The Art of Discovering the Legal Description of Property

As a property owner or potential buyer, understanding the legal description of a property is crucial. The legal description serves as a unique identifier for a piece of land and is used in legal documents, deeds, and contracts. It provides boundaries and locations of the property and is essential for conducting real estate transactions, resolving property disputes, and determining property taxes. In this blog post, we will explore the various methods and resources for finding the legal description of a property.

Understanding Legal Descriptions

Legal descriptions are typically detailed and precise, using a combination of metes and bounds, lot and block numbers, and subdivision names. The legal description may also include references to landmarks, survey markers, and adjacent properties. It is important to note that legal descriptions are distinct from the street address or tax parcel number and are essential for accurately identifying a property.

Methods for Finding Legal Descriptions

There are several methods for obtaining the legal description of a property:

Method	Description
Property Deed	A property deed is a legal document that conveys ownership of a property. The legal description is typically included in the deed and can be obtained from the county recorder`s office.
Property Survey	A property survey is a detailed map of the property, including boundary lines and dimensions. The legal description may be included in the survey report.
Online Property Records	Many county assessor`s offices and real estate websites provide online access to property records, including legal descriptions.
Title Insurance Policy	A title insurance policy contains a legal description of the property and is obtained during the purchase of the property.

Case Study: The Importance of Accurate Legal Descriptions

In a recent property dispute case in [insert case location], the legal description of a property played a critical role in resolving a boundary dispute between two neighboring landowners. The accurate legal description provided clarity on the property boundaries, ultimately preventing a costly legal battle.

Resources for Finding Legal Descriptions

For those seeking to find the legal description of a property, there are several valuable resources:

• County Recorder`s Office: Visit county recorder`s office website obtain property deeds records.
• Professional Surveyors: Consult licensed surveyors provide accurate property surveys legal descriptions.
• Online Property Databases: Utilize online databases real estate websites offer property records legal descriptions.
• Title Companies: Contact title insurance companies access title insurance policies containing legal descriptions.

Unlocking Secrets

By understanding the importance of legal descriptions and utilizing the available resources, property owners and real estate professionals can unlock the secrets of identifying and describing properties with precision and accuracy. Whether for legal transactions, property disputes, or simply gaining a deeper understanding of real estate, the legal description of a property is a valuable tool that should not be overlooked.

Top 10 Legal Questions About Finding the Legal Description of Property

Question	Answer
1. What is a legal description of a property?	A legal description is a detailed way of identifying a particular piece of real estate. It provides a precise outline of the boundaries and location of the property, allowing for accurate identification.
2. Where can I find the legal description of a property?	The legal description of a property can usually be found on the property deed, property tax records, or the title report. It is an essential document for any real estate transaction or ownership transfer.
3. Why is the legal description of a property important?	The legal description is crucial for accurately identifying and locating a property. It is used in legal documents, deeds, mortgages, and property surveys. Accurate legal description, confusion disputes property boundaries ownership.
4. Can the legal description of a property change?	Yes, the legal description of a property can change due to various factors such as subdivision, consolidation, or boundary line adjustments. Any changes must be accurately recorded and updated in the official property records.
5. What information does a legal description typically include?	A legal description typically includes the lot number, block number, subdivision name, metes and bounds description, and reference to plats or surveys. It provides a detailed and precise outline of the property`s boundaries.
6. How can I interpret a legal description of a property?	Interpreting a legal description requires an understanding of land surveying and property law. It often involves reading metes and bounds descriptions, understanding reference points, and deciphering surveyor`s language. Consulting a professional surveyor or real estate attorney may be necessary for accurate interpretation.
7. Can I use GPS coordinates as a legal description of a property?	While GPS coordinates can provide precise location data, they are not typically used as the sole legal description of a property. The legal description usually includes a combination of metes and bounds, subdivisions, and reference points to ensure accurate identification and location.
8. What I if find legal description property?	If you cannot find the legal description of a property, you may need to consult the county assessor`s office, property records office, or a real estate attorney. It is essential to have an accurate legal description for any property-related transactions or legal matters.
9. Can I create my own legal description of a property?	Creating a legal description of a property requires expertise in land surveying and property law. It is typically not recommended for individuals to create their own legal descriptions, as accuracy and compliance with legal standards are crucial. Professional assistance from a surveyor or attorney is advisable.
10. How often should I review the legal description of my property?	It is advisable to review the legal description of your property whenever there are changes such as property improvements, boundary adjustments, or subdivision. Keeping the legal description updated and accurate is essential for protecting your property rights and preventing disputes.

Professional Legal Contract: How to Find Legal Description of Property

This contract (“Contract”) is entered into by and between the undersigned parties relating to the legal description of property. This Contract legally binding enforceable.

Clause 1: Definitions
1.1 “Legal Description” refers to the specific method of identifying and locating a property using a written description such as metes and bounds, lot and block, or government rectangular survey.
1.2 “Property” refers real estate land subject Contract.

Clause 2: Obligations
2.1 The parties agree to conduct a thorough search of public records, including county or city records, to find the legal description of the property in question.
2.2 The parties agree to seek the assistance of a licensed surveyor or real estate professional to obtain the legal description if necessary.

Clause 3: Legal Compliance
3.1 The parties agree to comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and legal practices in obtaining and verifying the legal description of the property.
3.2 The parties acknowledge that the legal description is an essential component of any property transaction and must be accurate and legally valid.

Clause 4: Governing Law
4.1 This Contract shall governed construed accordance laws state property located.

In witness whereof, the parties have executed this Contract as of the date first written above:

______________________ ______________________

Party A Party B