Common Joe 'n Jane Real Estate Wiki

Real estate exam prep made easy! Dive into our wiki for key concepts and study materials tailored for success in your exams.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
<--Back to Wiki Home
Bite sized definition logo.

Define Tenancy in Severalty in Real Estate

Tenancy in Severalty: 

Tenancy in Severalty is when a property is owned by just one person or entity, with no co-owners involved. The single owner has complete control over the property and can sell, rent, or use it as they wish, without needing approval from others.

Example: 

For example, imagine that Sarah buys a house on her own, without any partners or co-owners. She has complete control over the property and can make all decisions about its use, maintenance, and sale.

Illustration of a diver exploring the depths of the ocean. This image represents in-depth further learning in various real estate dictionary and glossary terms on our website.
"A Deep Dive for Real Estate Agents"

Here are a few more points about Tenancy in Severalty that might be helpful for your real estate agent exam:

Full responsibility: Since the property is owned by one person or entity, they are responsible for all aspects of property management, including maintenance, taxes, and any financial obligations tied to the property.

Easier decision-making: Without co-owners to consult, the decision-making process in Tenancy in Severalty is typically more straightforward, as the owner can make decisions about the property without seeking agreement from others.

Transfer of ownership: The owner of a property held in Tenancy in Severalty can easily transfer ownership by selling the property or passing it on through a will or trust.

Regarding the term "severalty," it can indeed be a bit confusing. The word comes from the Middle English word "severalte," which means "separateness" or "a state of being separate." In this context, it refers to the property being owned separately from any other person or entity. So, although it may sound like it refers to multiple owners, it actually means the complete opposite: single, separate ownership.

Keep in mind that local laws and practices related to Tenancy in Severalty can vary by jurisdiction, so it's essential to familiarize yourself with them when working in the real estate field.
Illustration of Dumb Ox mascot.

"Wit & Whimsy with the Dumb Ox: Unlocking Knowledge with Rhyme:"

In a world of real estate, where ownership's key,
Tenancy in Severalty is simple to see.
Just one person owns, with no others around,
The property's decisions are theirs, safe and sound.

Sarah buys a house, with no partners in sight,
She controls all the choices, day and night.
With Tenancy in Severalty, there's no need to share,
Solo ownership, in this world, it's quite fair!

Invest in Your Future.

Buy Access Now!