What is the purpose of a survey in real estate?

The purpose of a survey in real estate is to determine the property boundaries and easements. This process involves measuring the land and its features to establish precise locations of the property lines, which is crucial for various legal and practical reasons. Accurate surveys help to prevent disputes between neighbors regarding property lines, clarify rights to access through easements, and ensure that the improvements made on the property (like fences or buildings) are within the legal boundaries. Surveys are essential during transactions to provide buyers and sellers with a clear understanding of what is being bought or sold, and they are often required by lenders before closing a real estate deal. This clarity supports both the legal standing of the property and the proper assessment of its value in relation to its designated boundaries.