Real Estate Appraisal Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of a rectangular survey system description?

1. S ½ SE ¼ NW ¼ Section 2, Township Clarkson

2. Lot 12, Block 3, Pine Valley Subdivision

3. Parcel Number 123-456-789

4. Section 5, Range 6E, Township 7N

The correct answer is: S ½ SE ¼ NW ¼ Section 2, Township Clarkson

The rectangular survey system is a method used in the United States for surveying and describing land. It is based on a grid system established by the Land Ordinance of 1785, which divides land into townships and sections. The key components of this system are townships, ranges, and sections, which use a systematic approach to identify parcels of land based on their location in relation to a principal meridian and baseline. The correct answer provides a description that reflects all the elements of the rectangular survey system. It specifies a section (the division of the township), delineates portions of that section through the use of horizontal and vertical subdivisions (such as S ½ SE ¼ NW ¼), and includes the name of the township (Clarkson). This level of detail is characteristic of how the rectangular survey system is structured, allowing for precise identification of land parcels. Other options, while they may describe land in some manner, do not adhere to the rectangular survey system. One option describes a specific lot and block within a subdivision, belonging to the lot-and-block system, which is more commonly used for urban properties and developments. Another option uses a parcel number, which is typically a reference used by local jurisdictions but does not incorporate the land description format dictated