Essential Tips Before Buying Property: Insights from a Land Surveyor

Dear Subscribers,

Welcome to the second edition of The Surveyor’s Digest! In this publication, we offer valuable insights and practical guidance on land surveying and real estate investment.

In our previous edition, we covered the basics of land surveying and its critical role in property transactions. This time, we’re diving deeper into what you need to know before purchasing property. As a land surveyor, I’ve seen firsthand how missing out on key details can lead to significant challenges down the road.

Here’s a rundown of essential checks to make before investing in property:

1. Know Your Boundaries

Ensure you have a clear understanding of where your property starts and ends. A professional land survey provides a detailed map, helping to prevent potential boundary disputes with neighbors.

2. Watch Out for Easements and Setbacks

- Easements: These are rights that allow others to use part of your land for specific purposes, such as utility access or shared driveways. It’s crucial to know if there are any easements, as they can limit your development options.

- Setbacks: These regulations dictate how close buildings or structures can be to property lines, roads, or other structures. Setbacks ensure proper spacing, maintain aesthetics, and allow for emergency access. Understanding setbacks is key to planning your construction or landscaping projects effectively.

3. Check the Zoning

Find out the zoning regulations for your property. These rules dictate what you can build and how you can use the land. A surveyor can help you navigate these regulations to ensure your plans align with local laws.

4. Understand the Land’s Shape

The land’s topography can affect everything from construction costs to drainage. A survey will reveal any slopes, hills, or low spots that could present challenges.

5. Know the Land’s History

Investigate the property's history to uncover any potential issues like contamination or old structures. A thorough survey can reveal hidden problems that could impact your investment.

6. Title Deed and Ownership

Verify the property’s title deed to ensure the seller has the legal right to sell the property. Check for any encumbrances or disputes.

7. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Confirm that the property complies with local regulations, including building codes and zoning laws. Ensure there are no outstanding legal issues.

8. Look for Flood Risks

Determine if the property is in a flood zone. This can impact insurance costs and future resale value. A surveyor can provide information on flood risks to help you make an informed decision.

My Experience

Recently, I worked with a client who was excited about a property for development. The survey revealed that the land encroached into a designated right-of-way for future road expansion. This discovery meant that the planned road would cut through a substantial part of the property, making it unsuitable for their development goals. Thanks to the survey, my client avoided a potentially costly mistake and chose a different location that aligned better with their needs.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a land survey is not just an additional expense—it’s a smart step to protect your investment. A survey helps you avoid surprises and ensures your new property meets your expectations. Before making a purchase, make sure to get a professional land survey.

I hope you enjoyed this edition of The Surveyor's Digest! If you found this article helpful, consider subscribing to stay updated with more insights on land surveying, real estate, and sustainability. Feel free to share this newsletter with others who might benefit from it. If you have any questions or would like to connect, I’m here to help!