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Real estate glossaryNational exam concept

Metes and bounds

Metes and bounds is a legal-description method that traces a parcel's boundary using directions, distances, monuments, and a point of beginning, then closes by returning to that point.

Exam area: Property Ownership

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What does “metes and bounds” mean in real estate?

Metes and bounds is a legal-description method that traces a parcel's boundary using directions, distances, monuments, and a point of beginning, then closes by returning to that point.

How is “metes and bounds” different from the closest wrong answer?

Metes and bounds follows boundary calls. Lot and block refers to a recorded subdivision plat, while the rectangular survey system uses principal meridians, baselines, townships, and ranges.

What is the Georgia-specific rule?

Metes-and-bounds descriptions are common in Georgia records. Physical and natural monuments can be important when calls conflict, but the exam focus is identifying the method.

Worked exam example

Scenario

A deed begins at an iron pin, runs north 220 feet to a creek, follows the creek, and returns through stated courses to the starting pin.

What is the most common exam trap?

Trap correction

A street address or tax parcel number helps identify property but is not automatically a sufficient legal description.

Original exam check

Apply the definition

A deed reads: “Beginning at an iron pin on the west line of Old Mill Road, thence north 220 feet to a creek, thence along the creek, then back to the point of beginning.” Which description method is this?

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Continue with Property Ownership complete lesson. It places this term inside the full rule, worked examples, exam traps, and mixed practice required for mastery.