Buying a property can be a lengthy and sometimes stressful journey, but it’s always worthwhile when you get a great deal and friendly neighbors. For one man who bought a 1.5-acre lot in a township, things got off to a rocky start. His neighbor built a privacy fence that crossed over 10 feet into his property.
Image credits: Gustavo Zambelli (not the actual photo)
The new property owner tried to talk casually to his neighbor about it. But the neighbor insisted that “that’s where the property line had always been.” He suggested that if the man wanted to get a survey done, they could discuss it then. The quote for a survey came in at over $2,000, so the man turned to Reddit for advice.
Image credits: freepik (not the actual photo)
When Property Lines Get Crossed
The man was excited about his new purchase, a beautiful 1.5-acre lot. However, his excitement dimmed when he noticed the neighbor’s fence encroaching on his land. When he moved in, attempts to have a friendly chat with his neighbor were met with insistence that the fence was correctly placed.
The Expensive Solution
Realizing that he needed to address the issue, especially since the neighbor remained uncooperative, the man looked into getting a property survey. Unfortunately, the process was costly, with quotes coming in over $2,000.
A property survey can sometimes be essential, especially when you’re dealing with disputes or planning new constructions. Surveyors establish precise boundaries, and acquiring one can help avoid future conflicts.
Surveyors start by looking for original property markers, often buried underground. They conduct thorough measurements and calculations and review municipal, county, and state records.
Image credits: Randy Fath (not the actual photo)
Advice From Reddit
Many respondents on Reddit agreed that getting a survey done was the best route. They emphasized the importance of hiring a reputable land surveying company, despite the higher costs, to ensure accuracy.
Some also recommended checking local government records online. While some records are digitized, others may require a trip to the county office to request copies. In cases with limited information, Geographic Information System (GIS) maps might be a useful, although sometimes paid, resource.
Quality surveyors can be pricey, but they ensure that boundary lines are clear and conflicts are resolved, which can be immensely reassuring for property owners.
What Would You Do?
How would you handle a situation where a neighbor’s fence intrudes on your newly purchased property? Would you try discussing it again with the neighbor, or just pay for the survey? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Remember, good fences make good neighbors, but only if they’re in the right place.
