A deed describes land as 'Lot 14, Block 3 of Sunrise Estates, recorded in Map Book 22, Page 5.' Which method of legal description is this?
Correct Answer
C) Lot and block, referencing a recorded plat
The lot/block reference identifies a parcel through the specified recorded subdivision plat and map-book/page reference. Metes and bounds instead describes boundary courses, while the rectangular system uses township/range/section references. Verify actual instruments; recognizing a format is not a title/survey sufficiency opinion.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option C is correct because the description identifies the parcel by lot number, block number and a recorded subdivision plat in a map book and page. This method is also called description by lot and block or by recorded plat. It relies on the recorded map to define the parcel boundaries.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Metes and bounds from a point of beginning
Option A, metes and bounds from a point of beginning, describes land by boundary courses and distances. The given description has no courses, distances or point of beginning.
Option B: Government rectangular survey system
Option B, the government rectangular survey system, uses township, range and section references. None of those appear in the description, which cites a lot, block and recorded map.
Option D: Informal street-address description
Option D, an informal street-address description, would give a street number and name. The description here is a formal legal description tied to a recorded plat, not a street address.
Lot, Block, Book
If you see a lot, a block and a map book page, it is the recorded plat method.
How to use: Use this to identify plat-based descriptions on sight.
Exam Tip
Match keywords to methods: courses and distances mean metes and bounds; township and range mean rectangular survey; lot, block and plat mean recorded plat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- -Calling any formal description metes and bounds
- -Treating a street address as a legal description
- -Confusing a plat reference with the rectangular survey system
Concept Deep Dive
Analysis
This question tests recognition of the three main legal description methods. A description that names a lot, block, subdivision and recorded map reference is a lot and block description. The other methods use boundary courses or township, range and section references instead.
Background Knowledge
Legal descriptions identify land precisely enough to locate it. The three principal methods are metes and bounds, the rectangular survey system, and lot and block referencing a recorded plat. Recognizing the format does not by itself confirm that the description is sufficient for title or survey purposes.
Real-World Application
An appraiser in a suburban subdivision copies the legal description from the deed, which cites a lot and block on a recorded plat. The appraiser reviews the plat map to confirm the lot's shape and dimensions before analyzing the site.
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