Which statement about a life estate is true?

Which statement about a life estate is true?

• A. False
• B. Only under limited circumstances
• C. True
• D. Only if a will is involved

Answer: (C)

A life estate is a real property interest that lasts for the life of a person (the measuring life). It is a present, usable ownership right for that duration, but it automatically ends when the life tenant dies or the measuring life ends, at which point the property passes to a remainderman or reverts to the grantor. This can be created by either a deed or a will, not only by a will. The life tenant may use and enjoy the property during the life of the measuring person, but they must preserve its value and cannot commit waste. Because a life estate is a recognized form of property interest with these characteristics, the statement is true. The other options misstate the typical creation or scope of a life estate.

A life estate is a real property interest that lasts for the life of a person (the measuring life). It is a present, usable ownership right for that duration, but it automatically ends when the life tenant dies or the measuring life ends, at which point the property passes to a remainderman or reverts to the grantor. This can be created by either a deed or a will, not only by a will. The life tenant may use and enjoy the property during the life of the measuring person, but they must preserve its value and cannot commit waste. Because a life estate is a recognized form of property interest with these characteristics, the statement is true. The other options misstate the typical creation or scope of a life estate.