How to Find a High-Quality and Reasonably Priced Land Surveyor in Lubbock
Securing accurate and legally binding land survey services is crucial, especially in the expansive and dynamic real estate market of Lubbock, Texas. A well-competent and experienced Texas Registered Professional Land Surveyor is a critical professional who helps resolve complex boundary disputes. However, matching a great surveyor with a budget friendly price can be challenging. Let's explore how to find the right land surveyor for you.
The Role of a Land Surveyor and Why Cost Should Not Be the Only Factor
A land surveyor is responsible for defining, establishing, and verifying property boundaries, which can be a legal matter of utmost importance. As with any specialized profession, choosing a professional should not be based solely on cost. For instance, you would not choose a brain surgeon or a pilot based on price—it's the same with a land surveyor. The quality of their work extends far beyond the initial fee.
Understanding the Appraisal Ecosystem in Lubbock
The choice and hiring of an appraiser for mortgage banking are highly regulated and often streamlined. In many cases, the bank itself selects and hires the appraiser, or they may engage an appraisal management company. This process ensures that the appraiser's qualifications and methods meet strict standards. However, for non-mortgage purposes, you have the freedom to select the appraiser yourself.
My experience as a state-certified real estate appraiser for 30 years in South Texas has consistently shown that an affordable price generally does not equate to good quality. The old adage, “You get what you pay for,” holds particularly true in the realm of professional land surveys. A bargain basement price often comes with significantly compromised quality of work.
Evaluating Quality and Cost
When looking for a land surveyor, it's essential to consider the work quality. Surveys that are cheaper often do not provide the same level of due diligence and in-depth analysis. This can lead to inaccuracies that might prove costly in the future. For instance, appraisers who charge less may not spend as much time verifying data accuracy or conducting thorough analyses.
While the fees of top-tier surveyors may still seem minuscule compared to the value of the real estate, the savings from a cheaper service can often be illusory. It is crucial to invest in a reputable and experienced surveyor who can provide reliable and legally defensible documentation.
Looking for Professional Designations
A surveyor with the designations of MAI (Member of the Appraisal Institute) or a firm headed by someone with these letters indicates a level of trust, expertise, and adherence to industry standards. MAI designees have passed rigorous educational requirements and exhibited a high level of professionalism and expertise in their field.
Full Disclosure
While I do not hold the MAI designation myself, I have been trained by someone who does, and my current employers both hold this designation. This further underscores the importance of choosing a reputable professional with the appropriate credentials.
In conclusion, while it's important to consider cost, the quality and reliability of a land surveyor should be the primary focus. Investing in a professional with the appropriate credentials and experience will ultimately save you time, money, and potential legal issues in the long run.