Tract

A tract, or parcel, of land is a defined area of real estate, typically held for the purpose of subdividing into smaller plots for development or sale.

Definition

A tract (also known as a parcel) of land is a defined area of real estate, generally held with the intention of subdividing it into smaller plots. Tracts are typically of significant size and located in areas earmarked for development. This process can involve dividing the land into residential, commercial, or industrial plots, which are called subdivisions.

Examples

  1. Residential Development: An investor acquires a large tract of farmland with the intention of converting it into a suburban residential subdivision, consisting of individual home lots.

  2. Industrial Park: A real estate developer purchases an extensive tract of unused urban land to develop an industrial park, subdividing it into separate plots for factories and warehouses.

  3. Retail Complex: A company buys a tract of land near a growing city and subdivides it into plots for a shopping mall and surrounding stores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the difference between a tract and a parcel?

  • A: The terms tract and parcel are often used interchangeably, with both referring to a defined piece of land. A tract is typically used when referring to a larger expanse of land, while parcel may refer to a smaller plot.

Q2: What is the process involved in subdividing a tract of land?

  • A: Subdividing a tract involves dividing the larger area into smaller lots, followed by obtaining necessary governmental approvals, planning infrastructure, and marketing the new subdivisions for sale or lease.

Q3: What are common uses for subdividing tracts of land?

  • A: Common uses include residential housing developments, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and recreational areas.
  • Subdivision: A tract of land divided into smaller plots.
  • Real Estate Development: The process of improving land for residential, commercial, or industrial use.
  • Zoning: Government regulation specifying the types of land use (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial) permissible in each designated tract or parcel.

Online References

  1. Investopedia on Land Development
  2. Wikipedia - Real Estate Development

Suggested Books for Further Studies

  • “The Real Estate Development Matrix” by Daniel B. Kohlhepp
  • “Professional Real Estate Development: The ULI Guide to the Business” by Richard B. Peiser and David Hamilton
  • “Land Development Handbook” by Dewberry

Fundamentals of Tract: Real Estate Development Basics Quiz

### What does the term "tract" refer to in real estate? - [x] A defined area of land. - [ ] A small plot used for gardening. - [ ] A small section of a building. - [ ] A type of real estate financing. > **Explanation:** In real estate, a 'tract' refers to a defined area of land, typically a large parcel intended for subdivision and development. ### What is the main purpose of a tract of land in real estate terms? - [ ] For temporary storage. - [x] For subdividing into smaller plots. - [ ] For recreational use only. - [ ] For historical preservation. > **Explanation:** A tract of land in real estate is generally held for the purpose of subdividing it into smaller plots for various uses such as residential, commercial, or industrial development. ### Which is not a common use of a subdivided tract? - [ ] Residential housing. - [ ] Industrial facilities. - [x] Airplane manufacturing. - [ ] Commercial buildings. > **Explanation:** While residential housing, industrial facilities, and commercial buildings are common uses for subdivided tracts of land, airplane manufacturing is not typically associated with such subdivisions. ### What is a subdivision? - [x] A tract of land divided into smaller plots. - [ ] The process of merging several small plots into one large tract. - [ ] Zoning regulation specification. - [ ] An individual residential home plot. > **Explanation:** A subdivision is a tract of land divided into smaller, more manageable plots for various forms of development. ### Why is zoning important in the context of a tract of land? - [x] It specifies permissible land uses within the tract. - [ ] It determines street names within the subdivision. - [ ] It records the historical significance of the land. - [ ] It funds the construction of the subdivisions. > **Explanation:** Zoning is important because it specifies the types of land use (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial) that are allowed in each designated tract or parcel, guiding the development process. ### Who generally handles the process of subdividing a tract of land? - [ ] Local homebuyers. - [ ] Government agencies. - [x] Real estate developers. - [ ] Agricultural workers. > **Explanation:** Real estate developers usually handle the process of subdividing a tract of land, from planning and obtaining necessary approvals to infrastructure development and marketing the subdivisions. ### What must developers often obtain before subdividing a tract? - [ ] A survey from local historians. - [ ] Approval from the local homeowners' association. - [x] Governmental approvals. - [ ] Recommendations from local schools. > **Explanation:** Before subdividing a tract, developers must typically obtain the necessary governmental approvals, ensuring that the proposed subdivision complies with zoning and land use regulations. ### In a tract subdivision, what is most likely to be included in residential development? - [ ] Large water reservoirs. - [ ] Forest conservation zones. - [x] Individual home lots. - [ ] Manufacturing plants. > **Explanation:** In a residential development involving a tract subdivision, individual home lots are typically a key component. ### Tracts are often located in which types of areas? - [x] Areas earmarked for development. - [ ] Historical landmarks. - [ ] Areas of environmental preservation. - [ ] Existing large metropolitan downtowns. > **Explanation:** Tracts are often located in areas earmarked for development, as they are poised for conversion into residential, commercial, or industrial subdivisions. ### What aspect of real estate is primarily associated with tracts? - [ ] Financing options. - [ ] Individual lease agreements. - [x] Development and subdivision. - [ ] Property maintenance services. > **Explanation:** The term 'tract' in real estate is primarily associated with the development and subdivision aspect, involving the division of large lands into smaller, developable plots.

Thank you for exploring the concept of tracts in real estate development and challenging your understanding through our quiz. Continue enhancing your knowledge and expertise in the dynamic field of real estate!


Wednesday, August 7, 2024

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