Which of the following is essential in the metes and bounds system?

In the metes and bounds system of land description, reference points are essential for accurately delineating the boundaries of a property. This system relies on specific geographic features, landmarks, and measurements to define the perimeter of a parcel of land. Reference points, often marked by natural or man-made markers such as trees, rivers, or stakes, provide a clear indication of where boundaries start and end, making it critical for property identification.

The metes and bounds system is particularly useful in areas where other methods of land description, like lot and block or rectangular surveys, may not apply. By using reference points, surveyors can ensure that property lines are consistently established and understood, avoiding disputes over land ownership.

In this context, architectural design, property surveys, and tax assessments do not play a primary role in the fundamental operation of the metes and bounds system, although they may be relevant to aspects of real estate and property management more broadly. However, without reference points, the integrity and clarity of the metes and bounds descriptions would be compromised.