A fee simple defeasible estate that requires the holder of the future interest to act promptly to terminate the present interest, in order for that interest to be terminated. Back to the Top

A fee simple subject to a condition subsequent is an estate conveyed "provided that," "on the condition that" or "if" it is used for a specific purpose. If it is no longer used for that purpose, it reverts to the original grantor or his heirs. This type of estate is much the same as a fee determinable, except that in a fee determinable conveyance the words are of duration while a fee condition subsequent refers strictly to a specific condition. In addition, unlike a fee determinable, when fee condition subsequent property is no longer used for its prescribed purpose, the original grantor (or heirs) must physically retake possession of the property within a reasonable period of time after the breach (i.e., the grantor must exercise his or her right of reentry). Any transaction involving a fee simple defeasible estate should be referred to an attorney for a professional opinion.

An estate in land where the owner's title in fee simple may be terminated by the former owner or her heir's upon the occurrence of a particular event. The termination must be carried out by the former owner and is not automatic upon the occurrence of the event.

Full title provided that there is compliance with a condition; e.g., "To A upon the condition that the property is used for school purposes."