Knowing the precise boundaries of your property is more than just settling a neighborly dispute; it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring compliance with local regulations. This guide explores the often-confusing world of property surveys, explaining where you can find a copy of your land survey, from free public records to professional surveyor services, and even how to access affordable alternatives. Understanding the cost factors and practical steps involved in obtaining copies of these crucial documents—where can I get a copy of my land survey—will empower you to make informed decisions about your property. Whether you’re facing a potential boundary dispute, planning a home renovation, or simply seeking clarification on your property’s legal limits, this article offers a comprehensive resource for finding accurate and affordable survey information.
Understanding your property’s boundaries is crucial, and often the first step in protecting your property rights. This section delves into the essential details of land surveys, explaining what they are, why you might need one, and, importantly, how to find a free or affordable copy of your land survey. We’ll explore various avenues, from public records to professional surveyors, to help you find the most accurate and cost-effective solution.
What is a Land Survey?
A land survey is a precise geometric determination of a piece of land. Its purpose is to define the boundaries, area, and location of a property. This critical process helps establish a clear understanding of property lines, often the first step in maintaining and protecting your property rights. Crucially, a land survey provides a detailed, accurate map of the property’s boundaries and features, acting as a definitive record for ownership and use. This record is vital for property transactions and resolving potential disputes—like neighborly disagreements—down the line.
Commonly used types of land surveys include boundary surveys (determining property lines), topographic surveys (showing surface features like elevation), and control surveys (creating a framework for mapping). [Link to a helpful resource about different types of surveys]. Each type serves a specific purpose, informing different needs in property ownership and development. [Add a relevant image showing different types of surveys if possible.]
Land surveys are incredibly important in property ownership and transactions. They provide crucial evidence of legal boundaries, enabling clear documentation of property ownership. During a sale, a survey assures buyers of the exact dimensions and location of the property. Furthermore, they are invaluable in resolving boundary disputes and ensuring compliance with local regulations, safeguarding against potential legal issues or future problems with neighbors or municipal authorities. Without a comprehensive and up-to-date land survey, significant problems could arise, like disputes over property lines, misunderstandings about property dimensions, and concerns when building additions or improvements.
Why You Might Need a Copy of Your Land Survey
A land survey is more than just a piece of paper; it’s a crucial document detailing the precise boundaries of your property. Understanding your property boundaries is paramount for several reasons. A clear survey map helps prevent misunderstandings with neighbors about property lines, which can lead to costly disputes and headaches. Imagine a fence mistakenly encroaching on your neighbor’s land—a survey provides definitive proof of where the line truly lies. This is especially important when considering potential boundary disputes, and might even serve as leverage in resolving conflict.
Resolving disputes with neighbors over easements, access rights, or shared property features can often be complicated. A copy of your land survey can act as an essential tool to help clarify these issues and demonstrate your property’s rightful ownership. It documents the exact location of structures, utilities, and other features relevant to your land, making it easier to identify potential encroachment concerns or resolve disagreements fairly and efficiently. [Source needed – hypothetical example] Having this documentation can protect your rights and investments.
Furthermore, compliance with local regulations is another key factor. Many zoning ordinances and building codes rely on accurate property survey information. If you’re planning to build an addition, remodel, or make other significant improvements, you’ll likely need a current survey to ensure your project adheres to local regulations and avoids potential legal issues. For example, a survey can show if a proposed building sits within setback requirements or if an intended well placement complies with water table regulations. This prevents costly mistakes down the road by helping you navigate local jurisdictions’ specific criteria. [Source needed – hypothetical example] Obtaining a copy of your land survey documentation may be critical during renovations or construction.
Common Sources for Obtaining a Copy
Locating your land survey can range from a simple online search to contacting professionals. Understanding the various sources and their associated costs is key. Different avenues offer varying degrees of accessibility and affordability, each bearing its unique characteristics.
Different places to source land surveys: Your land survey, essentially a map detailing property boundaries, can be found in various locations. Public records, often housed in county clerk or recorder’s offices, are a common starting point. These offices maintain historical records of land transactions and surveys, and in some jurisdictions, these records are accessible online. Neighborhood associations or community resources, which sometimes keep copies of surveys accessible to residents, are another avenue to explore. Professional land surveyors are experienced providers, but often charge for copies. Real estate agents and title companies may also possess or have access to surveys during a transaction. And, lastly, some older surveys might be archived in local libraries or historical societies.
Importance of accuracy and up-to-date information: The accuracy of your survey is crucial. Outdated or inaccurate information can lead to disputes, errors in property measurements, or hinder future development or construction. Always prioritize obtaining the most recent survey available, or, failing that, one that has been officially certified as a true and complete representation of the property boundaries. Verify the authenticity of the document to ensure it’s a reliable source. This is essential in real estate transactions and property ownership and is often a critical step in clarifying potential issues.
Variability of costs associated with acquiring surveys: The cost of obtaining a survey copy varies significantly. Some resources, like public records accessible by local government offices, might provide this for free. However, searching for specific historical survey documents in public records might require fees depending on the jurisdiction and the required actions or services. Title companies and real estate agents, when involved in the process, may charge fees as part of their service, depending on their involvement. Professional land surveyors will charge for their time and expertise to retrieve or create copies. Always inquire about potential charges beforehand to budget effectively.
Finding your land survey doesn’t have to be a daunting task. This section provides practical tips on how to efficiently locate your property survey, from gathering crucial information like your property’s address and parcel number to effectively searching online and contacting surveying companies for copies. Learn how to streamline your search, interpret online data, and compare surveyor quotes to get your land survey cost-effectively, and hopefully, for free or affordably.
To efficiently locate your land survey, gathering the necessary information is crucial. This initial step significantly streamlines your search and ensures you request the correct document.
Compiling Property Details (Address, Parcel Number): Start by meticulously compiling all relevant property details. Your address is a fundamental starting point, but more importantly, you’ll need the parcel number. This unique identifier, often found on property tax records, deeds, or previous surveys, directly links to your specific piece of land. Without the parcel number, locating your survey becomes significantly more challenging, potentially leading to confusion and delays. Contact your local county assessor’s office or the county recorder’s office for assistance if you do not have the parcel number. [Link to county assessor/recorder website – Replace with appropriate link]
Importance of Having Previous Survey Information: If you possess a previous land survey, this is invaluable. It acts as a crucial roadmap, enabling you to quickly locate any relevant survey by connecting you to critical information such as the surveyor’s name, date of the survey, and a general description of the property. This information could prove critical if the survey you’re looking for is from a private surveyor. It also helps establish continuity and pinpoint any discrepancies that might arise between different versions of the survey.
Tips for Identifying the Correct Survey to Request: When looking for a survey, consider the time frame it was conducted. If there were significant changes to the property boundaries (e.g., construction), a newer survey could be crucial. Consider the purpose of your search. Are you reviewing existing boundaries prior to purchasing or selling? Is it for resolving a boundary dispute? A potential surveyor may ask these questions upfront, and can provide you with valuable information related to when surveys were completed and the purpose of each one. The more information you can provide, the easier it will be to pinpoint the correct and relevant document. Having a clear understanding of the property’s history, particularly regarding its boundaries and any previous surveys, significantly assists in the identification and subsequent retrieval process.
Utilizing Online Search Tools
Finding your land survey online can be a quick and cost-effective starting point. Several tools and search engines can help you locate historical records or information about your property boundaries. For example, try searching using general online tools like Google Search, especially if you have any specific keywords, alongside dedicated online record repositories. Keep in mind that, in addition to web searches, some local government websites have their own online record portals, which may be more tailored to the area but often require local knowledge to navigate. These tools often allow you to search by property address, parcel number, or owner’s name. Understanding how best to use these platforms is crucial.
How to effectively use keywords for searches: When searching online, use specific and accurate keywords related to land surveys. Include your property’s address, parcel number (if known), the name of the county where the property is located, and potentially the date the survey was done. If you have a copy of a previous survey, or details about the survey’s surveyor in your records, these can be essential search arguments in your query. Consider using synonyms for words like “survey” (e.g., “plat,” “property boundary”), and combining these terms with the specifics of your property. Thorough keyword combinations will potentially help you narrow your search for results.
Tips for interpreting online data and resources: Searching online will likely yield diverse results. Be careful when evaluating the source of the information. Official government websites are typically reliable, offering more assurance about the completeness and accuracy of the resources found there. Be wary of unofficial or non-government sources, especially if a fee or cost is mentioned. Be sure to examine the website’s “About Us” or similar page for information on who maintains the record, and when the data was last revised. Look for clear formatting and well-structured data, as it often indicates the source’s credibility. If the survey doesn’t appear complete on the site, it might indicate it’s not a legally binding or official result. If details are missing or in an incomplete format, contacting local authorities for further clarification or obtaining copies from physical sources may be required.
Contacting Surveying Companies
To find your land survey, contacting surveying companies directly is often necessary, especially for obtaining a copy. Preparation is key to a productive conversation. Before reaching out, gather your property’s essential details: the full address, any parcel or legal description number, and if you have one, your existing survey information. This readily available information significantly streamlines the process. You’ll also want to know what type of survey you are looking for. Different types of property surveys (boundary, topographic, etc.) might have differing costs and availability. Avoid frustrating the surveyor with vague questions.
When contacting surveying companies, be prepared to ask specific questions about the availability of your survey. Inquire about their normal turnaround times for obtaining copies. This allows you to factor in appropriate and realistic timelines. Crucially, ask about their pricing structures. A good surveyor will provide a transparent and detailed quote for copying an existing survey. Don’t be afraid to ask about their fees, especially if you’re looking for a cost-effective option. Additionally, ascertain their payment methods. It’s vital to know the process for any payments associated with your inquiry well in advance. A thorough and detailed quote encompassing the scope and extent of work ensures you are aware of all costs upfront.
Comparing responses from multiple surveying companies helps you analyze various options and find the most suitable one based on quality, cost, turnaround time, and service. Consider whether the surveying company is knowledgeable about the area, or specializes in surveying the type of property. This can impact their understanding of the terrain and complexities of any historical surveys related to your property. Look for companies with established reputations and positive reviews from other clients for a trustworthy experience. Carefully evaluating responses allows you to select the option that fits your budget and requirements. Be cautious of companies that provide unclear or overly vague quotes. A specific price and timeframe makes it possible to effectively contrast options. Don’t settle for the first company you contact; thorough comparison is critical to choosing the best value for your money.
Finding a free or affordable copy of your land survey isn’t always a straightforward task. This section explores various avenues, from local government offices to online resources and even neighborhood associations, providing practical guidance on where to potentially obtain these crucial documents. We’ll cover how to request copies using public records laws, navigate online databases (and potential associated fees), and discover how community resources, such as homeowner associations, might offer assistance with obtaining your land survey. Whether you need a copy for a property transaction or simply wish to understand your property lines, this information will help you determine where to start your search.
Local Government Offices
Your first stop for potentially free or low-cost land survey information should be your local government offices. Specifically, the County Clerk or Recorder’s office is a valuable resource. These offices often maintain public records, including historical land surveys. They are, however, less likely to have complete current surveys readily available, and the specifics differ by jurisdiction.
To request documents, you’ll typically need to use public records laws. These vary by state and county, but generally involve providing information about the property (like the address, or parcel number). Consult your county clerk’s website or office directly for the proper forms and procedures. In many instances, providing the required information will allow officials to locate and provide a copy of any publicly recorded survey. Be prepared to potentially answer questions about the survey and the reason for your request.
Keep in mind that not all survey documents are automatically free. While some jurisdictions make digital copies publicly available, there are limitations: you might face fees for copies if the records aren’t readily digitally searchable, depending on specific policies. Archival documents, particularly older ones, might be restricted from public access under specific circumstances. Understand the possible costs beforehand. Before you travel, it’s always best to check the specific website for your county clerk’s office, or give them a call, to know the current fees and policies.
Online Public Records Databases: Finding Your Land Survey
Online public records databases are a valuable resource for obtaining copies of your land survey, potentially saving you money compared to directly contacting surveyors. These databases often hold digitized versions of documents, including surveys. However, access and availability vary depending on the jurisdiction.
Overview of online resources and databases: Many counties and states maintain online portals that allow searching for public records. These sites often let you search by property address, parcel number (a unique identifier for a piece of land), or owner name. Look for terms like “property records,” “county recorder,” or “county clerk” in your area’s online search. Resources like [county website example] (insert example link here) are good starting points. Be aware that not all jurisdictions have comprehensive online databases or readily available digitized land survey records.
How to search for your land survey online: Begin by gathering accurate property information, including the full street address, and the parcel number if known. Often these resources have specific field names for each aspect of the record. Use these keywords in your search. Some sites might require creating an account or have limited free searches. Carefully review any search results to ensure they contain the survey you need. If you need more information, it may be helpful to contact the county clerk’s office directly; they can often guide you through accessing additional records. Some resources limit the portions of the survey available online, and may only provide portions of the data unless you pay a fee for a full copy.
Potential fees for additional data or prints: While initial searches are frequently free, there might be charges for specific information, additional copies, or printouts, especially for those with more detailed data and more recent property documentation. Review the terms and fees before committing to any fees. Always contact the relevant court or recording office for the most current and precise information about fees and available resources. Be mindful that if you find a partial document online, you may need to contact the responsible parties, such as the county clerk’s office, to obtain a complete version.
Neighborhood Associations and Community Resources
Local homeowner associations (HOAs) and community resources can sometimes be valuable avenues for obtaining a copy of your land survey, depending on the specific circumstances. HOAs, particularly those with established records and a history of managing property boundaries, might have copies of surveys relevant to the neighborhood. They may be willing to share this information if it pertains to property lines that affect multiple homeowners. Sometimes, a shared survey could be helpful to a homeowner if they are trying to understand their property lines relative to other properties in the neighborhood.
Within a community, informal sharing of survey information might occur between neighbors or through community bulletin boards or social media groups. However, this is not always reliable and should be approached cautiously. Ensure the information is accurate and properly authenticated. Reaching out to understand if any recorded community surveys exist is worth pursuing, as it might lead to a free or low-cost option.
To approach an HOA for assistance, prepare a clear and concise request outlining your need for information. Clearly identify the property and details you need (e.g., address, parcel number). Emphasize your interest in potentially free or low-cost options. Be respectful of the HOA’s time and resources. They might not be able to provide a copy, but they may know of other avenues to consider. Be prepared to show proof of ownership if necessary to avoid any misunderstandings. Always treat potential resources with respect and professionalism.
Finding a copy of your land survey doesn’t have to break the bank. This section explores affordable options for obtaining your land survey documents, from contacting local surveyors to leveraging real estate agents, title companies, or even local libraries and historical societies. We’ll delve into the cost factors associated with each approach and explain how to determine the best fit for your needs, helping you easily find a copy of your land survey at a price you can afford.
Professional land surveyors are often your best bet for obtaining an affordable copy of your land survey. While they might not always offer completely free copies, they can provide a crucial service for a reasonable price, potentially even including helpful additional information and supporting the transaction. Contacting local surveyors is a good starting point, and understanding their pricing structures is essential to finding the best fit for your needs. Be clear about what information you need. Are you looking for a copy of the entire survey, or just particular details like boundary measurements? A quick phone call or email to a few surveyors in your area can allow you to compare their fees and obtain an understanding of their services.
Surveyors often have flexible pricing models that depend on the survey’s complexity, the necessary field work, and their experience. Sometimes, they charge a flat fee for providing a copy of a previously completed survey. Other times, they will perform a new survey to provide the necessary documentation—often providing a copy of the original survey, or potentially an updated one accounting for any changes. Inquire about their various packages and options. Discuss the details of what you need to ensure you are comparing apples to apples. Some surveyors may offer additional services, such as a consultation about the results or clarification regarding the details of the survey. Others might provide updated boundary information, which is beneficial in determining the correct and relevant survey if land has been subdivided or otherwise altered. This additional assistance can offer both peace of mind and significant cost savings as opposed to having to hire an independent surveyor to resolve issues related to the boundary information in your survey.
When contacting surveyors, be prepared to provide them with your property details, which can save time and ensure they locate the right survey. Understanding their services will help determine if the surveyor’s expertise is worth the cost and if their services are suitable for your particular needs. This can range from a simple copy of a publicly available survey to a brand-new tailored assessment depending on your needs and the level of service you require. By understanding their pricing structure and the range of services, you can identify the most suitable professional for your property.
Real Estate Agents and Title Companies
Real estate agents and title companies are often vital resources for navigating the world of land surveys, particularly if you need an affordable or even free copy. How can they help you?
How Agents Can Assist: A real estate agent, especially one experienced with your locale, can often provide valuable insight into historical survey availability. They might have leads on where to find older survey documents or know of local resources for free or low-cost copies. They can also aid in understanding the survey’s relevance to your specific needs — for example, if you’re looking to build an addition, an agent can clarify if a survey from decades ago is still accurate or if an updated one is required. Remember, an agent’s primary role is to advise you, not necessarily handle the survey retrieval directly.
Title Companies’ Role: Title companies play a crucial role in many property transactions, and they often have access to (or can obtain) property records, including surveys, that are necessary for conducting a thorough title search. They ensure a property’s ownership history is clear, and a survey confirms property boundaries are as stated, protecting both buyer and seller. While they may have copies of surveys available, their primary function is not to provide general public access to surveys. They are often involved in the acquisition of surveys as part of a transaction.
Potential Costs: The involvement of a real estate agent or title company often comes with fees. These fees aren’t just for their usual services, but also for locating, reviewing, and sometimes obtaining a copy of the survey, depending on their specific procedures. The extent of their involvement and the cost will vary greatly based on the complexity of your request and their individual procedures. It’s important to discuss potential expenses upfront to avoid any surprises. Some title companies might require a survey update or offer options for procuring a less costly/less detailed survey as part of a transaction. Always get a clear understanding of the costs and the services being provided.
Local Libraries and Historical Societies
Sometimes, valuable historical records, including land surveys, reside within local libraries and historical societies. These institutions often hold meticulously compiled archives of past property records. While not always a guaranteed source, they can be a surprisingly fruitful place to search for your land survey, especially for older properties. Historical societies, in particular, frequently play a significant role in preserving and cataloging local history, including crucial documents like property and land records. The records kept in these archives might contain older, potentially invaluable records. However, keep in mind that the process of obtaining these records might be more involved compared to online digital databases.
Accessing archived land surveys in libraries often involves physical visits to the institution and navigating their document management systems. Librarians or archivists can be invaluable resources in guiding you through their collections. They might have specialized knowledge of record-keeping practices relevant to your specific property location. You should check their website for access hours and the appropriate procedures to request a copy of such records. It is highly possible there may be fees associated with accessing records, or charges for copies. Libraries might use systems for requesting materials, or even charge for copying services. Knowing the potential costs beforehand can help you plan your search efficiently.
Historical societies also maintain collections that can be exceptionally helpful. They often hold records related to the community’s entire history, including property and land transfers. This includes deeds, surveys, and other crucial documentation. However, these collections frequently aren’t completely digitized, and you often need to visit the society in person. Again, fees for research or copying might apply and understanding these costs beforehand is essential. Be prepared to dedicate time to potentially extensive research potentially involving physical searches of materials, and follow the procedures and protocols set forth by the library or historical society.
Researching local libraries and historical societies can yield valuable, sometimes free, or at least affordable, copies of historical land surveys if the records you need exist in their collections. Check their websites or call ahead to confirm availability and associated costs.
Having explored various avenues for securing your land survey, this section wraps up your search for affordable or free copies. We’ll recap the resources discussed, emphasizing accessible options like local government records and online databases, and encourage you to maintain accurate records for your property’s value and future peace of mind, all while addressing your key question: where can I get a copy of my land survey?
Recap of Available Resources
This guide has explored a variety of avenues for obtaining a copy of your land survey, whether free or at an affordable price. We’ve covered a range of options, from utilizing public records and online databases to contacting local surveyors, real estate agents, and even community resources. The key takeaway is that multiple avenues exist to fulfill your need, and often, starting with the most accessible and readily available options proves quite fruitful.
First, local government offices, such as county clerk or recorder’s offices, are often the first place to explore. These offices often hold the original or copies of land surveys as part of public records. Be aware that the availability and accessibility of these documents can vary based on local regulations and laws related to public records access; some jurisdictions may have specific fees or procedures for accessing land survey records. [Link to relevant public records law information – if available]. Remember to gather relevant information like your property’s address and parcel number to expedite your request.
Online public records databases provide another avenue to potentially discover your land survey digitally. Many jurisdictions are now beginning to digitize these records, offering an increasingly valuable resource. However, be prepared that these resources may not always be completely free; extra charges for printing or access to expanded data may apply. Research local resources to confirm availability and costs. Familiarize yourself with any accompanying search strategies or available search software.
Neighborhood associations and community resources can also prove helpful, especially if you know your survey might be shared within a community’s records. Homeowner’s associations (HOAs) or older residential communities might have documents stored related to boundary information that might include or be your survey.
Next, professional land surveyors are a crucial resource when seeking an affordable copy or, if necessary, a complete new survey. They can provide accurate copies and are experienced in handling such requests. However, understand that this approach may involve costs, though it is usually more affordable than commissioning a complete new survey. Contacting surveyors directly to inquire will generally allow you to understand their pricing structure and assess alternatives.
Finally, real estate agents and title companies can often assist. They usually have access to surveys in the course of property transactions, making direct inquiries worthwhile; however, they may charge a fee. Title companies are also often involved in property transactions and sometimes have access to survey documents in their files, although this is not always guaranteed or a routine practice.
In essence, the best approach is often to start locally. County clerk’s offices and possibly online records databases are excellent first points. Be prepared to do some research and understand the specifics regarding each option before making a substantial effort. Don’t hesitate to reach out to multiple resources to find the most suitable and cost-effective option for you. Remember to prioritize accuracy and ensure the documentation you obtain is up-to-date and relevant to your specific property.
Encouragement to Keep Records Updated
Having the most up-to-date land survey is crucial for maintaining accurate property value and avoiding future disputes. Regular record-keeping ensures you’re always aware of your property’s boundaries and any changes. Staying informed about land surveys also benefits your long-term property ownership.
Importance of having the latest survey for property value
A current land survey provides a precise depiction of your property’s boundaries, impacting your property’s value and sale price. Outdated surveys might not reflect recent changes like encroachments or adjustments, potentially leading to costly misunderstandings during a transaction. A clear understanding of your property’s limits is vital for accurate property taxation and insurance assessments as well. This will ensure that you have a solid basis for understanding the worth of your property.
Advice on how to maintain property documentation regularly
Maintaining organized property documentation is a proactive approach to long-term peace of mind. Create a dedicated folder or digital file system for all important documents, including your land survey, deeds, tax records, and any correspondence with surveyors or neighbors. Regularly review these records to stay informed of any updates or modifications to your property boundaries. Consider creating a timeline of significant events, including survey dates, property transfer dates, and any boundary adjustments. Marking these events on a map with the property’s coordinates can be beneficial. This also helps in understanding any historical context relevant to your property. This documentation approach can help you in the case of any future inquiries or disagreements.
Benefits of staying informed about land surveys
Staying informed about land surveys ensures you’re prepared for potential property-related situations. Knowledge of survey methodologies and local regulations aids you in resolving disagreements with neighbors, understanding proposed construction projects, and navigating real estate transactions. You’ll be better equipped to discern potential issues arising from overlapping property lines or encroachments. This knowledge significantly reduces the risk of disputes or costly legal battles in the future. Staying on top of these details ensures a smooth and informed approach to property management.
Final Thoughts on Property Ownership
Understanding your property’s boundaries is crucial for long-term ownership. Land surveys, whether free or affordable, play a vital role in defining these boundaries. They provide a critical record of your property’s legal location, ensuring clarity about its location relative to adjacent properties. This clarity is invaluable for avoiding future disputes, maintaining accurate property records, and understanding the full extent of your rights and responsibilities as a property owner. Knowing where your property ends and your neighbor’s begins promotes peaceful coexistence and can significantly reduce the potential for conflicts over shared boundaries.
Awareness of your property rights is equally important. A thorough understanding of your land survey and the relevant local regulations is essential to exercising these rights effectively. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your property, whether it’s planning renovations, selling the property, or resolving boundary-related disputes. Understanding your property lines enables you to avoid unintentional encroachments, ensure compliance with building codes, and potentially identify encroachments by your neighbours.
Open communication with neighbors and local authorities is key to fostering a harmonious and compliant property ownership experience. Knowing your property lines and having those documented clearly can prevent misunderstandings and disputes that could arise over shared areas or encroachments. It encourages proactive dialogue, creating a positive relationship with those living around you. By maintaining open communication channels with local authorities, you stay compliant with relevant zoning laws and building regulations, contributing to a more organized and well-managed community. Sharing survey information, where appropriate, can facilitate respectful negotiations and prevent future problems, making sure everyone is on the same page regarding property boundaries. Consulting local government and surveying agencies for clarification on zoning ordinances can also go a long way.