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building a fence

Fence Placement and Adverse Possession

In working buying a home with an existing fence, or buying a fence, the need for a good boundary survey can not be overstated.   

In the legal profession, there's a saying: "Good fences, good neighbors make; bad fences, bad neighbors make."  

My education in this area came from a real estate transaction years ago where I was representing an attorney.  I had experiences with fences extending over the property line, but this fence was 4' inside the property line.   Surely there could be no problem with that!   But there was.   My client described 'adverse possession' and started to send me page after page of case law regarding the subject.   

What I learned then was that if a fence is 10 years old and it was improperly placed inside the property lines, such that the neighbor was performing maintenance on a section of property, that the neighbor had the right to make a claim for that section of land.  This legal term was referred to squatters rights, or adverse possession.  In order to validate the claim, one would have to seek counsel, file a suit to quiet title.   

To prevent this from happening, particularly if a person is just buying a home where the risk of this is happening, legal assistance is important.   Sometimes the counsel from the title company can assist in preparing quit claim deeds to the neighbors so that their apparent right is mitigated.   

From our point of view, the important thing is to get a survey, so that this isn't something that blindsides you later!

Compton Heights Homes for Sale

$1,125,000
6 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 26038742 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Step into this extraordinary Dutch Renaissance Revival masterpiece designed by renowned architect Theodore C. Link for Louisa Anheuser of the Anheuser-Busch dynasty. Offering over 5000 square feet of creatively renovated and restored living space, this is a rare testament to opulent 19th-century craftsmanship in the prestigious Compton Heights community of St. Louis. The enticing circular sidewalk & porte-cochere will draw you into one of the most architecturally significant homes in a neighborhood of architectural masterpieces, with a welcoming covered porch beneath a striking crow-stepped gable roof and oriel window above Romanesque entryway arches. Greeted by remarkable original millwork, intricate wood carvings, and exquisite masonry craftsmanship, you will find the grand fireplace commanding your attention, flanked by breathtaking art-glass windows bearing the iconic Anheuser-Busch insignia. Modern living meets historic grandeur with a well-designed kitchen featuring granite-topped custom cabinetry, breakfast & coffee bars, a butler's pantry, and premier appliances including a Wolf commercial stove, spacious dining and living rooms, and a sun-drenched solarium. Ascend the sweeping staircase where original stained glass filters light into a kaleidoscope of color ~ a daily reminder of the remarkable family who once called this their home. The second and third levels feature a peaceful primary bedroom suite & renovated bath, spacious bedrooms, two additional full baths, ample closet space, and plenty of room for everyone. This estate extends beyond the main residence, offering a handsome carriage house ~ once home to Clydesdales, two large workshops, a three-bay garage, and fully appointed guest quarters ~ truly a magnificently functional compound! Not just a house, this is a piece of St. Louis history waiting for its next great chapter as you make this your own place to call home! Note: two home offices are not depicted in photos ~ one each on the first and second floor. If you are not familiar with Compton Heights, this sought-after community is bustling with neighbor-centric activities year-round, from a festive Easter Parade and egg hunt on the shady neighborhood park grounds to neighborly summer patio gatherings, movie nights in the meadow adjacent to the community garden, Halloween festivities like no other, a holiday caroling dine-around, and impromptu neighborhood gatherings! Just minutes from major medical centers ~ SLU, BJC, Siteman, and Children's Hospital, and Washington University, Tower Grove and Forest Park, services, and restaurants.

3131 Russell Blvd, St Louis
$999,000
26024036 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Thoughtfully repositioned, the $100,000 price improvement offers room to personalize and opportunity to prosper! Perfectly positioned on one of the city’s largest private lots, overlooking the historic Compton Hill Reservoir, this three-story residence offers rare seclusion with the best of St. Louis just moments away. The main level showcases gleaming restored hardwood floors, elegant crown molding, and two stately fireplaces that set a distinguished tone upon entry. Nearly every room retains its original pocket doors, beautifully preserved for timeless character. Of the eight bedrooms, six are spacious suites with updated, oversized baths. A massive second-floor laundry and additional mudroom ensure effortless convenience. The handcrafted staircase leads to a fully reimagined third floor, featuring three bedrooms, two baths, and a full eat-in kitchen—an ideal private apartment or short-term rental opportunity. With newer systems, newer windows, and extensive updates throughout, this remarkable home blends historic charm with modern versatility, offering endless possibilities.

3500 Russell Blvd, St Louis
$999,000
8 Beds ⋅ 9 Baths ⋅ 25074947 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Thoughtfully repositioned, the $100,000 price improvement offers room to personalize and opportunity to prosper! Perfectly positioned on one of the city’s largest private lots, overlooking the historic Compton Hill Reservoir, this three-story residence offers rare seclusion with the best of St. Louis just moments away. The main level showcases gleaming restored hardwood floors, elegant crown molding, and two stately fireplaces that set a distinguished tone upon entry. Nearly every room retains its original pocket doors, beautifully preserved for timeless character. Of the eight bedrooms, six are spacious suites with updated, oversized baths. A massive second-floor laundry and additional mudroom ensure effortless convenience. The handcrafted staircase leads to a fully reimagined third floor, featuring three bedrooms, two baths, and a full eat-in kitchen—an ideal private apartment or short-term rental opportunity. With newer systems, newer windows, and extensive updates throughout, this remarkable home blends historic charm with modern versatility, offering endless possibilities.

3500 Russell Blvd, St Louis
$645,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 26058039 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Built for the Plass family in the late 1890s, 3248 Copelin Avenue stands along the Compton Heights street once known as “Millionaires’ Row.” The Victorian residence retains an exceptional collection of original details, including hardwood floors, pocket doors, etched-glass windows and transoms, restored brass hardware, six tile fireplaces, and much of its original lighting. The foyer features decorative hand-painted walls, a treatment that continues into the living room and along the stairwell. Original pocket doors connect the living and dining rooms, while the dining room has its own fireplace and a curved bay of windows. The freshly painted kitchen opens directly to the rear patio, and a marble-clad powder room completes the main level. A striking curved bay of original stained glass illuminates the grand staircase. Above, a ceiling mural by local artist Mark Sova draws on historic Bradbury & Bradbury designs. The second floor offers three bedrooms, a full bath, and a moody den decorated with hand-painted chinoiserie. Spanning the entire third floor, the spacious, light-filled primary suite includes an expansive walk-through closet and a bath with heated floors and a steam shower. Set on an impressive corner lot, the property also offers a fenced yard, an inviting garden sitting area, and an oversized two-car garage. This remarkable home pairs its preserved Victorian character with thoughtfully incorporated modern comforts.

3248 Copelin Ave, St Louis
$396,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 26034597 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
Don't miss this gem with classic curb appeal in the Historic Compton Heights neighborhood. This beautifully remodeled 3-bed, 2.5-bath, 2-story home checks every box. The fireplace is flanked with built-in bookcases and stained glass windows. Historic millwork, crown molding, and stylish lighting fixtures bring warmth and character to the living and dining rooms. French doors in the dining room add character and allow in an abundance of natural light. The dining room is open to kitchen and the center island has seating. The kitchen has been thoughtfully updated and features 42" white cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless appliances. Convenient powder room completes level. Upstairs, the primary suite offers a modern bath, walk-in closet + sitting room that overlooks the backyard. Two more ample bedrooms are served by another full bath. The home has seen meaningful updates throughout — including the water line and plumbing, HVAC, majority of windows, roof, and bedroom carpet — giving buyers the confidence of a well-maintained property.  The unfinished walk-out basement offers serious storage and unlimited potential. A covered back porch leads to the fenced yard and the 1-car detached garage. The dead-end street setting, and proximity to Tower Grove Park, Reservoir Park, and the Community Garden make this location as livable as the home itself. Easy access to highways 44 & 55 rounds it all out.

3146 Geyer Ave, St Louis
$365,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 26049494 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE UNDER CONTRACT Status
Welcome to 1923 S. Compton in the sought after Compton Heights neighborhood! You will love this beautifully preserved historic home, where classic architectural details meet the comfort of modern living. This two bedroom, 1.5 bath home boasts tall ceilings, original plank hardwood flooring & staircase, exposed brick, custom lighting, millwork and crown molding. Main floor has a spacious living room with 11 ft ceilings, gorgeous bay window and decorative fireplace. Eat-in kitchen has granite countertops, custom cabinetry and stainless steel appliances that leads to the light filled dining room. French doors off the dining room leads to private deck. Half bath off of kitchen. Gorgeous original staircase leads to the second floor that has 10 ft ceilings. Spacious primary bedroom w/ fireplace and additional bedroom with private second story balcony, perfect for morning coffee! Full bath with jet tub and separate shower completes the second floor. Downstairs you will find the laundry area and lots of storage space. Outside you will find a deck- perfect for entertaining, well manicured lawn and two car garage. Great location! Close to restaurants, shopping, Tower Grove Park, Botanical Gardens, Lafayette Square

1923 S Compton Ave, St Louis
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