How Surveys Help Determine the Highest and Best Use of Commercial Land
"Texas, often referred to as the Lone Star State, is a thriving hub for economic growth and innovation, making it an attractive destination for commercial real estate investment." - Chris Evans
How Surveys Help Determine the Highest and Best Use of Commercial Land in Texas
In commercial real estate, the value of a property isn’t just based on its size or location—it’s shaped by its highest and best use. Whether the land becomes a retail center, office development, industrial hub, or multifamily project depends heavily on information revealed by a commercial land survey.
Here’s how surveying plays a key role in determining the most profitable and feasible use of a commercial site in Texas.
1. Establishing Accurate Site Boundaries
Before determining potential land use, you must understand:
Total acreage
Buildable square footage
Setbacks
Shape of the parcel
Boundary clarity directly affects which types of developments will fit on the property.
2. Evaluating Terrain and Elevation for Cost Efficiency
Topographic surveys show:
Steep areas requiring grading
Natural drainage paths
Flood-prone zones
High points ideal for building placement
Certain land types are more suited for industrial, retail, or multifamily development based on grading and drainage costs.
3. Identifying Easements and Title Limitations
Easements can eliminate or limit certain uses, such as:
Gas line easements restricting building placement
Drainage easements reducing paving areas
Access easements affecting parking layouts
A survey helps determine whether the planned use is realistic—or financially viable.
4. Determining Access and Visibility
Surveys verify legal access and roadway boundaries, influencing:
Traffic counts
Signage opportunities
Entrance/exit placement
Commercial visibility
Retail users, in particular, depend on strong access visibility.
5. Mapping Utility Availability
Different development types require different utility capacities. Survey data helps identify:
Water and sewer availability
Electrical service options
Gas and telecom access
Upgrade needs
Feasibility depends heavily on whether utilities are sufficient.
Final Thoughts
To identify the highest and best use of a property, investors need accurate, reliable survey data. South Texas Surveying provides the foundational land information that developers rely on to unlock the full potential of their commercial sites.
