metes and bounds property description example

Metes and bounds property description example how to#

The lot and block system is a method of describing real estate by referring to a specific lot number and block number within a recorded subdivision or plat map. Knowing the different types of legal descriptions isn’t as important as knowing where to find the legal description to the specific property being conveyed. These distinctions are often irrelevant to the deed preparation process. Legal descriptions generally use one of two methods: the lot and block system or the metes and bounds system. The wording of the legal description can vary depending on the type. For example, the body of the deed may refer to the property as “… the property described on Exhibit ‘A’ attached hereto.” Exhibit “A” will be attached to the deed and contain the legal description.

If so, the body of the deed will usually reference the attached legal description. Sometimes, the legal description is attached as an exhibit to the deed. See the examples below for an illustration. The legal description is often set in double-indented, single-line font or set in boldface type to set it apart from the rest of the deed. Legal descriptions are usually preceded by words of introduction, such as “… described as follows.” This language indicates that the legal description is about to begin. It is usually easy to find by looking for these clues: The legal description is usually contained in the body of the deed. The best place to find a legal description is usually the most recent deed to the property (the deed that conveyed the property to the current owner).

Metes and bounds property description example how to#

How to Locate the Legal Description on the Prior Deed to the Property All deeds are attorney-designed and guaranteed to be in a format that meets state recording requirements. Our online deed preparation service can create a deed in minutes. Need to create a deed to transfer real estate? This ensures that the description is reliable and less prone to errors compared to descriptions based on addresses or tax identification numbers. Legal descriptions in previous deeds are typically prepared by professionals, such as surveyors or attorneys, who have the expertise to accurately describe a property’s boundaries. Property addresses and tax identification numbers may not satisfy this requirement, which could result in the document being deemed invalid or unenforceable. In many jurisdictions, using a proper legal description in deeds and other legal documents is a requirement.

Property addresses and tax identification numbers, on the other hand, may not provide enough detail to distinguish the property from neighboring properties or to define its exact boundaries. A legal description from the previous deed is designed to uniquely identify a specific parcel of land, regardless of any changes in street names, addresses, or property boundaries. This consistency can help avoid disputes and potential title issues that may arise due to discrepancies in property descriptions. Using the legal description from the previous deed ensures consistency in the conveyance of the property and helps maintain a clear chain of title. The most important reason to use the legal description from the prior deed is to ensure that the property being transferred is the same as the property that was received. Using the prior deed as the source of the legal description provides several legal safeguards: When preparing a new deed to real estate, it is best to get the legal description from the most recent deed to the property. How to Add a Legal Description to a Property Deed A proper legal description serves as the foundation for transferring real estate and is required in deeds, mortgages, and other legal documents. A legal description is a written description of a real estate that is specific enough to uniquely identify it as distinct from all other properties.