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How To Find The Lot Size of a Property: A Pro’s Guide

Finding the lot size of a property is usually a straightforward process, vital whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or simply curious. The quickest and most reliable method is to consult the property’s official records, specifically the deed or a plat map filed with the local county recorder’s office (or its equivalent). These documents legally define the property’s boundaries and dimensions, providing the accurate acreage or square footage you need. Alternative sources include online property tax records, municipal planning departments, and even professional real estate agents or surveyors. However, always prioritize official documentation for the most precise information.

Decoding the Property Puzzle: Finding Your Lot Size

Understanding lot size is far more than just knowing how much land comes with a property. It’s about comprehending zoning regulations, potential development opportunities, property value, and even tax implications. So, let’s dive into the most reliable methods for uncovering this crucial piece of real estate information.

Method 1: Delving into Official Records

This is your gold standard when it comes to accuracy.

The Property Deed: The deed is the legal document transferring ownership of a property. Within its pages, you’ll find a legal description of the property, which includes the lot’s dimensions and overall acreage or square footage. This description may be written in metes and bounds, which uses bearings and distances to define the property lines.
Plat Maps: Also known as survey maps, these are detailed diagrams showing the subdivision of land into individual lots. You can typically find these at the county recorder’s office, the city planning department, or sometimes online through the county’s GIS (Geographic Information System) website. They provide precise measurements and often illustrate the location of easements and other restrictions.

How to Access Official Records:

Identify the County Recorder’s Office: This is the primary repository for property records. Contact information is easily found online.
Search Online Databases: Many counties have digitized their records and offer online search portals. You’ll typically need the property address or the parcel identification number (PIN) to conduct a search.
Visit in Person: If online access is limited, you can visit the recorder’s office during business hours and request assistance from a clerk. Be prepared to pay a small fee for copies of documents.

Method 2: Exploring Online Resources

The digital age offers convenient alternatives, but always cross-reference with official records for verification.

Property Tax Records: Many counties offer online access to property tax records, which often include the lot size. While readily accessible, these records may sometimes be approximate and might not reflect recent subdivisions or boundary adjustments.
GIS Websites: Geographic Information System (GIS) websites provide interactive maps that display property boundaries and other relevant data. These are usually maintained by local governments and offer a wealth of information, including lot size.
Real Estate Websites: Popular real estate portals like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Trulia often list lot sizes along with other property details. However, these figures are often based on public records or estimates and should be treated with caution.

Important Considerations for Online Resources:

Data Accuracy: Always verify information from online sources with official records, as errors can occur.
Data Currency: Ensure that the information is up-to-date, as property boundaries can change over time.
Legal Reliance: Online data is typically not considered legally binding.

Method 3: Enlisting Professional Help

When accuracy is paramount or the records are complex, professionals can provide invaluable assistance.

Real Estate Agents: Experienced agents have access to real estate databases and can often obtain lot size information for properties.
Professional Surveyors: Surveyors are licensed professionals who can conduct a property survey to determine the precise boundaries and lot size. This is particularly useful when there are boundary disputes or uncertainties about the property lines.
Title Companies: These companies conduct title searches and provide title insurance. As part of their due diligence, they determine the lot size and other relevant property information.

When to Consider Professional Help:

Complex Property Boundaries: If the property has irregular boundaries or is part of a larger subdivision, a surveyor may be necessary.
Boundary Disputes: If there are disagreements with neighboring property owners about the boundary lines, a survey can resolve the issue.
Legal Requirements: In some cases, a survey may be required by lenders or local governments for financing or permitting purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Finding Lot Size

What is the difference between acreage and square footage?
Acreage is a unit of land measurement equal to 43,560 square feet. Square footage is a more granular measure, typically used for smaller lots or for describing the size of buildings. Converting between the two is simple: multiply the acreage by 43,560 to get square footage, or divide the square footage by 43,560 to get acreage.
Where can I find the parcel identification number (PIN) for a property?
The PIN, also known as the parcel number or tax ID number, is a unique identifier assigned to each property by the local government. You can usually find it on property tax bills, online property tax records, or by searching the county’s GIS website using the property address.
What is a metes and bounds description?
Metes and bounds is a method of describing property boundaries using distances (metes) and directions (bounds). The description typically starts at a specific point and follows a series of lines and angles to define the property’s perimeter. It’s a common method in older areas and can be complex to interpret.
How do I read a plat map?

Plat maps show the layout of a subdivision, including the dimensions and boundaries of individual lots. They typically include scales, bearings, and distances, as well as the locations of easements and other features. Learning to read a plat map can take some practice, but there are resources available online and at your local library to help you understand the symbols and terminology.
What is an easement and how does it affect lot size?
An easement is a legal right granted to someone to use a portion of another person’s property for a specific purpose, such as a utility line or a right-of-way. While an easement doesn’t physically reduce the lot size, it does restrict the owner’s use of the affected area.
How can I find the lot size if the property has been recently subdivided?
If a property has been recently subdivided, you’ll need to consult the new plat map filed with the county recorder’s office. This map will show the boundaries of the newly created lots and their respective lot sizes. The original deed may no longer be accurate.
What if the lot size listed on different websites varies?
It’s not uncommon for lot sizes to vary slightly across different online sources. This is because the information may be based on different data sources or estimates. Always rely on the official records for the most accurate information. If discrepancies persist, consider contacting a professional surveyor for clarification.
Is the lot size always the same as the buildable area?
No, the lot size is not always the same as the buildable area. Zoning regulations and setbacks often restrict the portion of the lot that can be used for construction. Setbacks are minimum distances that buildings must be set back from property lines, and other restrictions may apply based on zoning ordinances or environmental regulations.
How do zoning regulations affect lot size and development?
Zoning regulations dictate how land can be used and developed within a specific area. They may specify minimum lot sizes, setbacks, building heights, and other requirements that affect development potential. Understanding the zoning regulations is crucial before buying, selling, or developing a property.
Can I change the boundaries of my property?
It is possible to change the boundaries of a property through a process called lot line adjustment or boundary line agreement. This typically involves obtaining approval from the local planning department and recording a new plat map reflecting the revised boundaries. There may be legal and regulatory requirements to meet.
What is a property survey and when do I need one?
A property survey is a precise measurement of the boundaries and features of a property, conducted by a licensed surveyor. It’s typically needed when there’s uncertainty about the property lines, when building a fence or structure near the property line, or when required by a lender or local government.
What should I do if I suspect an error in the property records?
If you suspect an error in the property records, contact the county recorder’s office or the city planning department to discuss the issue. You may need to provide documentation or evidence to support your claim. In some cases, you may need to hire a professional surveyor to conduct a new survey and correct the records.

Finding the lot size of a property requires diligence and a keen eye for detail. By leveraging official records, exploring online resources, and enlisting professional help when needed, you can confidently unlock the dimensions of any property and make informed real estate decisions.