Kovats Real Estate School Practice Test

Which of the following is NOT a freehold estate?

1. A life estate

2. A fee simple estate

3. A leasehold estate

4. An estate in fee tail

The correct answer is: A leasehold estate

A leasehold estate is not a freehold estate because it represents a tenant's right to occupy and use property for a set period, as defined by the lease agreement, rather than ownership of the property itself. In contrast, freehold estates involve an ownership interest in real property that is indefinite in duration. A life estate, for instance, grants possession until the death of a specified individual; a fee simple estate provides complete ownership without limitations; and an estate in fee tail restricts inheritance to particular descendants. Therefore, leasehold estates are distinct as they are temporary and do not confer ownership of the property, making them the correct answer in identifying which option is not a freehold estate.