Totally relate to this. Online tools are handy, but they're definitely not foolproof. A couple years back we were looking at a property to build on, and the online maps showed it clear as day—no easements, no issues. But when we chatted with neighbors, turns out there was an old utility easement running right through the spot we wanted for a pool. Dodged a bullet there...
• Always good to chat with neighbors who've been around awhile—they often know things even county offices might miss.
• Digitized records are great for quick checks, but they're not always updated or accurate enough for major decisions.
• I've learned it's best to combine online tools with some traditional legwork—like talking directly to city planners or long-time locals.
Curious if anyone's had luck getting outdated or incorrect online records fixed? Seems like that could save others from headaches down the road...
Had a similar situation recently. Online maps showed everything clear, but when we talked to the city planner, turns out there was a drainage easement that wasn't listed anywhere online. Pretty frustrating since we'd already mentally planned out the backyard layout...
We did ask about updating the records, and the planner said they'd "look into it," but honestly, I got the impression it's not high on their priority list. Seems like these online tools are great for initial research, but you definitely can't rely solely on them for big decisions—lesson learned.
Agree completely about neighbors, though. Ours casually mentioned the drainage issue in passing one day, which prompted us to dig deeper (no pun intended). Saved us from a potentially expensive mistake. Guess there's no substitute for good old-fashioned conversations sometimes.
Had a similar experience with a client recently—online records looked squeaky clean, but when we started marking out the foundation, surprise... buried utility easement right through the planned garage. Luckily, the neighbor wandered over with coffee and casually asked if we knew about it. Saved us from a major headache (and probably a few gray hairs). Online tools are handy, but nothing beats chatting up the locals and double-checking with city hall before breaking ground.
Had something similar happen last year—online maps showed nothing unusual, but city hall had a totally different story. Makes me wonder, are these online tools ever updated regularly or just occasionally...? Seems safer to always cross-check in person.
Ran into this exact issue myself a few months back. Online maps are handy for a quick glance, but they're definitely not foolproof. From what I've seen, updates can be pretty sporadic—depends on the city and even the specific neighborhood. Best bet is exactly what you did: cross-checking with city hall directly. Takes a bit more time, sure, but saves headaches down the road... Good call on your part.
