Maine Real Estate License Practice Exam

Which type of ownership is recognized in Maine?

1. Joint fee simple

2. Fee Simple Absolute

3. Estate for Years

4. Free Estate

The correct answer is: Fee Simple Absolute

In Maine, the type of ownership that is recognized is Fee Simple Absolute. This form of ownership is the most complete interest one can have in real property and includes the right to use, sell, lease, or give away the property. It is not limited by any other interests and is of indefinite duration. Fee Simple Absolute conveys full rights to the property owner, providing total control over the land and any structures on it, subject only to the law and local zoning ordinances. Owners of a Fee Simple Absolute have the highest level of ownership and no other party has any claim to their interest unless they voluntarily choose to sell or transfer it. Other types of ownership mentioned, like Joint Fee Simple, Estate for Years, and Free Estate, do not represent the same level of ownership or legal recognition in the state. For instance, Joint Fee Simple is not a standard term used in real estate law, while Estate for Years pertains to leases with a fixed duration, and Free Estate may not be commonly recognized as a defined type of ownership in Maine real property law.