What are the four unities needed to create a joint tenancy?

The four unities required to establish a joint tenancy are unity of title, time, interest, and possession.

Unity of title means that all tenants hold the property under the same legal document, which conveys the title to them jointly. Unity of time identifies that all parties must acquire their interest in the property at the same moment, ensuring that their rights to the property are equal from the very start. Unity of interest means that each joint tenant holds an equal share in the property, contributing to the concept that each has an undivided interest. Lastly, unity of possession stipulates that all joint tenants have equal rights to possess and use the entire property.

When all four unities are present, it creates a joint tenancy, allowing for rights of survivorship and specific legal distinctions compared to other forms of ownership, such as tenancy in common. Understanding these unities is vital for anyone studying property law and essential for real estate practice.