How are surveys typically negotiated in real estate transactions?

Surveys in real estate transactions are primarily negotiated between the buyer and seller. This process often occurs during the contract negotiations or as part of the due diligence period. It is crucial for buyers to understand the boundaries, easements, and any encroachments on the property, which a survey can reveal. The buyer typically requests a survey to validate the property lines and ensure there are no surprises that could affect the purchase, such as potential property disputes with neighbors.

While real estate agents, attorneys, and surveyors play important roles in the transaction process—agents may facilitate the conversation about surveys, attorneys may help interpret legal implications, and surveyors provide the actual survey services—the decision to obtain a survey and the specifics of what that survey should include are usually made in discussions between the buyer and seller. Such negotiations may include whether the buyer will pay for the survey and whether the seller has an existing survey that can be provided. Thus, the direct engagement of the buyer and seller in this aspect is fundamental to ensuring that the transaction takes place smoothly and transparently.