What is a life estate pur autre vie?

A life estate pur autre vie is defined as an estate that is measured by the life of another person, rather than the life of the individual who holds the estate. This means that the duration of the life estate depends on the life of a third party, and when that person passes away, the life estate terminates, reverting the property to the original grantor or their heirs.

Understanding this concept is important in real estate as it influences property rights and interests. For example, if someone holds a life estate pur autre vie based on the life of a friend or family member, they can use and enjoy the property during that person’s lifetime. However, once that individual dies, the rights to the property cease for the holder of the life estate.

The other options describe different types of estates that do not accurately reflect the nature of a life estate pur autre vie. An estate measured by the life of the grantee would refer to a standard life estate, while an estate that is automatically transferable upon death pertains more to joint tenancy or other property interests with right of survivorship. An estate exempt from taxation does not relate directly to the duration or nature of the life estate.