When buying or selling a home in Minnesota, one of the most overlooked — yet critically important — considerations is the property line. Whether you’re looking at a residential home in Minneapolis, a cabin in northern Minnesota, or a lot in the suburbs of the Twin Cities, property line disputes can cause major headaches for buyers, sellers, and even long-time homeowners.
What Are Property Line Disputes?
A property line dispute occurs when two or more property owners disagree about the legal boundary between their parcels of land. These disagreements can involve fences, sheds, driveways, landscaping, or even access to water features. In Minnesota, where many properties are nestled among lakes, woods, and evolving developments, such disputes are more common than you might think.
How to Check for Recorded Boundary Disagreements in Minnesota
If you’re buying or selling real estate in Minnesota, it’s smart to research whether there are recorded property line disputes before moving forward. Here are a few steps to take:
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Review the Property Survey
Always request a recent property survey or have a new one conducted. This document shows the exact boundary lines and can highlight any potential overlaps or encroachments. -
Check Public Records
Visit the county recorder’s office or search the online database for any easements, disputes, or litigation involving the property. Minnesota counties like Hennepin, Ramsey, Dakota, and Anoka often have searchable online systems. -
Consult a Title Company
During the title search process, title companies can uncover boundary disputes that have been recorded. Make sure to ask your title agent to look specifically for any easement agreements, encroachment claims, or adverse possession filings. -
Ask the Neighbors
Sometimes, disputes are informally handled and never officially recorded. It’s wise to ask nearby homeowners if they’re aware of any unofficial property disagreements or boundary issues. -
Talk to Your Real Estate Agent
A local expert like myself can provide insight based on experience in the area. We can help identify red flags that might not appear in the paperwork but could affect your future ownership.
Common Causes of Property Line Disputes in Minnesota
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Fence placement errors
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Encroachments from sheds, garages, or decks
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Tree or landscaping issues
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Unclear lakefront property lines
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Long-term use claims (adverse possession)
These issues are especially relevant in Minnesota’s older neighborhoods and rural areas, where surveys may be outdated or missing.
How to Resolve a Property Line Dispute
If a dispute arises, homeowners can:
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Work together to hire a licensed land surveyor
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Mediation or arbitration through a neutral third party
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Consult a real estate attorney
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File a quiet title action if necessary, to legally settle the boundary
Final Thoughts
Property line disputes can complicate any real estate transaction, but with due diligence, they don’t have to derail your plans. Whether you’re buying a lakeside retreat in Brainerd or selling a single-family home in St. Paul, it’s crucial to ensure your property boundaries are clearly defined and free of conflict.
At Apex Realty Team, I’m here to guide you through every detail of your real estate transaction — including making sure you have a clear understanding of the land you’re buying or selling.
If you’re wondering whether a Minnesota property has any recorded boundary disagreements, reach out today for professional insight and trusted local expertise.
– Jordan Eatherton, Apex Realty Team