Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida

easment?

I own 2 ajoining lots in Sarasota county FL. Both lots are 275' deep. Lot 1 has a house on the front of it. Lot 2 has a house in the rear of it.The driveway to the rear house on lot 2 is mostly on lot 1's property.

If I was to sell lot 2 with the house in the rear, what would I do to guarantee use of the driveway, in the future.

Also, how would I sell lot2 with the rear house, if I wanted to include in the sale , the rear 1/2 of lot 1.?

Thanks


Asked on 10/28/01, 10:14 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Robert Restivo Restivo Law Firm

Re: easment?

Im not sure I understand the layout of these parcels. You state that each is 275 deep. I take from this that each has road frontage. If thats the case, than no action is required regarding an easement for a driveway. An easement is only necessary if Lot 2, with the back house had no road frontage.

Even if a common driveway is used, it need not continue if the driveway is completely on one lot.

If Lot 2 has no road access, then an easement will be created, even if its not specified in the deed. However, creating it in the deed is the cleanest method.

But, I believe you have two lots, each with road access. I will assume that Lot 1 has a common driveway that Lot 2 uses. If you want to continue this, without giving up ownership of the driveway, all you really need to do is post a sign that says substantially, Right to pass by permission of owner. Then, no prescriptive rights will accrue in Lot 2.

If youre just selling Lot 2, and keeping Lot 1, and each has road access, my recommendation is to create a new driveway for Lot 2 and avoid the easement question entirely.

Next, selling a lot and a half. My assumption is that you will create an L shaped Lot 2, and a small box shaped Lot 1. This must be done though the use of a land surveyor, or similar professional. Lot 1 needs to be split. Check with your local planning department to get the specifics. Then, sell Lot 2 and a newly created Lot 3. Lot 1 will be the front house on the front half of Lot 1.

Hope this helped.

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Answered on 11/25/01, 12:32 am


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