Restrictive covenants are conditional limitations that are set upon the property by the county, city, developer, and even the landowner. Although they must abide by federal regulations and Fair Housing guidelines, sometimes you will find that your 1800 square foot dream home will not be allowed in a 2000 square foot minimum neighborhood.

It is also extremely important to understand where your property corners are ‘set’ and where your property lines are located. A survey will give you a good illustration of where your boundaries begin and end. You will find identification marks, or a “witness”, on each corner of your property, marking these boundaries. Make sure that the survey references your legal description on the deed.

Keep in mind that there are usually building setbacks from the boundary lines. This is also important for you and your builder so that you are aware of the actual building space on a lot. Sometimes you will find that a property with 2 acres may have only 1 acre of buildable space. Another thing to keep in mind is how much of the property is “high ground”. In low-lying areas like a property for sale in Charleston SC for example, a seller may be offering 3 acres for sale but only 1 acre might be above sea level, meaning that only 1 of the 3 acres in buildable. If you are purchasing land with the intention of subdividing, make sure you are aware of this.

Whether you are looking for land for sale in Columbia SC, or in Charleston or Greenville- make sure your real estate agent fully understands their land contracts, and has experience with them. It’s always a good rule of thumb for you to get educated on the process as well.