Do You Need a Survey When Buying a Florida Home?
Do You Need a Survey When Buying a Florida Home?
When you’re buying a home in Florida, one document can save you legal trouble, property disputes, and surprises down the road: a land survey.
Here’s what Florida buyers need to know.
What Is a Property Survey?
A survey is a professional measurement of your property’s boundaries, including:
- Lot dimensions
- Location of the house, fences, driveways, and sheds
- Encroachments (like a neighbor’s fence over the line)
- Easements (utility or drainage access)
It’s done by a licensed Florida surveyor and typically includes a detailed map.
Is a Survey Required to Buy?
Not always.
- Cash buyers can skip it
- Lenders may require a survey for mortgage approval
- Title companies often request one to issue clean title insurance
Even if it’s not required, getting a new survey is smart—especially if the seller doesn’t have a recent one.
When Is a Survey Most Important?
You should strongly consider a new survey if:
- The home has additions or detached structures
- There are fences, walls, or driveways near property lines
- The home is in an older neighborhood with shifting lot lines
- You plan to add a pool, fence, or addition later
Surveys confirm that what you see is what you legally own.
How Much Does It Cost?
In Florida, a residential survey typically costs:
- $300 to $700 depending on lot size and complexity
Turnaround time is usually 5–10 business days, but can vary.
What’s Included in the Survey?
- Legal description of the property
- Map showing buildings, fences, easements, and setbacks
- Signed certification by a licensed surveyor
Make sure it meets the Minimum Technical Standards (MTS) for Florida.
Final Thought
You may not be required to get a new survey—but it’s often worth every penny.
📞 Call Michael Renick at 941.400.8735 to get survey guidance and connect with top-rated professionals before you close.
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