metes and bounds description real estate

Understanding Metes and Bounds Description in Real Estate

When it comes to identifying property boundaries, two primary systems are used in the United States: the Rectangular Survey System and the Metes and Bounds system. While both methods have their own set of rules and procedures, they differ significantly in how they approach land description.

The Rectangular Survey System is a widely used method that divides land into a grid of rectangles, making it easier to identify property boundaries. This system was established in 1785 by President Thomas Jefferson as part of the Land Ordinance Act. The grid is divided into smaller sections known as quadrangles, townships, sections, half-sections, and quarter-sections, which are used to describe property boundaries in most of the United States.

On the other hand, Metes and Bounds surveys are still used in many states and differ from the Public Land Survey System. Instead of relying on a grid, this system identifies objects on the land, measurements, and compass directions to define property boundaries. This method was also used before the establishment of the Rectangular Survey System.

The Metes and Bounds system is particularly useful in areas where the landscape is more complex or irregular, making it difficult to use the rectangular survey system. This method requires a detailed description of the land features, including measurements and directions, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.

In conclusion, both the Rectangular Survey System and the Metes and Bounds system are used to identify property boundaries in the United States. While the Rectangular Survey System is more widely used, the Metes and Bounds method remains a vital tool for land description in many states. Understanding the differences between these two systems is essential for real estate professionals, surveyors, and anyone involved in land transactions.

Metes and bounds description real estate