5 Reasons Why You Should Get a Survey Before Buying a Home: Advice from an Atlanta Real Estate Agent

As an Atlanta real estate agent, I understand how important it is to make informed decisions when it comes to buying a home. That's why I highly recommend that you get a survey before making such a significant investment. Here are some reasons why a survey is crucial for any home buyer:

Ensure Accurate Property Lines: A survey will give you a clear and accurate map of the property's boundaries. This is essential when it comes to building any additions to the home or installing a fence. It ensures that you do not encroach on your neighbor's property, and you get the exact land you thought you were purchasing.

Identify Encroachments or Easements: A survey can reveal any encroachments or easements on the property. Encroachments occur when a structure or improvement extends beyond the property line, while easements are rights of way or access that another party has to your property. Maybe you want to add a pool or additional structure. You need to ensure there aren’t power lines or septic lines that can’t be built over. These issues can impact your ability to use the property as you intend, and even result in legal disputes down the line.

Discover Property Defects: A survey can reveal any defects in the property that may not be apparent during a standard home inspection. These could be issues with the property's grading or drainage, which could cause flooding or erosion. It can also reveal any structural issues or potential hazards, such as a sinkhole or unstable soil.

Negotiate Repairs or Adjust the Purchase Price: If the survey reveals any issues with the property, you may be able to negotiate repairs or adjust the purchase price to reflect the cost of fixing the issues. This can save you money in the long run and give you peace of mind knowing that you are not overpaying for a property with hidden problems.

Comply with Lender Requirements: If you are obtaining a mortgage, your lender may require a survey before approving the loan. This is because the lender wants to ensure that the property is a sound investment and that they are not lending money for a property with hidden issues.

In conclusion, getting a survey before buying a home is an essential step in the home buying process. It can help you avoid costly mistakes, identify property defects, and negotiate repairs or adjust the purchase price. A survey can also help you comply with lender requirements and give you peace of mind knowing that you are making an informed decision when purchasing your home.