Metes and bounds is a system used in real estate to describe the boundaries of a parcel of land by specifying its perimeter through a series of measurements and directions. This method relies on physical landmarks, such as monuments, natural features, and compass directions, to define the boundaries of the property.
Key aspects of metes and bounds in real estate include:
1. Measurements and Directions: Metes refer to the measurements of linear distances along the boundaries of the property, while bounds refer to the directional bearings or courses that define the boundaries. For example, a metes and bounds description may specify distances in feet or meters, along with directions such as “north 45 degrees east” or “south 30 degrees west.”
2. Starting Point: Metes and bounds descriptions typically begin at a designated starting point, known as the point of beginning (POB), which serves as the reference point for the boundary measurements and directions. The POB is often described in relation to a known landmark, such as a corner marker, survey monument, or intersection of roads.
3. Boundary Markers: Metes and bounds descriptions may reference physical landmarks or boundary markers, such as trees, stones, fences, or other monuments, that indicate the corners or turning points along the perimeter of the property. These markers help establish the precise location of the property boundaries and provide reference points for surveyors and property owners.
4. Compass Directions: Directions in metes and bounds descriptions are typically expressed in compass bearings or angles, such as north, south, east, and west, along with degrees and minutes. These directional references help orient the boundaries of the property relative to the cardinal directions and establish the overall shape and orientation of the parcel.
5. Closure: A metes and bounds description should ideally form a closed loop or polygon, where the final boundary returns to the starting point, thus enclosing the entire parcel of land. This closure ensures that the description accurately defines the boundaries of the property and facilitates accurate surveying and mapping.
Metes and bounds descriptions are commonly used in legal documents, deeds, surveys, and property records to convey the location and extent of real property. They provide a detailed and precise means of describing property boundaries, allowing property owners, surveyors, and real estate professionals to accurately identify and delineate parcels of land. Additionally, metes and bounds descriptions are often used in conjunction with other methods of land description, such as lot and block descriptions in subdivision plats or government survey systems like the Public Land Survey System (PLSS).
