Reversionary Interest

In one sentence

The right to reclaim property when someone else's temporary interest ends.

Plain English

A Reversionary Interest is the right to get property back after someone else's temporary interest in it expires. Unlike a remainder interest (which goes to a third party), a reversionary interest means the property comes back to the original owner or their estate. If you give someone a life estate in your house and don't specify who gets it after they die, it automatically reverts back to you or your heirs.

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Example

A landowner leases a farm to a tenant for 10 years. The landowner has a reversionary interest because the farm will automatically come back to them when the 10-year lease ends.

Used in a sentence

“The property owner retained a reversionary interest, ensuring the land would return to her estate once the life tenant passed away.”

Related terms

Life Estate

The right to use and enjoy property during someone's lifetime only.

Remainder Interest

The right to receive property after someone else's temporary interest ends.

Fee Simple

Complete ownership of property with no restrictions or time limits.

Testamentary Capacity

The legal and mental ability required to make a valid will or trust.

Intestate Succession

The legal process of distributing a deceased person's property when they leave no valid will.

Trust Instrument

The legal document that creates a trust and outlines how assets will be managed and distributed.

Probate

The court process of validating a will and distributing a deceased person's estate.

Elective Share

A surviving spouse's right to claim a portion of the deceased spouse's estate despite the will.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.