Three Types Of Legal Descriptions In Real Estate
When it comes to real estate transactions, legal descriptions are important in defining and identifying the property being sold. Legal descriptions are used to avoid confusion and ensure that the buyer and seller are on the same page. In this article, we will discuss the three types of legal descriptions in real estate.
1. Metes and Bounds
The metes and bounds legal description is one of the oldest and most traditional ways of describing land. This method is based on physical features of the land such as natural landmarks, trees, and bodies of water. The description starts at a known point called the point of beginning, and then follows the perimeter of the property using a series of angles and distances.
Metes and bounds descriptions are often used for irregularly shaped properties or rural land where there are no lot numbers or street addresses.
2. Lot and Block
The lot and block legal description is a more modern and standardized way of describing land. This method is used in subdivisions where the land has been divided into lots and assigned block numbers. The description includes the lot number, block number, and the name of the subdivision.
Lot and block descriptions are easy to read and understand, but they are not as precise as metes and bounds descriptions. They are often used in urban areas where the land has been developed into subdivisions.
3. Government Rectangular Survey
The government rectangular survey legal description is a system used by the United States government to describe land in public domain states. This method is based on a grid system of townships and ranges, which are divided into sections. Each section is one square mile and is identified by a number.
The legal description includes the township, range, and section number. This method is commonly used in western states where there is a large amount of public land.
Conclusion
In conclusion, legal descriptions are an important part of real estate transactions. They help define and identify the property being sold and avoid confusion between the buyer and seller. The three types of legal descriptions in real estate are metes and bounds, lot and block, and government rectangular survey. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of method depends on the type of property being sold and the location of the property.