Mastering the Essentials of Property Descriptions

Understanding the key components and use of property descriptions—essential terms for navigating the real estate world.

What is a Property Description?

A property description is a detailed account of a piece of property, capturing its unique features like size, type, and boundaries.

Legal Description

A legal description is a more precise, formally recognized identification of a property used in official legal documents.

Work Smarter: Examples of Property Descriptions

Consider a case where you are describing a plot in an urban housing project:

Common Property Description

“This pristine plot measures 5,000 sq. ft., optimally located within walking distance of renowned schools and a central marketplace.”

Detailed Legal Description

“Parcel No. 45832, situated in the Parkview Estate, bearing Latitude 34-56-45N and Longitude 78-24-56W. Lot 77, Unit 2, as recorded in the City’s Plat Books, Section III.”

FAQs

Q1. Why is a legal description necessary?

A legal description precisely defines the property for legal and title purposes, avoiding misinterpretation.

Q2. Can I modify a legal description?

Legal descriptions are strictly regulated; any change typically requires formally updating public records.

Q3. How do property descriptions affect real estate transactions?

Known features in a property description can influence the valuation, sale conditions, and tax implications predictably.

Related Terms: deed, plat map, lot, parcel, property boundary.