What is a reversionary interest?

A reversionary interest refers to the scenario where ownership of a property returns to the original owner after the termination of a life estate. In the context of property law, a life estate allows one party to use and benefit from the property during their lifetime; however, upon their death, the property does not pass to their heirs or beneficiaries but instead reverts to the original owner or their heirs. This legal arrangement is designed to give the life tenant rights to the property for their life, while establishing that ownership will transition back to the grantor once the life interest concludes. Therefore, this concept is essential for understanding how property rights can change over time based on life events.

The other options highlight other aspects of property rights but do not accurately represent the definition of reversionary interest. For instance, the affirmation of lifetime interest (option one) describes a life estate but not the reversionary aspect. The ability for the life tenant to sell their interest (option three) speaks to the rights of a life tenant but does not capture the return of ownership inherent to reversion. Lastly, a claim from a current tenant (option four) discusses tenant rights in a leasing context rather than reversionary interests in property ownership. Thus, the correct answer aligns