Which of the following describes the rights of a surviving spouse concerning homestead property?

The correct answer reflects the legal concept of a surviving spouse's rights in relation to homestead property. In many jurisdictions, when one spouse dies, the surviving spouse typically retains a conditional life estate in the homestead property. This means that the surviving spouse has the right to continue living in the home for the rest of their life, but this right is contingent upon certain conditions, such as not conveying the property or allowing it to go to waste.

A life estate allows the surviving spouse to use the property and benefit from it during their lifetime, ensuring they have a place to reside and maintain stability in their living situation after the loss of their partner. Upon the death of the surviving spouse, the property would generally pass on to the heirs or designate beneficiaries, according to the terms of the deceased spouse's will or state intestacy laws if no will exists.

The other choices do not accurately represent the rights of a surviving spouse concerning homestead property. For example, losing all rights or being compelled to sell or relocate immediately does not align with the typical legal protections afforded to a surviving spouse regarding homestead rights.