Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
“My neighbor wants an easement on my property for his proposed sewer line. We will be selling our property within the next nine months. Are there any legal, physical or real estate sales issues if we grant the easement? What is the value of this easement?”Well, obviously if you do grant the easement you will need to disclose that fact to any prospective buyers. A properly written sewer easement (I strongly recommend you use an attorney for this) should not overly burden your property, though it will prevent, for example, building something which would prevent access to the sewer line for repairs. Other than leaving reasonable access, a sewer easement should not have an impact on your use of the property.
Question: Unfortunately, I can’t tell you how much an easement is worth, since it depends on too many factors: Where on the property is the easement, and how much area is covered? What kind of development, if any, will be prevented because of the easement? What are the provisions for maintenance and repairs? Even knowing all the facts, I have seen easements sold for nothing and for tens of thousands of dollars, depending on how much it is worth to the particular property owners.
