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Gross building area (GBA) differs from GLA for a two- to four-unit property in that GBA:

Correct Answer

C) Includes all floors' area — halls, utility and unfinished included

Why this is correct: For small income properties (2-4 units), Gross Building Area (GBA) includes the total finished and unfinished area of all floors, measured from the exterior walls. This includes hallways, utility rooms, and basements, unlike Gross Living Area (GLA). Why the other choices are wrong: 'Excludes everything situated below the main roofline entirely' is incorrect; GBA includes all enclosed areas. 'Counts only the largest single unit' is not a standard measurement. 'Equals GLA minus the garage space' describes a different adjustment, not the definition of GBA. Exam tip: Use GBA for income properties and GLA for single-family owner-occupied homes. Be consistent when comparing properties.

Answer Options
A
Excludes everything situated below the main roofline entirely
B
Counts only the largest single unit
C
Includes all floors' area — halls, utility and unfinished included
D
Equals GLA minus the garage space

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Why this is correct: For small income properties (2-4 units), Gross Building Area (GBA) includes the total finished and unfinished area of all floors, measured from the exterior walls. This includes hallways, utility rooms, and basements, unlike Gross Living Area (GLA). Why the other choices are wrong: 'Excludes everything situated below the main roofline entirely' is incorrect; GBA includes all enclosed areas. 'Counts only the largest single unit' is not a standard measurement. 'Equals GLA minus the garage space' describes a different adjustment, not the definition of GBA. Exam tip: Use GBA for income properties and GLA for single-family owner-occupied homes. Be consistent when comparing properties.

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