In a metes and bounds legal description, what does the term 'metes' specifically refer to?
Correct Answer
D) Measurements of distance and direction
Why this is correct: The term 'metes' in a metes and bounds legal description specifically denotes the measurements—the distances and directional bearings—that trace the property's perimeter. Why the other choices are wrong: "Natural and artificial boundaries" describes 'bounds'. "Survey monuments and markers" are reference points used in the description. "Property corners and angles" are outcomes defined by the metes and bounds. Exam tip: For a clear definition: Metes are the measured courses; Bounds are the bounding landmarks.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option A is correct because 'metes' specifically refers to the measurements of distance and direction used in property descriptions. The word 'metes' comes from the Latin word 'meta' meaning measure, which directly relates to the quantitative aspects of surveying. In a metes and bounds description, you'll see phrases like 'North 45 degrees East for 200 feet' - the '200 feet' is the distance measurement and 'North 45 degrees East' is the directional measurement, both of which constitute the 'metes' portion. This is the fundamental definition that distinguishes metes from bounds in legal descriptions.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
METES = MEASURES
Remember: METES sounds like METERS (measurement unit). Think 'Metes = Measurements' and 'Bounds = Boundaries.' You can also use the phrase 'Metes Measure Miles' to remember that metes deals with the quantitative measuring aspects.
How to use: When you see a question about metes and bounds, immediately think 'Metes = Measurements (distance and direction)' and 'Bounds = Boundaries (physical features).' If the question asks specifically about 'metes,' look for the answer choice that mentions measurements, distances, or directions.
Exam Tip
On exam day, if you see 'metes and bounds' questions, quickly write 'Metes = Measurements, Bounds = Boundaries' in your scratch work area to keep the distinction clear throughout the exam.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- -Confusing metes with bounds - thinking metes refers to physical boundaries
- -Believing metes only refers to distance without including direction
- -Thinking that survey markers or monuments are part of metes rather than bounds
Concept Deep Dive
Analysis
Metes and bounds is one of the oldest and most precise methods of property description, commonly used in the original 13 colonies and other areas not covered by the Public Land Survey System. The term 'metes and bounds' is actually two distinct components working together to create a complete legal description. 'Metes' specifically refers to the quantitative measurements - the distances and directional bearings that define the property lines. 'Bounds' refers to the physical boundaries and landmarks that help establish and verify the property limits. Understanding this distinction is crucial for appraisers when interpreting legal descriptions and ensuring accurate property identification.
Background Knowledge
Metes and bounds descriptions create a closed polygon by starting at a known point (point of beginning) and following a series of measured distances and directional bearings until returning to the starting point. This system predates the Public Land Survey System and is still commonly used in many eastern states and areas with irregular property boundaries.
Real-World Application
When reviewing a property deed for appraisal purposes, you might see a metes and bounds description like 'Beginning at an iron pin, thence North 15°30' East 150.5 feet to a stone marker...' The '150.5 feet' distance and 'North 15°30' East' bearing represent the metes (measurements), while the 'iron pin' and 'stone marker' represent the bounds (boundaries).
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