Which term refers to the automatic return of property ownership to the original owner under specific conditions?

The term that describes the automatic return of property ownership to the original owner under specific conditions is "fee simple determinable." This type of estate is characterized by a condition that, if violated, results in the property reverting back to the original grantor. In a fee simple determinable, the ownership is granted with a specific limitation or condition attached, such as the property being used for a particular purpose. If that condition is not met, the original owner can automatically reclaim the property without needing to take any legal action.

For example, if a grantor conveys land to a school as long as it is used for educational purposes, the school holds the property in fee simple determinable. If the school ceases to use the property for that purpose, the ownership automatically reverts to the grantor.

The other terms, such as fee simple estate, reversionary interest, and life estate, describe different types of property interests and do not incorporate the automatic reversion feature associated with the fee simple determinable. This key characteristic is what distinguishes it from other forms of property ownership.