What Is Freehold in Real Estate? Definition & Examples

Freehold refers to property ownership where an individual holds full rights to the land and any structures on it for an indefinite period. Unlike leasehold, freehold ownership does not expire and gives the owner complete control, subject only to local laws and zoning.

🏡 Types of Freehold Estates

  • Fee Simple Absolute: The highest form of ownership with full rights to sell, transfer, or pass through inheritance.
  • Fee Simple Defeasible: Ownership that may be revoked if certain conditions are violated.
  • Life Estate: Ownership lasting for the duration of a specified person's life, then transferring to another party.

Most U.S. homes sold today are fee simple, the most common form of freehold property.

💰 Why Freehold Matters in Real Estate

Freehold ownership is highly desirable because it grants unlimited duration and full control. Key advantages include:

  • Complete Ownership: You own both the building and the land outright.
  • No Expiration: Ownership does not end unless you sell the property.
  • Stronger Resale Value: Freehold homes generally sell for more than comparable leasehold homes.

📍 Why Freehold Matters for FSBO Sellers

Freehold ownership simplifies the selling process because the seller has full rights to the property without lease restrictions. When you list your freehold property through a Flat Fee MLS plan on Brokerless, your listing appears on major sites like Zillow and Realtor.com while you retain full selling control.