What is RSF in Real Estate?

What is RSF?

In real estate, "RSF" stands for "Rentable Square Feet." It refers to the total square footage for which a tenant is charged rent in a commercial property. This measurement typically includes not just the actual office or unit space (usable square feet or USF) that a tenant occupies but also a pro-rata share of the common areas in the building, like lobbies, hallways, and restrooms. The inclusion of these common areas is what differentiates RSF from USF. In many commercial leases, the rent is calculated based on the RSF.

How is RSF Used in Multifamily Real Estate?

In multifamily properties, RSF helps both landlords and tenants understand:

1. Rent Calculation: RSF is primarily used to determine the rent. In multifamily units, the rent is often quoted per square foot. Therefore, the RSF is multiplied by the rate per square foot to calculate the total rent.
2. Lease Agreements: RSF figures are often stated in lease agreements. This clarifies the amount of space a tenant is renting and helps in avoiding disputes over space and rent calculations.
3. Comparing Properties: For tenants, RSF allows for a more accurate comparison of different properties. It provides a clear understanding of how much space they're getting for their money.
4. Revenue Estimation for Landlords: Landlords use RSF to estimate potential revenue from a property. By knowing the total rentable space, they can project income based on current market rates.
5. Marketing Properties: RSF can be an effective marketing tool. Properties with more efficient layouts (more RSF in relation to the Gross Square Footage or GSF) can be more attractive to potential tenants.
6. Financial Analysis and Valuation: For investment purposes, understanding the RSF of a property is crucial for financial analysis and valuation. It's a key metric in determining a property's income-generating potential.
7. Space Management: In property management, RSF helps in effectively allocating and managing space, ensuring that all available space is utilized and accounted for in terms of rent.

In some cases, RSF might include a tenant's exclusive space AND a proportionate share of common areas (like hallways, lobbies, and amenities), depending on how the lease is structured. This can vary greatly from property to property and should be clearly defined in lease agreements.