Final answer:
The main difference is that in a fee simple determinable estate, the reversion of ownership is automatic upon the occurrence of a specific condition, whereas in a fee simple condition subsequent estate, the reversion is not automatic and requires the grantor to take legal action to reclaim the property upon a breach of condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between a fee simple determinable estate and a fee simple condition subsequent estate lies in how the reversion of ownership occurs when certain conditions are met or violated. In a fee simple determinable estate, the reversion of ownership to the grantor is automatic upon the occurrence of a specific event or condition. It typically involves language such as 'so long as,' 'while,' or 'during,' which indicate that the estate will continue until the specified condition is no longer met. If that condition is violated, the estate automatically terminates and reverts to the grantor without the need for any legal action.
Conversely, in a fee simple condition subsequent estate, the grantor retains the right to repossess the property if a condition is breached, but this reversion is not automatic. The estate includes a right of reentry or power of termination, and the grantor must take affirmative action to reclaim the property, typically through legal proceedings. The estate is created with language like 'but if' or 'provided that,' indicating the estate exists unless the grantor chooses to enforce the condition and reclaim the property.
Hence, the correct answer is that c. Reversion of ownership is automatic in the determinable estate.