Property Ownership

In New York, which of the following BEST describes the transfer of title by descent (intestate succession)?

AProperty transfers by deed to the surviving spouse only
BProperty passes to heirs according to New York's intestacy laws (EPTL) when the owner dies without a valid will✓ Correct
CProperty always passes to the state if there is no will
DProperty is sold at auction to pay off the decedent's debts

Explanation

When a New York property owner dies without a valid will (intestate), title passes according to the New York Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) intestate succession provisions. The EPTL establishes the order: surviving spouse and children first, then parents, siblings, and other relatives in specified order.

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