Definition
Frontage is a term used in real estate to describe the linear distance a piece of land spans along a natural or constructed feature such as a lake, river, street, or highway. This measure is important because it affects the accessibility, visibility, and potentially the value of the property. For example, a property with more street frontage may be more desirable for commercial purposes due to better visibility and access.
Examples
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Residential Property:
- A house with 100 feet of street frontage in a suburban neighborhood benefits from good road access and potentially more street parking availability.
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Commercial Property:
- A retail store with 50 feet of highway frontage could attract more customers due to higher visibility from passing traffic.
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Waterfront Property:
- A lakefront vacation home with 200 feet of lake frontage offers better views and more space for water activities compared to properties with less frontage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does frontage affect property value?
Frontage can significantly impact property value. Properties with more frontage, especially along desirable areas such as popular streets, lakeshores, or highways, typically have higher market values due to better accessibility and visibility.
2. Is street frontage the same as road frontage?
Yes, street frontage and road frontage essentially refer to the same concept, describing the linear distance along which a property adjoins a street or road.
3. How can I measure the frontage of my property?
To measure the frontage of your property, you can use a tape measure or survey equipment along the boundary line that touches the street, water body, or other defined feature.
4. Does frontage play a role in zoning laws?
Yes, frontage can affect zoning laws and regulations. Some local zoning ordinances require a certain amount of frontage for new developments to ensure appropriate access and spacing.
5. How does waterfront frontage differ from street frontage?
Waterfront frontage refers specifically to the linear distance along a water body, such as a lake or river, while street frontage refers to the length along a street or road. Both can influence property values, but their impacts can vary depending on location and use.
1. Setback
The minimum distance a building must be from property lines, often influenced by the amount of frontage.
2. Lot Depth
The distance between the front and rear lot lines, perpendicular to the frontage.
3. Easement
A right to cross or otherwise use someone else’s land for a specified purpose, such as utility access, which can impact frontage use.
4. Zoning
Regulations governing land use, which can stipulate frontage requirements for different types of properties.
5. Curb Appeal
The visual attractiveness of a property as seen from the street, often enhanced by ample frontage.
Online Resources
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Investopedia Real Estate Glossary
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National Association of Realtors®
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Zillow Real Estate and Rentals
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American Planning Association
References
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Smith, James H. The Real Estate Investor’s Handbook: A Practical Guide to Financial Success. McGraw-Hill, 2019.
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Kennedy, David. The Complete Guide to Real Estate Finance for Investment Properties. John Wiley & Sons, 2012.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
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Lindahl, David. Emerging Real Estate Markets: How to Find and Profit from Up-and-Coming Areas. John Wiley & Sons, 2007.
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Brueggeman, William B. and Fisher, Jeffrey D. Real Estate Finance and Investments (16th Edition). McGraw-Hill Education, 2018.
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Gallinelli, Frank. What Every Real Estate Investor Needs to Know About Cash Flow… And 36 Other Key Financial Measures (Updated Edition). McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.
Real Estate Basics: Frontage Fundamentals Quiz
### Does frontage only refer to the distance along a street?
- [ ] Yes, frontage pertains exclusively to streets.
- [x] No, frontage can refer to any linearly measured boundary.
- [ ] It applies only to residential properties.
- [ ] Only commercial properties are considered.
> **Explanation:** Frontage refers to the linear distance along a wide range of boundaries including streets, lakes, rivers, and highways, not just streets alone.
### Can additional frontage increase property value?
- [x] Yes, more frontage often increases a property's value.
- [ ] No, frontage has no bearing on property value.
- [ ] Only if the property is residential.
- [ ] Only in commercial estates.
> **Explanation:** Additional frontage typically increases property value, especially in desirable locations like commercial streets or waterfronts due to enhanced visibility and access.
### Is street frontage considered in zoning laws?
- [x] Yes, zoning laws often include frontage requirements.
- [ ] No, zoning laws do not consider frontage.
- [ ] Only for agricultural properties.
- [ ] Only for rural areas.
> **Explanation:** Zoning laws often specify frontage requirements to ensure appropriate property development, access, and spacing in various locales.
### How does commercial frontage compare to residential frontage in terms of importance?
- [x] Both can be equally important but for different reasons.
- [ ] Commercial frontage is always more important.
- [ ] Residential frontage has no significant impact.
- [ ] Both are equally unimportant.
> **Explanation:** Commercial and residential frontage can both be equally important. Commercial uses often benefit from visibility and access, while residential frontage might focus on appeal and access.
### What common characteristic does frontage share across different property types?
- [ ] All frontage measures must be identical.
- [ ] Frontage is typically where the property's address is assigned.
- [x] Frontage generally forms the basis for easier access and visibility.
- [ ] Frontage is unrelated to property access.
> **Explanation:** Frontage generally facilitates easier access and increased visibility, whether for inviting residential curb appeal or ensuring commercial foot traffic.
### For a lakeside property, which factor of frontage is most crucial?
- [x] The direct linear distance along the lake.
- [ ] The depth of the lot perpendicular to the lake.
- [ ] The nearest road's proximity.
- [ ] The type of building on the property.
> **Explanation:** The crucial factor is the direct linear distance along the lake, improving access to the water, views, and potential value.
### Should property frontage influence site development plans?
- [x] Yes, it should play a key role in planning.
- [ ] No, it should be the least consideration.
- [ ] Only if dealing with rural properties.
- [ ] Not unless explicitly mentioned in the title deed.
> **Explanation:** Property frontage should play a vital role in site development due to its influence on access, visibility, and potential land use.
### What is the importance of frontage for a retail property?
- [x] Enhances visibility and potentially customer traffic.
- [ ] Marginally affects building height.
- [ ] Mostly influences the landscaping decisions.
- [ ] No significant role in retail settings.
> **Explanation:** Retail properties significantly benefit from substantial frontage which enhances visibility and access, crucial factors for customer traffic.
### In real estate investment, why is the measurement of frontage important during appraisal?
- [x] Because it directly impacts property desirability and value.
- [ ] To establish the nearest bus stop distance.
- [ ] To dictate historical significance.
- [ ] To fine-tune the architectural beauty of buildings.
> **Explanation:** The measurement of frontage is essential during appraisal because it influences the desirability and market value of a property, considering factors like access and exposure.
### Which aspect might local governments regulate in relation to frontage?
- [ ] The interior decor style of homes.
- [ ] The specific manufacturers of construction materials used.
- [x] Minimum required linear frontage for new lots.
- [ ] The average tree height along the frontage.
> **Explanation:** Local governments often regulate the minimum required linear frontage in zoning laws to ensure proper development and access standards.
