If you're going to be purchasing land for future use, you need to insist on an American Land Title Association (ALTA) survey. Other types of surveys may provide you with the boundary lines for the land you're purchasing, but they're not going to provide you with the details you need to avoid potential issues with the transaction. Here are just four of the reasons why you need an ALTA survey for your land purchase.

Ensures Consistency

When it comes to purchasing land that hasn't been improved upon, it's crucial that the land survey be accurate and that everyone involved agrees on the findings. Unfortunately, if you're using an alternate survey source, you may not have either of those requirements satisfied. Different surveys will come up with different findings—unless you're using an ALTA survey. One of the benefits of the ALTA survey is that the findings are always consistent, and just about every professional you'll be working with during your real estate transaction will accept the findings of an ALTA survey.

Avoids Encroachment

When you're purchasing land that hasn't been improved upon, you need to be concerned about easements and potential encroachments. The last thing you want is to be hit with an easement violation after your project is completed. An ALTA survey will ensure that you have an accurate identification of your property lines and that all easements are protected. It's important to note that your ALTA survey will also protect you against potential encroachments and easement violations should the adjoining property be sold and improved upon.

Prevents Title Issues

When you purchase your land, you'll be issued a title for the property. If there are issues with the property, such as exceptions, the title process may be delayed. One way to avoid problems with the title is to insist on an ALTA survey as soon as possible. The ALTA survey will identify potential title exceptions and provide a clear and detailed description of the property being sold.

Reduces Potential Disputes

Whenever you purchase commercial property, you need to be concerned about future projects, including municipal improvements. If you're purchasing commercial land, an ALTA survey will provide you with the information you'll need regarding municipal restrictions, including potential easement use for future infrastructure improvements.

If you're in the market for commercial property, don't forget about the ALTA survey. An accurate land survey will ensure you avoid problems with the real estate transaction as well as with future land use.