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.
Related Terms§
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.
