What You Need To Know About Surveys in North Dallas
Here’s what you need to know about surveys when buying a home in North Dallas, Texas:
What is a Survey?
A survey is a detailed map created by a licensed surveyor that outlines the property’s boundaries, structures, easements, and any encroachments.
It’s used to confirm exactly what land is included in the sale, identify any boundary issues, and ensure you know what you’re buying.
How Do I Know if it’s Updated and Accurate?
Check the Date: Older surveys might not reflect recent changes to the property or neighboring lots. Look for a recent date to ensure it accounts for current conditions.
Ask for the T-47 Affidavit: In Texas, sellers often provide a T-47 Residential Real Property Affidavit along with an existing survey. The T-47 confirms that nothing has changed on the property since the survey was done.
Verify with the Title Company & Lender: Your title company and lender will review the survey and may require a new one if it’s too old or doesn’t meet their standards. If that’s the case, you can hire a licensed surveyor to get an updated map.
What Else Should I Know?
Negotiation Point: If a new survey is needed, you can negotiate who pays—sometimes the seller, sometimes the buyer.
Litigation Prevention: Having an accurate, recent survey helps prevent boundary disputes and can save time and money down the line.
Informing Future Decisions: With a correct survey in hand, you’ll have a clear picture of property lines, which is essential if you plan improvements like adding a fence, deck, or pool.
In short, the survey ensures you know exactly what you’re buying, reduces the risk of surprises, and gives you confidence moving forward with your purchase.
