What type of real estate description outlines the property's boundaries using directions and distances?

The correct answer is the method known as metes and bounds. This approach to describing real estate uses a system of measurements, with specific directions and distances to define the boundaries of a parcel of land. It often starts at a designated point and describes the perimeter by detailing the directions (such as north, south, east, and west) and the distances to each corner or landmark. The metes and bounds system is quite flexible and can be used for irregularly shaped lots, making it particularly useful in areas where other systems, such as plat or lot/block descriptions, might be cumbersome or less precise.

In contrast, a plat description involves a detailed map that shows boundaries, easements, and other land characteristics, which does not rely on directional and distance measurements in the same way as metes and bounds. Lot and block descriptions are used primarily for subdivisions, referencing a recorded plat to define property limits, while the government survey system divides land into townships and ranges but does not detail the specific boundaries of individual parcels in terms of directions and distances. Thus, metes and bounds remains the most direct answer to the question regarding boundary descriptions based on specific metrics.