Four Types of Property Ownership and the Transfer of Title

Little is more rewarding for a real estate agent than turning over the keys. You know that some new owners plan to live there for a lifetime and pass it on to their children, while others hope to build up enough equity to move on to something larger or at least establish that equity as the cornerstone of their estate. But what if an owner should die unexpectedly – or worse, without a will? How can owners assure that ownership of their home will be passed on as they wished?

The answer lies in how they hold title to the property. There may be slight variations on exactly how each ownership type works in different estates, but below is a general overview of the different ways to hold property.

• Sole Ownership – In this scenario, property is owned entirely by one person, who can do whatever he or she wishes with it without permission from another party. If the sole owner dies without a will, the property passes according to the state law where it is located. In some cases, the court that has jurisdiction will appoint an executor to oversee disposition of the estate.

• Joint Tenancy – As joint tenants, each person who has a share of ownership owns an equal share of the property. If one owner dies, that share passes automatically to the remaining owners.

• Tenants in Common – In this case, a property is owned by two or more people at the same time, but the proportionate interests and right to possess and enjoy the property need not be equal. The owners can sell their share of the property if they wish, and, upon death, the descendant’s interest passes to his/her heirs who then become new tenants in common with the surviving owners. (None of the tenants in common automatically receive the share of the descendant.)

• Community Property – In the nine states that recognize community property, including California, any property you acquire while married is considered community property, and is equally owned between you and your spouse. This becomes especially relevant in the event of divorce.

If there are detailed questions about ownership, you should consult a lawyer. However, it is a good idea to have a basic understanding of the different types of ownership.