When buying a new property in Turkey and generally anywhere else around the world, the size of the property is one of the most crucial factors to consider.
In Turkey, the size of a property is expressed in gross square meters and net square meters. There is no uniform standard for advertising properties in Turkey, and consequently, interested buyers will notice large differences in property sizes due to the fact that some construction firms use net measurements while others use gross measurements.
So, what is the difference between gross and net square meters? Let’s start by defining them.
What is the Gross Square Meter Area?
The gross square meter is the entire area of enclosed space measured from the property’s outer walls. This is an umbrella phrase that encompasses everything in a property, including unused places, like areas in between walls. It’s how much space a property takes up, no matter if the space is used or not.
What is the Net Square Meter Area?
Net Square meter is the area of usable space that’s available for furnishings, equipment, and people. Net m2 is essentially Gross m2 minus unusable space. Areas included in Net square meters are measured from the inside finished surface of their surrounding walls, excluding any area bounded by structural columns, shafts, or outside finished surfaces. Rooms, living rooms, toilets, bathrooms, kitchens, and balconies are all counted when calculating the total usable area of a property.
Why it’s Important to Understand the Difference Between Gross Area and Net Area
Since contractors base their sales price estimates on gross area, this makes it a critical consideration for potential buyers. Because clients can’t compare rates based on net areas, they may make mistakes when comparing pricing.
Property A and B, for example, may both be 100 m2 in the gross area but have different net areas. Therefore, understanding the net area will allow you to make a more accurate comparison.
Alternatively, if you compare properties where one is offered in gross and one in net, the larger may appear to be a better deal. If the gross area of the property is just three-quarters of the usable area, the property that appears large on paper may be smaller than you believe.
Why it’s Critical that the Contract is Thoroughly Analyzed Before it’s Signed
Since there is no net area data on the title deed, a proper way to know the net area is to request a valuation for a property or to purchase it under the control of a real estate expert.
If the property is being built off-plan or is still in the early phases of construction, buyers or their agents should request floor plans as well as the specific number of gross and net areas to be included in the contract.
When buying a property, it is important to conduct a thorough evaluation of the contract. The contract should contain specifics on the net and gross square meters relating to the property. It’s very important that you don’t sign the contract in a hurry. If your contract does not include net and gross square meter details, it is recommended that you request to add this information.
As a result, make sure to work with professional agents that will take this issue into consideration and who will get signed documents to prove the stated net and gross areas.
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