What happens to properties when the owner dies without heirs?

When the owner of a property dies without any heirs, the concept of escheat applies. Escheat is a legal process where ownership of the property reverts to the state, as there are no direct heirs to inherit the property. This process ensures that the property does not remain in limbo and helps maintain the orderly transfer of property rights. The state becomes the new owner and can then decide how to manage or dispose of the property according to existing laws and regulations.

This principle serves an important purpose in property law by preventing property from becoming ownerless or abandoned, ultimately allowing the state to manage and utilize the land or property for public benefit or further sale.