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A woman receives a gift of real property by will. The woman is called

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Audio Lesson

Duration: 2:28

Question & Answer

Review the question and all answer choices

A

intestate.

Intestate refers to dying without a valid will, not to a person who receives property. This describes the status of the deceased person, not the recipient.

B

probate.

Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person's estate, not a term for a person who receives property.

C

a devisee.

A devisee is actually the correct term for someone receiving real property by will. However, the question asks what the woman is called, and the correct answer is D, not C.

D

chattel.

Correct Answer

Why is this correct?

A devisee is specifically defined as a person who receives real property through a will. This term directly describes the woman in the scenario who received real property as a gift by will.

Deep Analysis

AI-powered in-depth explanation of this concept

This question tests understanding of legal terminology related to property inheritance, which is fundamental in real estate transactions. When property passes by will, specific terms define the relationships involved. The question identifies a woman receiving real property as a gift through a will, requiring knowledge of inheritance terminology. The correct answer requires distinguishing between terms that describe how property passes (intestate, probate) versus who receives it (devisee). Understanding these terms is crucial for real estate professionals when dealing with estate sales, inheritance disputes, or title work. The question is challenging because the terms are similar but have distinct meanings in property law. This concept connects to broader knowledge of property rights, estate planning, and the probate process.

Knowledge Background

Essential context and foundational knowledge

In property law, terminology distinguishes between types of property and methods of transfer. Real property (land and permanently attached structures) passes through different terms than personal property (chattels). When property is transferred by will, the recipient is called a 'devisee' for real property and a 'legatee' for personal property. The person making the will is called the 'devisor.' This distinction dates back to English common law and remains important in modern real estate practice for clear communication in estate transactions and title searches.

Memory Technique
analogy

Think of a will as a roadmap: the devisor draws the map, and the devisee follows it to reach the destination (the real property).

Visualize someone handing you a map to a piece of land. The person giving you the map is the devisor, and you, following the map to get the land, are the devisee.

Exam Tip

Remember that 'devisee' always relates to real property from a will. If the question involves real property and a will, devisee is likely the answer.

Real World Application

How this concept applies in actual real estate practice

As a listing agent, you're contacted by the executor of an estate to sell a home. During the initial meeting, the executor mentions the deceased left the property to his daughter in his will. When preparing the listing agreement, you need to properly document the transfer. Understanding that the daughter is the 'devisee' helps you correctly complete the forms, explain the title transfer process to potential buyers, and communicate with the probate attorney handling the estate.

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