A fee simple absolute, sometimes described in examination terminology as an indefeasible fee, is the most complete form of private real-property ownership listed, making D correct. It has potentially unlimited duration and is not automatically terminated by a special condition built into the grant. The owner may generally possess, use, transfer, mortgage, or devise the property subject to government powers, private restrictions, liens, and applicable law.
A fee simple defeasible is also a fee estate, but its continuation is subject to a condition or limitation. If the stated condition occurs, the estate may terminate automatically or become subject to a right of entry depending on the particular defeasible-fee form.
An estate pur autre vie is a life estate measured by the lifetime of someone other than the owner of the life estate. It necessarily has limited duration. An estate for years is a leasehold/non-freehold estate whose term is fixed by agreement.
Massachusetts property and tax materials recognize fee simple, life estates, easements, and leasehold interests as distinct interests in real property.
Study Guide Reference: Property Ownership — freehold estates, fee simple, defeasible estates and life estates.
