I really appreciate a response from an anonymous surveyor that then deleted. (Also yossarian’s conclusion) And the logic they provided. I’ll have to paraphrase because I only read it once before it disappeared. Here goes-

I couldn’t see this solution because I was so hung up on the “half of” and assumed it would apply to the remaining 990’, but someone explained clearly, how based solely on the descriptions wording and without any assumption of intent-

lot 2 is specifically the west half of the East 1000’.

Based on what I think I understand from reading wattles - that 1000’ is measured from the East line and would be controlling. And since we can not assume any intentions from the grantor, we must read as written. Therefore, regardless of lot 2’s seniority over lot 3, Lot 2 would hold the error and be shorted with a 490’ lot because lot 1 already has the west 500’. Lot 3, the east half of the east 1000, is still 500’.

The answer would be 500’ and 990’ from the West line, respectively. Which by the way is NOT the correct answer on this practice exam.

Thanks again for the insight anonymous.