Washington State Real Estate Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Preparation Guide

Adverse possession refers to the legal process through which an individual can acquire ownership of land that they do not hold title to, typically by openly using the property without the permission of the original owner for a specified period defined by law. This concept is based on the idea that if the rightful owner does not use or take action regarding their property, they effectively forfeit their claim to it. Requirements often include continuous and uninterrupted use, which must be open (meaning the use is visible and notorious), and without consent from the title holder.

The other choices do not encapsulate the legal definition of adverse possession. Buying land at auction is a legitimate method of acquiring property but has no relation to adverse possession as it involves a transaction. Acquiring title through a warranty deed is a standard method for transferring ownership and does not involve the elements of adverse possession. Possessing property through a legal contract would imply an agreement exists between parties, which contradicts the essence of adverse possession, where the possession is without permission.