Minnesota State Real Estate Practice Test

Which requirement for joint tenancy has been abolished under Minnesota statutes?

1. Unity of title

2. Unity of interest

3. Unity of time

4. Unity of possession

The correct answer is: Unity of time

In Minnesota, the requirement for joint tenancy that has been abolished is the unity of time. Traditionally, for a joint tenancy to be formed, all co-owners had to take possession of the property simultaneously, meaning they must acquire their interests at the same time. However, Minnesota law has evolved to allow for more flexibility in forming joint tenancies. This change means that individuals can now create a joint tenancy even if their interests are acquired at different times. As long as the other unities—unity of title (having the same deed), unity of interest (having equal shares), and unity of possession (having equal rights to occupy the property)—are present, the joint tenancy can be validly established. This adjustment in the law reflects a more modern approach, accommodating various forms of ownership and making it easier for co-owners to collaborate in property management and cohabitation without the strict requirement of simultaneous acquisition.