Closing costs add up quickly. When buying a home in New Hanover or Brunswick County, buyers often look for line items to cut. Since many lenders no longer strictly require a property survey for loan approval (especially for existing homes), it is often the first thing struck from the list to save $400–$600.

This is a strategic mistake.

In the world of Coastal North Carolina real estate, what you see is rarely what you own. Skipping a survey is one of the fastest ways to inherit a legal headache that costs thousands to fix later.

The "Fence Line" Fallacy

The most common myth we hear is: "I don't need a survey; I can see the fence, so I know the property lines."

In reality, fences are notorious liars.

This is particularly true in our region due to storm history. After hurricanes like Florence or Isaias, thousands of fences in Wilmington, Leland, and Surf City were blown down. When neighbors rebuilt them, they often didn't hire a surveyor—they just "eyeballed" where the old one was. Over time, property lines "drift," and you might find that the fence you think is yours is actually two feet onto your neighbor's land (or vice versa).

The "Hidden" Title Insurance Loophole

Here is the insider knowledge that most buyers miss: Standard title insurance policies usually contain an exception for "matters that would be disclosed by an accurate survey."

If you do not get a new survey:

The Risk: You close on a house in Hampstead, and six months later, your neighbor proves your garage encroaches on their land.

The Consequence: Your title insurance may deny the claim because you waived the survey. You could be forced to tear down the structure at your own expense.

The Solution: Getting a survey removes this exception, ensuring your title policy actually protects your boundaries.

Coastal Complications: Impervious Surface & Setbacks

In Onslow and Pender counties, zoning rules regarding "impervious surface" (how much of the lot is covered by concrete/roof) are strict to manage stormwater runoff.

If you buy a home without a survey, you might inherit a backyard shed or patio that the previous owner built illegally over the setback line or easement. When you go to sell that home in the future, you become the one responsible for the violation. In towns like Southport or Wrightsville Beach, where lot lines are tight and regulations are strict, this can kill your resale value.

Your Next Step

A home is likely the largest asset you will ever own; do not guess where it begins and ends. Spending a few hundred dollars now can save you from a five-figure legal dispute later.

At Aspyre Realty Group, we view the transaction process as a shield for our clients. We are experts in listening to your need for security and communicating that into homes that work for you—with clear boundaries and clean titles. Before you decide to "save money" by skipping the survey, let’s discuss the specific risks associated with that property’s location.