Section 1 of 15
Property Identification
This section identifies the property being purchased. It includes the street address, city, county, zip code, and — critically — the legal description of the property as recorded with the county.
The legal description is what defines the actual boundaries of the land. It comes from the county recorder's office or a prior deed and is more precise than a street address. The tax parcel number (tax ID) is also included here to link the contract to the correct county records.
What happens if this is left blank?
If the legal description is left blank or inaccurate, the contract may not be enforceable because it's unclear what property is actually being sold. Most title companies will catch this during the title search, but an incorrect legal description can delay closing.
Utah-specific context
In Utah, the legal description typically uses a metes-and-bounds system or a lot-and-block system referencing a recorded plat. For condos, the description references the unit number and the recorded declaration of condominium.
Common questions about this section
Where do I find the legal description?
You can find it on the current deed, on the county assessor's website using the parcel number, or from the title company during the title search. Your title company will verify it before closing.
What if the address doesn't match the legal description?
The legal description controls. If there's a mismatch, the title company will flag it. Do not close without resolving this — it could mean you're buying different land than you think.
Need to submit an offer?
Aletheia provides structured offer tools to help you get started.