Lot 15, Block 8, Sunset Hills Subdivision, as recorded in Plat Book 45, Page 67, County Records' is an example of which legal description type?
Correct Answer
C) Lot and block
Why this is correct: The lot and block system identifies property by referencing a recorded subdivision plat. The description 'Lot 15, Block 8, Sunset Hills Subdivision, as recorded in Plat Book 45, Page 67' is a classic example, using lot number, block number, and subdivision name with plat book reference. Why the other choices are wrong: 'Rectangular survey' is wrong; that system uses townships, ranges, and sections. 'Metes and bounds' is wrong; that system describes boundaries with distances and directions from a point of beginning. 'Informal description' is wrong; this is a formal, legally sufficient description tied to a recorded plat. Exam tip: Look for 'Lot,' 'Block,' and 'Subdivision' to identify the lot and block system.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Why this is correct: The lot and block system identifies property by referencing a recorded subdivision plat. The description 'Lot 15, Block 8, Sunset Hills Subdivision, as recorded in Plat Book 45, Page 67' is a classic example, using lot number, block number, and subdivision name with plat book reference. Why the other choices are wrong: 'Rectangular survey' is wrong; that system uses townships, ranges, and sections. 'Metes and bounds' is wrong; that system describes boundaries with distances and directions from a point of beginning. 'Informal description' is wrong; this is a formal, legally sufficient description tied to a recorded plat. Exam tip: Look for 'Lot,' 'Block,' and 'Subdivision' to identify the lot and block system.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Rectangular survey
Metes and bounds descriptions use compass directions, distances, and natural or artificial landmarks to describe property boundaries (e.g., 'beginning at the oak tree, then north 45 degrees east for 200 feet'). This description contains no directional bearings, distances, or boundary markers that characterize metes and bounds descriptions.
Option B: Metes and bounds
Rectangular survey (also called government survey) uses township, range, and section references based on principal meridians and base lines established by the U.S. government. This description lacks any reference to townships, ranges, sections, or directional references from meridians that would indicate rectangular survey system usage.
Option D: Informal description
An informal description would be a general reference like 'the Smith property on Main Street' or 'the house next to the post office.' This description is actually quite formal and specific, referencing exact lot numbers, block numbers, and recorded plat information that provides precise legal identification.
LLB - Look for Lot and Block
Remember 'LLB' - when you see 'Lot,' 'Block,' and 'Book' (plat book) all in the same description, it's definitely Lot and Block system. Think 'Lots Live in Blocks' - just like city blocks contain multiple lots.
How to use: Scan the description for the three key elements: specific lot number, block number, and reference to a recorded plat book. If all three are present, it's automatically lot and block system regardless of other details in the description.
Exam Tip
Don't overthink these questions - look for the obvious keywords. 'Lot,' 'Block,' and 'Plat Book' together always indicate lot and block system, even if the description seems complex with multiple reference numbers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- -Confusing lot and block with metes and bounds when both contain detailed reference information
- -Thinking any description with numbers must be rectangular survey system
- -Assuming informal descriptions can't contain specific reference numbers
Concept Deep Dive
Analysis
This question tests knowledge of the three primary legal description systems used in real estate: metes and bounds, rectangular survey, and lot and block (recorded plat). Legal descriptions are critical for property identification and must be precise enough to uniquely identify a specific parcel of land. The lot and block system is the most common method used in developed subdivisions where a developer has created a recorded plat map that divides larger parcels into smaller lots. This system relies on referencing the recorded subdivision plat rather than using compass directions or government survey markers.
Background Knowledge
Legal descriptions serve to uniquely identify real property and are essential for deeds, mortgages, and appraisal reports. The lot and block system became prevalent with suburban development as it provides a simple, efficient method for describing properties within platted subdivisions. Understanding which legal description system is being used helps appraisers properly identify comparable properties and understand property boundaries.
Real-World Application
When appraising residential properties in subdivisions, appraisers frequently encounter lot and block descriptions. This system makes it easy to locate comparable sales within the same subdivision and verify property boundaries using the recorded plat map at the county recorder's office.
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