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Real Property LawLand Registration SystemsHARD

In a jurisdiction using the Torrens system, a property is sold to a bona fide purchaser for value, but it is later discovered that the vendor's title was obtained through forgery. What is the purchaser's position?

Correct Answer

B) The purchaser's title is protected and they may retain the property

Under the Torrens system's indefeasibility principle, a bona fide purchaser for value who registers their interest is generally protected even if the vendor's title was defective due to forgery. The true owner's remedy is typically compensation from the assurance fund rather than recovery of the land.

Answer Options
A
The purchaser loses the property and must seek compensation from the vendor
B
The purchaser's title is protected and they may retain the property
C
The property reverts to the original owner before the forgery
D
The transaction is void and the purchaser must return the property

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Option B is correct because the Torrens system's indefeasibility principle protects bona fide purchasers for value who register their interest. Under provincial Land Titles Acts, once a purchaser registers their title in good faith and for valuable consideration, their ownership is guaranteed by the government, even if the vendor's title was obtained through forgery. The true owner's remedy is compensation from the assurance fund, not recovery of the property itself.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

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Key Terms

Torrens systemindefeasibilitybona fide purchaserassurance fundLand Titles Act
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