What defines a freehold estate in real property?

A freehold estate in real property is characterized by ownership in land that encompasses both possession and indefinite ownership rights. This type of estate signifies that the owner has the right to use the property indefinitely, as opposed to a leasehold estate, which is typically temporary and subject to the terms of a lease.

With a freehold estate, the property owner holds the title to the land without a predetermined end date, allowing for full control and usage of the property. This could include the right to sell, transfer, or inherit the property, as well as the ability to modify or develop the land according to applicable laws. The indefinite nature of ownership makes freehold estates a central concept in real estate, providing stability and security for property owners.

In contrast, other definitions such as temporary ownership, conditional ownership, or shared ownership do not align with the characteristics of a freehold estate, as they imply limitations on rights, duration, or exclusive control over the property.