If a co-owner of a property dies intestate, how does the surviving owner retain ownership?

When a co-owner of a property dies intestate, which means they did not leave a will, the concept of survivorship comes into play if the property is held as joint tenants with the right of survivorship. In such cases, the deceased owner’s interest in the property automatically transfers to the surviving co-owner. This legal principle allows the remaining owner to retain full ownership of the property without the need for probate or any additional legal proceedings.

Survivorship is a critical aspect of joint tenancy, distinct from other forms of ownership like tenancy in common, where the deceased’s share would be passed according to their will or state succession laws. Survivorship ensures a seamless transfer of ownership, preserving the continuity of ownership and avoiding potential disputes that could arise if the property were to be divided among heirs.

Given this context, the other options do not apply to the situation regarding property ownership after the death of a co-owner. Adverse possession refers to a situation where an individual might claim ownership of land under certain conditions despite not holding title. A reversionary interest pertains to a future interest in a property that is returned to the original owner upon expiration of a certain event, which is not relevant here. Foreclosure involves the legal process of recovering the balance of