NCEES Principles and Practice of Surveying Practice Exam

What is a condition that must exist for a defeasible fee simple estate to continue?

1. Indefinite time period

2. Satisfaction of specific requirements

3. Inheritable without restrictions

4. Always transferable

The correct answer is: Satisfaction of specific requirements

A defeasible fee simple estate is a type of property ownership that comes with certain conditions or limitations. For this type of estate to continue, specific requirements must be satisfied. If the conditions outlined in the deed or grant are not met, the property could revert back to the original grantor or another specified party. For example, a common form of a defeasible fee simple is a fee simple subject to a condition subsequent, where the ownership can be terminated if a certain condition occurs. Thus, the satisfaction of these specific requirements is essential for the estate to remain valid and in force. This characteristic underscores the intricacies of property law related to defeasible estates, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the conditions attached to the property ownership.