation for future additions

• Compliance with local building codes

Market Value Correlation

Front footage value varies by location. A downtown storefront might command premium prices, while a similar measurement in a quiet area might be worth less. Traffic patterns, nearby businesses, and neighborhood characteristics all affect front footage value.

Making Informed Real Estate Decisions

Before purchasing property, analyze your front footage needs carefully. Consider your current requirements and potential future growth. Calculate the cost-benefit ratio of different front footage options against your budget and business plan.

The Role of Front Footage in Property Selection

Front footage remains a fundamental aspect of property evaluation. Whether you're buying commercial or residential property, understanding front footage helps you make better investment decisions.

Bellhaven Real Estate's team measures and evaluates properties accurately, helping you find the perfect match for your needs. Our expertise ensures you understand exactly what you're getting - from the street to the property line.