Understanding the Township and Range System in Real Estate

When it comes to real estate transactions, legal descriptions play a crucial role in accurately identifying properties. In the United States, one common type of legal description is the township and range system, which has been used since the early days of land surveying. This system is particularly useful for rural areas, where large tracts of land are divided into smaller parcels.

The township and range system was established by the Public Land Survey System (PLSS) in the late 1840s and completed by the early 1900s. It divides the country into a grid pattern of townships, ranges, and sections. A township is a six-mile square area, divided into 36 one-mile square sections. Each section is then further divided into smaller parcels, such as quarters, halves, and fourths.

In Minnesota, for example, the PLSS was used to survey and divide public lands into smaller tracts. This system allows for precise identification of properties using a combination of grid coordinates and descriptive language. A typical township and range description might look like this: 'The Northwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of Section 33, Township 33, Range 21.'

These descriptions can be complex and lengthy, sometimes running to several pages. They typically begin at a designated point and then give directions and distances to be measured around the boundaries of the land. For example, a metes and bounds description might read: ''The north 50 feet of the east 100 feet of Lot 6, Block 4, Carl C. Carlson's Addition.''

In addition to township and range descriptions, there are also lot and block descriptions. These refer to recorded maps known as plats, which show the layout of a specific development or subdivision. A lot and block description might look like this: ''The north half of Lot 12, Block 3, Oakwood Estates.''

While the township and range system may seem complex, it is an essential tool for real estate professionals and landowners alike. By understanding how to read and interpret these descriptions, individuals can accurately identify properties and navigate the process of buying or selling land. Whether you're a seasoned real estate expert or just starting out, having a grasp of the township and range system is crucial for success in the world of real estate.

Township and range system real estate