Spring, summer, and the beginning of fall are typically considered peak time for real estate activity in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). It is also a hectic time for home sellers looking to showcase their properties to the utmost advantage, which includes making necessary renovations and repairs.

In the last few blog posts, we have shared information on how to go about doing just that—from making pool upgrades and repairing your home’s fences to making sure the electrical wiring in your home is safe and fire-proof.

Today, we will share some useful tips on how getting a land survey conducted around your property can help you fetch a better sales price for your home.

What is a land survey and why do it?

Whether on paper or in its digital version, a land survey plots the exact boundaries and measurements of your property. It clearly specifies finer details, e.g. the location of natural structures, such as a floodplain, or artificial structures, such as utilities, in case you or a prospective buyer needs to add additional structures or extensions at a later date. It also helps homeowners identify any existing or potential issues with the property before putting the property up for sale.

For densely populated residential areas, common to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), getting a land survey is important to rule out any possible boundary issues, which again are commonly found in urban dwellings.

Whether you are planning to sell or buy a home, a mortgage broker might ask you to get a land survey conducted for the following reasons:

  • To satisfy prospective buyers looking for complete information on the land title they intend to bid for
  • To check if any future construction or repair can be done easily and without dispute
  • To determine the exact fence line in case you share it with another property
  • Understanding your property’s exact dimensions also helps you safeguard the same against any existing or future encroachments
  • Can help you avoid any potential legal issues with your neighbor
  • Facilitate the approval process for a mortgage loan, and thereby safeguard the lender’s investment in your property

How long does it take, and how much does it cost?

A land survey can take anywhere between one to three weeks or longer and depends on the property's history, size, location, and unique features. The costs can range from $1,500 to over $6,000 for larger properties.

Hiring a surveyor

The Canadian Board of Examiners for Professional Surveyors (CBEPS) is a professional organization for professional surveyors working across Canada. Each province has its own association, for example, Ontario surveyors are overseen by the Association of Ontario Land Surveyors (AOLS), which has an online database listing the contact information of local professionals. You can also ask your realtor, if you are working with an experienced and licensed professional, to recommend one.

Key advantage of getting a land survey

Getting a land survey done allows sellers to reassure buyers about the transparency of the transaction and their adherence to requirements for legal compliance. It also helps buyers make an informed buying decision after taking into consideration the property’s potential risks and advantages.

Additional Resources

Association of Ontario Land Surveyors (AOLS)

Canadian Board of Examiners for Professional Surveyors (CBEPS)

If you are a prospective seller with a property in need of upgrades and need information or guidance for the same, do get in touch with RE/MAX Royal Team Sachdeva Realty for more information.

Have a good weekend!