Real Estate Survey in Maryland and Virginia
Save your survey. Frame it. It's one of the most valuable documents you own.
The survey is more than just a pretty picture. It is a record of your boundaries. Save it. Your survey is also helpful to make sure you do not exceed the boundaries of your lot when installing fencing, sheds, patios or landscaping.
Click image to enlarge
survey drawing
SAVE THE SURVEY YOU GET AT SETTLEMENT. IT WILL HELP YOU IN THE FUTURE IF THERE ARE DISPUTES ABOUT BOUNDARIES, IF YOU INSTALL FENCING AND WHEN YOU SELL.
What is the real estate survey??
The real estate survey, as used in the transfer of real estate in Maryland or Virginia, is a drawing showing the boundaries
of a lot, the location and outline of the home or any other structures on the property, including the location of fences,
easements and other characteristics of the property.
Who needs to have property surveyed??
Home buyers who are using mortgage financing to purchase their home. Most all lenders will require a drawing of
the results of a survey prior to settlement. The title company or title attorney will order the survey, review the
survey and render an opinion to the fact that the legal description on the deed accurately describes the property
being transferred. Any additions, fencing, other structures will be shown on the drawing.
Why do we need a survey of property we are purchasing??
Surveys are helpful in the case of a claim against the property owner for encroachment because the survey will
show the condition of the property and boundaries at the time the owner purchased. They also show utility easements
which can save homeowners from damaging utility lines when installing additions or landscaping.
How will I use my survey??
Surveys obtained at purchase can usually be used for approximately 10 years to satisfy the county permitting office
when obtaining a survey to install fencing.
Survey companies are licensed and adhere to a strict regimen of training and technical proficiency.
TYPES OF SURVEYS
There are several types of surveys in addition to the house survey you will receive when you purchase your home.
House location survey
Boundary survey (American Land Title Association)
Topographic or site map survey
Plot survey (subdivision/boundary alteration plots)
Construction survey
Elevation certification (e.g. for flood insurance)
If you need more than a house location survey, your lender may suggest it or your agent may suggest that, for your protection, you have more than the usual house location survey.
SURVEY OF PROPERTY WITH ACREAGE
Be prepared for a cost of $175-$300 for a normal house location survey for properties up to 2-3 acres. However, property with significant
acreage will cost more. Be prepared to pay approximately $120 per acre.