The Role of Surveying in Real Estate Transactions: Protecting Your Investment

land surveying equipment for property

When buying or selling property, most people focus on price, financing, inspections, and closing dates. But one critical step that often gets less attention is land surveying. At BLAZE Design Inc., we believe a professional land survey is one of the most important tools in a real estate transaction—because it ensures clarity, protects against legal issues, and safeguards your investment for the long term.

Understanding What a Land Survey Actually Does

A land survey confirms the precise boundaries and dimensions of a piece of property. It also maps out physical features, improvements, and any legal restrictions tied to the land. Whether you’re purchasing your first home or transferring a large commercial parcel, a current, accurate survey tells you exactly what you’re dealing with—no assumptions, no guesswork.

Why Buyers Should Insist on a Survey

Purchasing property without a recent survey is a risk. You could end up with less land than you thought, face a dispute over a shared driveway, or discover an easement that limits what you can build.

With a survey, buyers get:

  • Defined boundaries: So you know where your property begins and ends.
  • Clear information about encroachments: If a neighbor’s fence or structure crosses the line, you’ll know before it becomes your problem.
  • Insight into easements and access rights: Critical for understanding if others have the legal right to cross or use your land.
  • Flood zone verification: Which can impact your insurance and plans for construction.

A survey arms buyers with the information they need to move forward confidently—and may even uncover issues that justify renegotiating or canceling the deal.

The Benefits of a Survey for Sellers

If you’re selling property, a professional survey makes your listing stronger. It shows that you’re prepared, upfront, and serious about the transaction. More importantly, it can help you avoid costly disputes and closing delays.

Here’s what a survey does for sellers:

  • Verifies acreage and property dimensions listed in marketing materials.
  • Clarifies any issues before they become problems during closing.
  • Reduces buyer hesitation by showing transparency and accuracy.
  • Speeds up title work and helps meet lender or municipal requirements.

Having a current survey available from the beginning makes the entire process smoother—for you and for the buyer.

The Surveyor’s Role in the Closing Process

Land surveyors support real estate transactions by working alongside title companies, attorneys, lenders, and agents. Their job is to ensure that the legal description of the property is accurate and that the buyer is getting what’s being promised.

At BLAZE Design Inc., we’re frequently called on to provide:

  • Boundary surveys
  • Subdivision surveys
  • Flood elevation certificates
  • ALTA/NSPS surveys for commercial property
  • Boundary line adjustments

Each of these plays a unique role in different types of transactions—but all of them are about reducing risk and ensuring compliance.

Why Outdated Surveys Aren’t Good Enough

Even if a survey was completed years ago, that doesn’t mean it still reflects the current situation. New structures, neighbor activity, zoning changes, or adjustments in legal records can all affect property boundaries or conditions. A fresh, professional survey gives you the most accurate, up-to-date information possible.

Choose BLAZE Design Inc. for Reliable Surveying

With over 40 years of experience in Vermont and New York, BLAZE Design Inc. delivers trustworthy, detailed, and timely surveys for every kind of real estate transaction—from residential lots to commercial developments. As a veteran-owned business, we take pride in precision, integrity, and supporting our clients with professional insight every step of the way.

Reach out to us today at 802-442-2892 to schedule your next survey or speak with our team about your upcoming transaction.