Had something similar happen when we bought our place years ago. The previous owners had put up a shed that turned out to be partly on the neighbor's property—only found out when the neighbor sold and the new folks moved in and asked about it. We were lucky, honestly; they were reasonable people. We agreed to move the shed ourselves, no fuss, but man...that weekend was a pain. Took three buddies and a lot more beer than expected.
But I've heard some horror stories from friends who've gotten lawyers involved because neighbors wouldn't budge over inches of land. Makes me wonder if it's worth escalating over small stuff or just biting the bullet and compromising to keep peace...
Honestly, situations like these are exactly why I always recommend getting a property survey done when buying a house. It's an extra cost upfront, sure, but it can save you from headaches (and beer runs) down the road. If you're already in a boundary dispute, here's what I'd suggest: first, check your deed and any existing surveys; second, talk calmly with your neighbor—sometimes a friendly chat solves everything; and third, if needed, consult a real estate attorney. But yeah...compromise usually beats court battles over inches of grass.
"compromise usually beats court battles over inches of grass."
True, compromise is ideal, but sometimes neighbors just won't budge. Had a client once who tried the friendly chat route...ended up needing mediation anyway. Surveys help, but they're not bulletproof—boundaries can still get messy.
"Surveys help, but they're not bulletproof—boundaries can still get messy."
Yep, seen this happen plenty of times. Surveys are great, but they're not always the magic wand people hope for. Had a client last year who got a survey done thinking it'd clear things right up...turns out the neighbor had their own survey, and guess what? They didn't match. Cue the headaches and awkward driveway conversations.
Honestly, the best outcomes I've seen usually come from mediation or just plain old-fashioned compromise. Sure, it can feel frustrating to give up a few inches of grass, but trust me, it's usually cheaper (and way less stressful) than dragging things through court. Plus, keeping things friendly with neighbors pays off big-time in the long run—think neighborhood BBQs and borrowing that leaf blower when yours conks out mid-yard cleanup.
Had a similar headache when I bought my place. Survey lines were clear on paper, but the neighbor had been mowing "my" side for years. Ended up splitting the difference—cheaper than lawyers and kept things civil. Sometimes practicality beats principle...
