American Land Title Association (ALTA) Practice Exam 2025 - Free ALTA Practice Questions and Study Guide

In real estate, a "survey" specifically refers to a method of measuring and mapping out a parcel of land's boundaries. This process involves a detailed assessment conducted by a licensed surveyor, who utilizes various tools and techniques to determine the precise boundaries of a property. Surveys are critical in establishing property lines, identifying any easements or encroachments, and ensuring that the description of the land is accurate for legal and transaction purposes.

Understanding the boundaries is essential for potential buyers, lenders, and title companies as it helps prevent disputes over property lines and confirms that the seller has the legal right to sell the land without any misunderstandings regarding its size or location. Surveys may also identify any improvements on the property and check compliance with zoning regulations, which adds another layer of importance to the process in real estate transactions.

Other options refer to different aspects of real estate but do not accurately define what a survey encompasses. Financial assessments, transaction reports, and property evaluations relate to the financial and condition aspects of real estate rather than the physical delineation of property boundaries, which is the focus of a survey.