Freehold

What is a freehold? 

Freehold is the most absolute form of property ownership compared to other titles. This means the owners can sell it, lease it, or use it as collateral for a loan, without many restrictions. This is because they own 100% of the land. 

What’s the difference between freehold and leasehold?

Freehold ownership means you own the property and the land it sits on outright with no time limit. 

Leasehold ownership means you have the right to use the property for a set period, typically decades, but you don't own the land outright. You usually pay rent to the landowner, and when the lease expires, ownership returns to the landowner unless the lease is renewed. 

Are there any restrictions on freehold ownership? 

Yes, while freehold ownership provides a lot of freedom, there can still be some restrictions imposed by local planning and environmental legislation. These restrictions may include zoning regulations, building codes, environmental protection laws, and heritage preservation requirements. 

For example, you may need approval for certain types of development or renovations, especially if they affect the external appearance of the property or its impact on the surrounding environment.