In a metes-and-bounds legal description, what is the starting point of the survey called?

In a metes-and-bounds legal description, the starting point of the survey is called the Point of Beginning (POB). This term is crucial because it marks the specific location from which the boundaries of the property are defined. The metes-and-bounds system uses a combination of physical landmarks and measurements to delineate the perimeter of the property in a detailed manner.

The importance of the Point of Beginning lies in its function as the reference point that establishes the entirety of the property's boundaries. From the POB, the surveyor will measure the distances and angles, using specific directions and landmarks, to describe the property’s edges accurately. This method allows for a precise and flexible description of land parcels, especially in areas where squared or rectangular properties are not practical due to geographical or manmade features.

Understanding the POB is essential for anyone studying real estate, as it plays a vital role in determining property lines and surveying land accurately.