The sf is living space. The basement must have at least one operable emergency escape and rescue opening (Egress) to be considered.
If I can help further, please don't hesitate to call. http://www.karenmordus.com

Great question – according to the New Castle County Public Records this home has 1550 square feet of living space “including the 504 square foot finished portion of the basement. So yes they are permitted to include the finished basement square footage in the total.

Usually if the County records show that the home has a finished basement and it states the square footage, the home has gotten a permit for having a finished basement. Additionally, the recent Egress law requiring finished basements to have some type of direct exit via window or door does not apply to finished basements that were previously approved before the law.

Here is more information on the property in question http://www.mlsfinder.com/nj_trend/johnluca/index.cfm?action=…

For more information on other homes in this area. square footage and price range please call me at 302-740-5872 – we're here to help your sort through issues like this.

Sincerely, John Luca

Dear Millieb..under normal conditions the square footage listed on a home should not include the basement area...This is a split level home and the total square footage should be a combination of the ground floor and second and third....if you click on the listing information button...you will see it is listed with Prudential Fox & Roach REALTORS..once there.... click on client services or call them at 866 486 5636 and ask to speak to the listing agent to confirm your questions...

Good Luck and Happy New Year....Roy Minieri North Brunswick, NJ

Millie, it should reflect living space. Basements need to have egresses to be given any credit towards sq. ft