In a general sense, a description is a statement that provides a detailed account of something. In various fields, a description serves to specify attributes, dimensions, characteristics, and other relevant information about an entity, object, or concept.
Description in Real Estate
Legal Description of Property
In real estate, a description refers to the formal portrayal of the dimensions and location of a piece of property. This type of description is pivotal in deeds, leases, sales contracts, and mortgage contracts related to real property.
Methods of Legal Description
Government Rectangular Survey
The Government Rectangular Survey, also known as the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), is a method of subdividing and describing land in the United States. This system divides land into rectangular sections and townships.
Lot and Block
The Lot and Block method involves describing property through a recorded map or plat. This method assigns a lot number and block number to parcels of land within a subdivision.
Metes and Bounds
The Metes and Bounds method describes land by specifying the distances (metes) and directions (bounds) from a set starting point and following the property boundaries.
Plat
A plat is a detailed map, often used to define property boundaries, subdivide tracts of land, and show the graphical format of various parcels.
Historical Context
Descriptions have been a cornerstone of documentation for centuries. In real estate, the formalization of descriptions traces back to early property deeds and land grants, which required precise delineation to avoid disputes and ensure rightful ownership.
Applicability
Descriptions are universally applicable across various fields:
- Job Descriptions: Detailed outlines of roles and responsibilities in employment settings.
- Product Descriptions: Essential for marketing, detailing features, and specifications to consumers.
- Legal Descriptions: Vital for identifying and transacting real property.
Comparisons with Related Terms
- Narrative: Unlike a general description, a narrative often tells a story or provides an account over time.
- Specification: More technical and precise, often used in engineering and manufacturing to detail exact requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is a legal description important in real estate?
Legal descriptions ensure that the property in question is precisely and correctly identified, which is crucial in legal documents to avoid disputes.
What is the difference between a narrative description and a legal description?
A narrative description is more abstract and general, often providing an overall account. A legal description is specific, technical, and used for formal purposes like legal documents.
Can a property have more than one type of legal description?
Yes, properties can be described using one or more methods such as Government Rectangular Survey, Lot and Block, or Metes and Bounds.
References
- National Archives and Records Administration. “The Public Land Survey System (PLSS)”. Link
- Real Estate Law. “Legal Descriptions and Boundaries.” Link
Summary
Descriptions are essential tools for providing comprehensive and precise details about entities or objects in various contexts, especially within real estate through formal legal descriptions. Understanding the different methods and their usages can significantly enhance clarity and prevent disputes.
