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Why Buy A Property Survey

Aug. 31st, 2010
in Real Estate
by Tracy Barnes

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There are many different varieties of land surveys. Residential land surveys are one of the most common, and are the kind of survey most likely encountered by the general public. Residential land surveying involves the precise measurements of the boundaries for a certain section of real estate. This method may also be called a boundary survey. Land surveys can be used in the case of property disputes or before you build on the land; title and lending companies may also require a land survey showing structures on your property.

Residential land surveying is much more complicated than simply measuring the boundaries of the land according to the property deed. Land surveyors actually research then plot the actual boundaries for the property. One step that is often forgotten about by those considering a survey on their land is the research that begins before any of the actual measurements may be taken.

The first step of any land survey is to search for any records about the property. Examples include title certificates, deeds, and other papers. Then, the land surveyor researches past surveys, easements, together with other records which may influence his findings. The majority of today’s homes are constructed on property that was sold after dividing up a larger section of property; this can make the survey’s job challenging, particularly if this division was not surveyed or recorded properly.

When the surveyor understands the historic boundaries of the actual property, the land surveyor will need to take the measurements of the land, determining whether the in-use boundaries conflict with the boundaries recorded in records or past surveys. Various points are marked, usually using stakes, to make re-surveying the land easier at some point in the future.

The measurements are taken by using a transit and tape measure, or a digital tool known as an EDM. Today, GPS can also be useful for land surveys, though not usually in areas that are heavily wooded. Newer technology is allowing residential land surveying to get undertaken with very accurate results.

Usually, a land surveyor will measure each location multiple times, averaging the results to determine the true position of that point. The location of boundaries and easements will then be marked on your land. when the measurements are complete and have been marked on the land, the land surveyor will generally walk the exact property together with you, pointing out the landmarks measuring each point, such as a plastic or metal stake. Then, the surveyor will advise you on any differences between your current survey and previous surveys or records of the land, including any areas where neighboring property owners have encroached on the land.

Each time a professional land survey is complete, the exact property lines as stated from the licensed surveyor end up being the legal boundaries of your property. Usually, these boundary lines do not differ significantly from any previously accepted land boundaries, but this isn’t always the situation. In some situations, your neighbors must also get a residential land survey conducted also, if you find a boundary dispute. Getting the property surveyed from a residential land surveyor can provide you with peace of mind while you gain certainty about the exact boundaries of your property.

Learn more about land survey. Stop by Travis Ludlow’s site where you can find out all about alta survey and what it can do for you.

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