BC Real Estate Trading Services Course Estates and Interests in Land Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following represents the highest and most complete form of land ownership recognized in British Columbia, granting the owner rights to the land in perpetuity, subject only to Crown rights and registered encumbrances?

Accepted Answer

An estate in fee simple

Answer

A life estate

Answer

A leasehold estate

Answer

An easement in gross

Question 2

An elderly individual, Anya, transfers ownership of her home to her son, Ben, but includes a provision in the land title registration that she is to retain exclusive possession and use of the property until her death. After Anya passes away, Ben will have full control. What type of interest does Anya hold?

Accepted Answer

A life estate

Answer

A future interest in remainder

Answer

A fee simple estate

Answer

A leasehold interest for life

Question 3

A developer in Vancouver builds a condominium tower on land owned by a university. Buyers purchase units with the right to occupy them for 99 years. Which of the following BEST describes the interest held by the unit buyers?

Accepted Answer

A leasehold estate

Answer

Fee simple strata lot

Answer

Co-operative ownership

Answer

Air space parcel ownership

Question 4

In British Columbia, what is the legal principle where land reverts to the Crown if an owner dies intestate (without a will) and without any legal heirs?

Accepted Answer

Escheat

Answer

Expropriation

Answer

Torrens transfer

Answer

Foreclosure

Question 5

A property owner in Kelowna grants a registered easement to a neighbouring property. The easement allows the neighbour to use a portion of the owner's driveway to access their garage. If the owner sells their property, what is the status of the easement?

Accepted Answer

The easement 'runs with the land' and remains binding on the new owner.

Answer

The easement is automatically terminated upon the sale.

Answer

The new owner can choose to terminate the easement at their discretion.

Answer

The easement converts to a restrictive covenant.

Question 6

A developer creates a new subdivision in Surrey, BC, and places a charge on the title of each lot that prohibits owners from building any secondary suites or carriage homes. This type of charge, which limits the use of the land, is known as a:

Accepted Answer

Restrictive covenant

Answer

Statutory right of way

Answer

Zoning bylaw

Answer

Building scheme lien