Freehold

A freehold is a type of property ownership where the holder has absolute and permanent ownership of the land and any structures on it, subject only to the laws of the land. This includes the right to possess, use, and dispose of the property as they see fit, within legal boundaries. It is a fundamental concept in property law, offering the greatest degree of ownership compared to other forms such as leasehold. The duration of ownership under a freehold is typically indefinite, passing down to heirs or being transferred through sale. Essentially, it represents the strongest possible claim of land ownership and offers a high degree of control over the property. A freehold can be a house, an apartment or any type of property.

Freehold meaning with examples

• After decades of renting, the couple finally purchased the house, securing the freehold. They were thrilled to have complete control over renovations and property usage, building their dream home. They now had the freedom to alter the property without needing their landlord's permission.
• The city's historical society advocated for acquiring the freehold of the old town square. They wanted to ensure its preservation for future generations, preventing any unwanted development or demolition that could affect their history.
• Investing in a freehold property in the countryside has provided the family with stability and a tangible asset. They use the land for their farm and grow crops. They can enjoy a peace of mind knowing they fully own the land and can pass it on to their children.
• She inherited the freehold of the family estate from her parents. She was excited but also felt a sense of responsibility for maintaining it for future generations and all of the responsibilities that came with it. She knew all of the ins and outs of the estate.
• The developer sought to purchase the freehold of several adjacent plots to create a large commercial complex. This would give them control over the entire site, allowing for seamless construction and development. They could not make any headway until they owned the land.