Vesting, or How to Take Title
Real estate purchasers can take ownership in various forms:
Tenants by the Entireties (Married Couples Only)
Ownership in real estate by a married couple under the assumption that the couple is “one person” for legal purposes.
With this vesting, title is transferred in its entirety to the surviving partner should one of them pass away.
Sole Owner
Ownership in real estate by an individual or entity legally capable of holding title.
The most common sole ownership vestings are properties held by single individuals, or married individuals who hold property separately apart from their spouses.
Joint Tenants with Right of Survivorship
Ownership in real estate held by two or more individuals jointly, with equal rights to enjoy the property during their lives.
If one of the individuals passes away, his or her rights of ownership pass to the surviving tenant(s) through a legal relationship known as a right of survivorship. Tenants can enter a joint tenancy at the same time.
Tenants In Common
Ownership in real estate wherein each owner (2 or more individuals) has the right to their interest (percentage) of the property, but to their interest only.
For example, if you purchase a cabin with a business partner, and you contribute 70% and he contributes 30%, you own 70% of the property. If you were to pass away, your 70% passes to YOUR heirs, not to your partner or their heirs.