Sarah and David purchased a waterfront property in Kelowna, British Columbia, as joint tenants in 2018. In 2023, David passed away. David's will explicitly stated that his share of the Kelowna property should go to his son, Michael. Which of the following statements is true regarding the ownership of the property?

Question: Sarah and David purchased a waterfront property in Kelowna, British Columbia, as joint tenants in 2018. In 2023, David passed away. David's will explicitly stated that his share of the Kelowna property should go to his son, Michael. Which of the following statements is true regarding the ownership of the property?

Answer options:

• Michael inherits David's half-share of the property, creating a tenancy in common with Sarah. ✅ Sarah automatically becomes the sole owner of the entire property.
• The property must be sold, and the proceeds divided equally between Sarah and Michael.
• Sarah maintains her half-share, and the remaining half becomes part of David's estate to be distributed according to his will.

Correct answer: Sarah automatically becomes the sole owner of the entire property.

Explanation: In a joint tenancy, the right of survivorship dictates that upon the death of one joint tenant, their interest automatically passes to the surviving joint tenant(s), regardless of any will. This is a key characteristic distinguishing joint tenancy from tenancy in common.