How to Verify Lot Size When Buying a Home: A Comprehensive Guide
When purchasing a home, it’s essential to have accurate information about the property, including the lot size. The lot size can impact a variety of factors, from property value and development potential to landscaping and outdoor living space. However, verifying the lot size can sometimes be a challenge, especially if there are discrepancies between different sources of information. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various methods and resources you can use to verify lot size when buying a home, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of the property you’re acquiring.
Why Lot Size Matters
Before diving into the methods for verifying lot size, let’s consider why it’s important to have accurate information about the size of a property.
- Property Value: The size of a lot can significantly impact the overall value of a property. Larger lots often command higher prices, especially in areas where land is scarce or in high demand.
- Development Potential: The lot size can determine the potential for future development or expansion of the property. Zoning regulations and building codes often have specific requirements related to lot size and coverage.
- Landscaping and Outdoor Living Space: The size of the lot can influence the amount of outdoor space available for landscaping, gardening, and recreational activities. For homebuyers who value outdoor living, lot size can be a key consideration.
- Property Boundaries and Encroachments: Accurate lot size information is crucial for understanding property boundaries and identifying potential encroachments or disputes with neighboring properties.
Real estate agent Sarah Thompson notes, “Verifying lot size is an essential step in the due diligence process when buying a home. It helps buyers make informed decisions and avoid potential surprises or issues down the road.”
Methods for Verifying Lot Size
There are several methods and resources available for verifying lot size when buying a home. Let’s explore each of them in detail.
1. Property Deed and Legal Description
The property deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of a property from the seller to the buyer. It typically includes a legal description of the property, which may include information about the lot size and boundaries.
To obtain a copy of the property deed, you can:
- Request a copy from the seller or their real estate agent
- Visit the local county recorder’s office or land registry
- Hire a title company to conduct a title search and provide a copy of the deed
When reviewing the property deed, look for the legal description section, which may include lot dimensions, boundary lines, and total square footage or acreage.
Real estate attorney Michael Davis advises, “Carefully review the legal description in the property deed to ensure it matches the lot size information provided by other sources. If there are discrepancies, further investigation may be necessary.”
2. Property Survey
A property survey is a detailed map or diagram of a property, prepared by a licensed surveyor. It provides accurate information about the lot size, boundaries, and any encroachments or easements on the property.
To obtain a property survey, you can:
- Ask the seller if they have a recent survey available
- Hire a licensed surveyor to conduct a new survey of the property
- Check with the local building department or planning office to see if they have a survey on file
A property survey is often the most reliable and accurate method for verifying lot size, as it is prepared by a professional surveyor using precise measuring tools and techniques.
Surveyor Jennifer Thompson notes, “A property survey provides a clear and legally binding description of the property boundaries and lot size. It can help avoid disputes with neighbors and ensure that any future development complies with local zoning regulations.”
3. Assessor’s Records and Property Tax Documents
Local government assessor’s offices maintain records of properties within their jurisdiction for tax assessment purposes. These records often include information about lot size, as well as other property characteristics.
To access assessor’s records, you can:
- Visit the local assessor’s office in person
- Search for property records online through the assessor’s website
- Request copies of property tax documents from the seller or their real estate agent
Assessor’s records can provide a good starting point for verifying lot size, but it’s important to keep in mind that these records may not always be up-to-date or accurate.
Real estate investor David Johnson shares, “While assessor’s records can be helpful, I always recommend verifying the information with other sources, such as a property survey or the legal description in the deed.”
4. Zoning Maps and Land Use Records
Local zoning maps and land use records can provide information about the designated use and development potential of a property, which can be helpful in verifying lot size.
To access zoning maps and land use records, you can:
- Visit the local planning or zoning department in person
- Search for zoning information online through the local government website
- Request copies of zoning documents from the seller or their real estate agent
Zoning maps and land use records can help you understand the minimum lot size requirements for a particular zone, as well as any restrictions on development or land use.
Urban planner Sarah Davis advises, “Reviewing zoning maps and land use records can provide valuable context about the property and its potential uses. It can also help identify any discrepancies between the lot size and the zoning requirements.”
5. Online Mapping Tools and Satellite Imagery
With the advent of online mapping tools and satellite imagery, it’s easier than ever to get a visual representation of a property and its lot size.
Some popular online mapping tools include:
- Google Maps
- Google Earth
- County GIS (Geographic Information System) maps
- Zillow and other real estate websites with mapping features
These tools allow you to view aerial or satellite imagery of a property, measure distances and areas, and even see property boundary lines in some cases.
Real estate agent Michael Thompson notes, “Online mapping tools can be a helpful supplement to other methods of verifying lot size. They provide a quick and easy way to visualize the property and its surroundings.”
However, it’s important to keep in mind that online mapping tools may not always be accurate or up-to-date, and should not be relied upon as the sole source of lot size information.
Reconciling Discrepancies and Seeking Professional Assistance
In some cases, you may encounter discrepancies between different sources of lot size information. If this happens, it’s important to take steps to reconcile the differences and ensure that you have accurate information.
Some strategies for reconciling discrepancies include:
- Comparing multiple sources of information and identifying the most reliable or authoritative source
- Seeking clarification from the seller or their real estate agent
- Consulting with a real estate attorney or surveyor to review the information and provide professional guidance
Real estate attorney Jennifer Davis advises, “If there are significant discrepancies in lot size information, it’s wise to seek professional assistance from a real estate attorney or surveyor. They can help you navigate any legal or technical issues and ensure that you have a clear understanding of the property you’re buying.”
Conclusion
Verifying lot size is a critical step in the homebuying process, as it can impact property value, development potential, and overall enjoyment of the property. By using a combination of methods and resources, including property deeds, surveys, assessor’s records, zoning maps, and online mapping tools, you can gather accurate information about the lot size and make an informed decision about your purchase.
Remember to review multiple sources of information, reconcile any discrepancies, and seek professional assistance if needed. With careful due diligence and attention to detail, you can ensure that you have a clear understanding of the property you’re acquiring and avoid potential issues down the road.
Real estate mentor Sarah Thompson shares, “Verifying lot size may seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of buying a home, but it can have a big impact on your long-term satisfaction with the property. By taking the time to thoroughly investigate and confirm the lot size, you can proceed with confidence and peace of mind, knowing that you’ve made a well-informed decision.”
