Surveyors and Land - A Rich History

In this engaging episode of the 'Land Fixer Podcast', host Logan Swanson delves into the fascinating sphere of land surveying, a crucial part of land investment. Discussing everything from the basic principles of surveying, the significance of historical figures like George Washington in the profession, to the revolutionary impact of modern tools like GPS and laser scanning, this episode aims to demystify the intricate process of surveying.

Unfolding the various types of surveys, namely, boundary, topographical, geodetic, and construction surveys, the discussion emphasizes their roles in property boundaries, land contours, and planning future construction developments. The host also explores how recent advancements like drone-enabled LIDAR and GPS mapping software are transforming accuracy and precision in the field.

The importance of choosing an appropriate surveying firm is delved into, explaining how large civil engineering firms, mid-size surveying firms, boutique surveying firms, and one-to-three-man operations can cater to different land development needs. Knowledge of these different types of firms can remarkably refine your investment strategies.

Shedding light on the significance of surveying from an investor's perspective, the host recalls his personal transformation from considering surveyors as an unnecessary expense to acknowledging their essential role in property buying. The revealing data from surveys can significantly influence purchase decisions, from uncovering setbacks and zoning issues to assessing if a property has shifted from its original CAD mapping, thereby, speeding up property selling.

Finally, the episode underscores that understanding a property survey is quintessential for an investor, as it helps grasp completely what they are acquiring, ensuring peace of mind at closing deals. The rich dialogue provides valuable insights about the advantages of working with land surveyors in real estate.