Ordering a survey is not like ordering a pizza. Not every survey is the same, they take different times and talents to complete … and they don’t all cost the same.
Even if one is not required, we recommend that every closing have a survey. Old surveys often can be used if no changes have been made to the property, but if there have been, most likely a new one will be needed.
There is just too much risk involved if you don’t have a survey. There are a few things to keep in mind early in a transaction that can impact how soon your survey can be completed and how much it will cost:
– Type of Property: Lot and block can be done the fastest, metes and bounds, longer.
– Size of Property: Big properties, especially if there have been additions to them over the years from neighboring parcels, can take a few visits and cost significantly more.
– Weather: Hurricanes or extended rainy periods can cause some properties to be inaccessible.
– Date of closing: If you are scheduled for a Friday or the last three days of the month, so are a lot of other people. Surveyors can get backed up, especially during the summer rush.
Make sure you discuss with your customers and settlement service providers at the very start of the transaction the path to an acceptable survey … and give the transaction some wiggle room for success.
My Agent Greg 