Property OwnershipEstates

Freehold Estate

A freehold estate represents ownership of real property with an indefinite duration.

Understanding Freehold Estate

Freehold estates are characterized by ownership rights, meaning the holder has the right to possess and use the property for an unspecified length of time. This contrasts with leasehold estates, where the holder has the right to possess but not own the property for a defined period. Freehold estates are further classified into different types based on the extent and limitations of ownership rights.

Real-World Example

Owning a house outright, where you have the right to live there indefinitely, and pass it on to your heirs, is an example of a freehold estate.

Exam Tips

Remember 'free' in 'freehold' implies freedom and ownership, not renting. Focus on the indefinite duration as a key characteristic.

Related Terms

Fee Simple AbsoluteFee Simple DefeasibleLife Estate

Practice Questions

Related Concepts

A life estate is a freehold estate that grants ownership rights for the duration of someone's life.

A leasehold estate grants the right to possess and use property for a defined period of time, without conferring ownership.

The bundle of rights describes the rights associated with property ownership, allowing owners to use, control, enjoy, exclude others from, and dispose of the property.

Real property is immovable land and anything permanently attached to it, while personal property (also called chattels) is movable.

A freehold estate conveys ownership rights, while a leasehold estate grants the right to possess and use property for a specific period without ownership.

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