What is the key characteristic of "tenancy in common" ownership?

In "tenancy in common" ownership, each owner holds an undivided interest in the property, meaning that ownership is not physically divided into separate parts but rather represents a share of the entire property. Each co-owner has the right to use and occupy the whole property, regardless of their ownership proportion. This characteristic allows each owner to sell or transfer their share independently of the other owners, making it a flexible form of ownership.

The idea of undivided interest is crucial because it promotes shared use and responsibilities among the owners, while also allowing for unique ownership percentages. Each owner's share may be equal or unequal, and they can dictate how their respective interests are handled, such as through sale or inheritance. This form of co-ownership is common in real estate, especially among investors who wish to pool resources while still maintaining some level of personal autonomy regarding their investments.