Adjoining Contiguous

Definition

In real estate, the term “adjoining contiguous” refers to properties or parcels of land that are adjacent to each other, sharing a common boundary or border. When two properties are described as “adjoining contiguous,” it indicates that they are directly next to each other, with no gap or intervening space between them.

Examples

Residential Properties: Two neighboring homes on a suburban street might be considered adjoining contiguous properties if they share a common boundary.
Commercial Properties: Two adjacent commercial lots within a business park that share a fence or boundary line.
Agricultural Land: Large plots of farmland owned by different farmers but lying side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the significance of properties being adjoining contiguous?

Adjoining contiguous properties are significant in real estate transactions because they might be sold or developed together to create a larger parcel. Legal descriptions and property boundaries often rely on whether lands are adjoining and contiguous.

2. Can a property be considered contiguous if separated by a road?

No, typically, properties separated by a road are not considered contiguous since they do not directly share a common boundary.

3. Is it possible to dispute a common boundary?

Yes, boundary disputes can arise, typically requiring legal adjudication, surveys, or examinations of historical deeds to resolve the exact boundary line.

4. How does “adjoining contiguous” differ from “adjacent”?

“Adjoining contiguous” specifically implies that properties touch or share a boundary, whereas “adjacent” is a broader term that can include properties near or next to each other but not necessarily touching.

5. Are there tax implications for adjoining contiguous properties?

Yes, the tax assessment can vary based on the combined value of adjoining contiguous properties if they are sold or developed together.

Adjacent Properties: Properties that are next to each other but may not share a direct boundary.
Easement: A legal right to use another’s land for a specific limited purpose.
Land Parcel: A piece of land owned or meant to be owned as a single unit.
Lot Line: The boundary line defining a parcel of land.

Online Resources

Boundary Disputes: Information from Legal Information Institute about resolving property boundary issues.
Real Estate Glossary: Investopedia’s Real Estate Terms Glossary for a comprehensive list of terms.

References

“Real Estate Principles” by Charles J. Jacobus
“Modern Real Estate Practice” by Fillmore W. Galaty, Wellington J. Allaway, Robert C. Kyle

Suggested Books for Further Studies

“Real Estate Law” by Marianne Jennings: Offers an in-depth exploration of legal principles in real estate, including boundary and easement laws.
“Principles of Real Estate Practice” by Stephen Mettling & David Cusic: A comprehensive guide catering to real estate professionals.
“Barron’s Real Estate Handbook” by Jack P. Friedman and Jack C. Harris: A thorough reference book for understanding real estate terminology and practices.

Real Estate Basics: Adjoining Contiguous Fundamentals Quiz

### Which of the following best describes "adjoining contiguous" properties? - [ ] Properties in the same neighborhood. - [ ] Properties nearby but not touching. - [x] Properties that share a common boundary. - [ ] Properties separated by a street. > **Explanation:** "Adjoining contiguous" properties share a common boundary, meaning they touch or meet directly along a border. ### How would you classify two parcels of land separated by a small river? - [ ] Adjoining Contiguous - [x] Not Adjoining Contiguous - [ ] Semi-contiguous - [ ] Intermittent Contiguous > **Explanation:** Properties separated by a physical feature like a river are not considered "adjoining contiguous" as they do not share a direct common boundary. ### What distinguishes contiguous land from just adjacent land? - [x] The shared boundary - [ ] The distance between the properties - [ ] The purpose of the land use - [ ] Legal ownership > **Explanation:** Contiguous land specifically refers to parcels that share a common boundary, whereas adjacent land can simply be near each other. ### Which term is broader in meaning when applied to property relationships? - [ ] Adjoining Contiguous - [x] Adjacent - [ ] Diverse Boundary - [ ] Facing > **Explanation:** The term "adjacent" is broader than "adjoining contiguous." Adjacent properties are near each other, but contiguous properties must touch. ### Can "adjoining contiguous" properties be part of a legal dispute? - [x] Yes, especially over boundary lines - [ ] No, they're legally distinct - [ ] Only in commercial transactions - [ ] Only in rural areas > **Explanation:** Adjoining contiguous properties can be subject to legal disputes, especially when boundary lines are unclear or contested. ### Which agency often resolves disputes involving adjoining contiguous properties? - [ ] Real estate agents - [x] Local courts or legal systems - [ ] Homeowner associations - [ ] Property managers > **Explanation:** Local courts or legal systems often resolve disputes involving property boundaries and adjoining contiguous properties. ### What type of documentation typically defines the boundary of adjoining properties? - [ ] Surveyor's stakes alone - [x] Legal descriptions in deeds - [ ] Property owner's agreements - [ ] Neighborhood maps > **Explanation:** Legal descriptions in deeds usually define the precise boundaries of adjoining properties. ### If a property has an easement on its boundary, can it still be considered "adjoining contiguous"? - [x] Yes, if the easement doesn't separate ownership - [ ] No, easements eliminate contiguity - [ ] Only for commercial properties - [ ] Only for public lands > **Explanation:** An easement can be present without eliminating the status of properties being "adjoining contiguous" as long as ownership boundaries are shared. ### How might tax assessment be affected for adjoining contiguous properties sold together? - [x] Both properties might be assessed higher - [ ] Only the larger property is reassessed - [ ] Tax rates remain unchanged - [ ] Only the smaller property changes > **Explanation:** Selling adjoining contiguous properties together could lead to a higher tax assessment since the combined parcel might have a higher overall value. ### Why is the concept of "adjoining contiguous" important in real estate development? - [ ] Determines fencing requirements - [x] Influences property value and development potential - [ ] Affects rent pricing strategies - [ ] Changes local zoning laws automatically > **Explanation:** The concept of "adjoining contiguous" is crucial in real estate development because it can influence property value and development potential by considering the combined uses of adjoining parcels.