When you are buying a home in South Tampa ZIP Code 33629, the fence around the property may seem like a simple detail. But after more than 40 years of combined real estate experience, Emeri and Joe Lewkowicz of The Lewkowicz Group know that property boundaries, fences, landscaping, driveways, and other improvements can sometimes raise important questions during a real estate transaction.
In an established area like 33629, where properties can have mature landscaping, older improvements, and varying lot configurations, knowing exactly where the property begins and ends is an important part of making an informed purchase.
A Fence Does Not Necessarily Mark the Legal Property Line
One of the first things we tell buyers is not to automatically assume that an existing fence represents the true property boundary.
A fence may have been installed years ago based on an old understanding of the lot line—or it may have been placed slightly inside or outside the actual boundary. The same issue can apply to hedges, landscaping, sheds, pools, driveways, walls, or other improvements.
The Hillsborough County Property Appraiser provides useful parcel information, but its mapping resources specifically state that those maps are not legal surveys and should not be relied upon to establish ownership or replace a professional survey.
“That distinction matters,” says Emeri Lewkowicz. “When you're purchasing a home, you want to understand what you're actually buying—not simply what appears to be enclosed by a fence.”
Why a Survey Can Be So Valuable
For buyers who have questions about lot lines or existing improvements, a professional boundary survey can provide much greater clarity.
Florida's surveying standards require a boundary surveyor to research relevant records and identify the location of record boundaries as well as conflicting boundary locations affecting the property.
This can be particularly helpful if you are considering future improvements such as a new fence, pool, addition, outdoor structure, or landscaping project.
Joe Lewkowicz often encourages buyers to think beyond the immediate purchase.
“If you are buying the home because you love the backyard or envision adding something later, we want to know that the property can actually support those plans,” Joe explains. “A boundary question that seems minor today can become much more important when you're ready to build.”
Look for Encroachments and Easements
Another issue buyers should investigate is an encroachment—when an improvement from one property extends onto another property.
According to the Florida Department of Financial Services, examples of property encroachments can include fences, bushes, and sheds. Easements can also affect how a property can be used.
These matters do not automatically mean a purchase should be abandoned. Instead, they are issues that should be identified, understood, and addressed appropriately before closing.
Don't Overlook Title and Survey Information
Title work is another important piece of the puzzle. Title insurance can address certain title-related risks, but policies also contain exclusions and exceptions. The Florida Department of Financial Services recommends reviewing those exclusions carefully.
Florida law also provides specific rules concerning surveys and title-policy exceptions involving matters such as encroachments and boundary disputes.
For buyers, the takeaway is simple: don't wait until after closing to ask questions about a questionable fence or property line.
The Lewkowicz Group's South Tampa Perspective
For Emeri and Joe Lewkowicz, understanding the property is about more than looking at the house itself. It means looking at the lot, surrounding properties, improvements, neighborhood characteristics, and the buyer's long-term plans.
With decades of combined experience helping buyers, sellers, and investors navigate Tampa real estate, Emeri and Joe understand why seemingly small property details can matter.
If you're considering purchasing a home in 33629 or throughout South Tampa, talk with The Lewkowicz Group early in the process. Emeri and Joe can help you identify questions worth investigating and coordinate with the appropriate professionals when a survey, title review, or other property research is warranted.
In real estate, knowing where your property ends can be just as important as knowing what begins inside the front door.
