What is the defining characteristic of Metes and Bounds land description?

The defining characteristic of Metes and Bounds land description is that it relies on a specific starting and ending point, often tied to prominent landmarks. This method describes the boundaries of a property by using physical features of the geography, distances, and angles to create a detailed outline of the land's perimeter. The description includes directions and distances from one point to another, making it unique and specific to the given parcel of land.

In this context, the use of landmarks allows for a tangible reference that can often be physically observed in the landscape, making the Metes and Bounds system practical for differentiating one parcel from another in various terrains. This method contrasts with other systems such as block and lot numbers, which are more abstract and based on a predefined grid or zoning map rather than physical characteristics. Additionally, although assessments can take market conditions into account, this is not a distinguishing feature of Metes and Bounds, which focuses solely on the physical description of the land itself.