If you’re buying property in Texas, a professional land survey ensures that you’re making a wise investment. Whether you’re buying a lot of land to build your dream home or you’re purchasing a home and intending to build some additions, a survey provides valuable information that can save you time, money and hassle. When it comes to surveying land, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. There are many factors that a skilled surveyor takes into account, and the conditions of your property and the scope of the survey will dictate the price you pay for the service. Read on to learn more about the key variables that influence how much a survey will cost.
Land size
The size of your property in Texas is one of the biggest factors that determines how much a survey will cost. As a general rule, large parcels of land cost more to survey than smaller ones. However, if you’re buying several acres of property, most professional surveyors charge by the acre, so you’ll generally be able to save if you’re buying a lot of land.
Land shape
If you have an irregularly-shaped parcel of land to be surveyed, expect to pay more than if you have a square-shaped lot. Irregularly-shaped land has more corners to monument, which means the surveyor has more work to do. As a general rule, the longer the perimeter that has to be covered, the more you’ll pay for the survey.
Survey type
There are many types of surveys that can be done on a property, and the type of survey you need will directly affect how much the survey will cost. Each one has a specific purpose. Here are some of the most common surveys you might need:
- Boundary survey: This is typically the most basic survey, and it establishes your property lines. For instance, if you’re making a cash purchase of acreage, you need to have the land surveyed to see that you’re getting what you’re paying for.
- Easement survey: You need to know the location of easements so you know where you can install and maintain electric lines, water lines, pipelines and more. If you’re building a new structure on a piece of land, you need an easement survey to know where you have a right to use someone else’s land in order to provide necessary utilities to your own.
- Subdivision survey: If you’re breaking a plot of land into smaller parcels, you’ll need a subdivision survey. A professional surveyor will be able to provide an accurate boundary survey to show you how you can divide the tract.
While paying for the services of an experienced land surveyor might not sound appealing, it’s an important step you need to take when buying property. There are many factors that contribute to how much a survey will cost at your property in Texas, and it’s best to get a professional opinion. Contact D.G. Smyth & Co., Inc. to get an accurate figure for the cost of your survey and to learn more about how this valuable service will help you make smart decisions as you purchase property.