Property Ownership
A Connecticut deed conveys property 'to the First Baptist Church and its successors, but only so long as the property is used as a place of worship.' If the church sells the building to a restaurant, what happens?
ANothing; the deed restriction is unenforceable after 40 years
BThe property automatically reverts to the grantor or grantor's heirs when the condition is violated (fee simple determinable—automatic forfeiture)✓ Correct
CThe church must pay a penalty but retains the property
DThe grantor's heirs have 10 years to challenge the sale
Explanation
A fee simple determinable is a present freehold estate that automatically terminates upon a specified event (here, cessation of use as a place of worship). The grantor retains a possibility of reverter, and upon violation of the condition, title automatically reverts to the grantor or heirs without any legal action.
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