Why Price Per Square Foot Is Misleading

How Smart Homeowners Can Avoid Leaving Money on the Table

In real estate, “price per square foot” has become one of the most commonly quoted numbers when determining a home’s value. Yet according to Michelle Baydemir, Broker/Owner of Vacay & Co Real Estate in Kissimmee, Florida, this metric is not only oversimplified, it can be downright misleading.

Michelle learned this early in her career during the turbulent years surrounding the 2008 housing crash. As foreclosures surged and values fluctuated dramatically, she saw firsthand that the homes selling for the highest prices weren’t simply the ones with the most square footage, they were the ones with the most desirable features, strongest upgrades, and highest buyer appeal.

This shaped her belief that true property valuation must go far deeper than the square foot number printed on a listing sheet.

Why Price Per Square Foot Fails Homeowners

A common example appears in Florida neighborhoods where entire phases were built using identical floor plans. Even with the same size and layout, one home may command tens of thousands more than another simply because of:

• Premium upgrades

• Designer kitchens

• High-end flooring

• Resort-style outdoor living areas

• Newer systems (roof, AC)

• Furnishings in short-term rental zones

None of these value-boosting features are reflected in a basic price-per-square-foot formula.

“At Vacay & Co Real Estate, we take a comprehensive approach to pricing,” Michelle explains. “Square footage is just one piece of the puzzle. What truly matters is how the home competes in today’s market and what real buyers are willing to pay based on condition, upgrades, location, and current demand.”

Real Results: Outperforming the “Square Footage Only” Agents

This approach isn’t just philosophy; it produces tangible wins for sellers.

Recently, Michelle listed a Davenport property at a price higher than what agents relying solely on square-foot metrics advised. Those agents believed the home shouldn’t exceed a certain number, but Michelle’s strategic market analysis showed its true value was much higher.

The result?

✨ Sold at listing price (unheard of in this current market climate!)
✨ Faster closing timeline
✨ Favorable terms and conditions for the sellers

This outcome wasn’t luck, it was the product of industry expertise, deep market knowledge, and a pricing strategy tailored specifically to the home’s strengths.

Why Sellers Should Demand a Full Market Analysis, Not a Formula

Michelle encourages homeowners and buyers to challenge the idea that value can be defined by a simple calculation.

“Understanding true property value means looking at every factor that contributes to desirability and functionality,” she says. “We review comparable sales, examine unique features, analyze market conditions, and consider what buyers are prioritizing right now.”

This detailed approach helps prevent one of the biggest seller mistakes: undervaluing your home by relying on outdated or oversimplified pricing methods.

Ready to Know What Your Home Is REALLY Worth?

If you're considering selling your Florida home, now or within the next 6 months, a comprehensive market analysis can give you clarity and confidence.

This detailed report will show you:

• Your home’s true competitive value

• Recent comparable sales in your area

• How your upgrades affect pricing

• What buyers are currently paying in your neighborhood

• How to position your home to achieve maximum return

Don’t leave money on the table by relying on price-per-square-foot alone.

Request Your Complimentary Property Market Analysis Today

Let’s ensure your selling decisions are guided by accurate insights, not outdated formulas.

👉 Click here to request your Complimentary Market Analysis:
www.vacayreflorida.com/propertyevaluation

Vacay & Co Real Estate,  Your Florida Home Selling Experts

Michelle Baydemir, Broker-Owner
Specializing in Davenport, Kissimmee, Clermont, Orlando & Disney-Area Vacation and Residential Properties
📧 [email protected]
📱 321-333-1338
🌐 www.vacayreflorida.com