What is a key feature of a leasehold estate?

A leasehold estate is characterized primarily by its temporary nature and the restrictions defined within the lease agreement between the lessor (landlord) and the lessee (tenant). Unlike fee simple ownership, which grants the owner full rights to the property indefinitely, a leasehold estate indicates that the tenant has rights to use and occupy the property for a specific period, as determined by the lease terms. The tenant does not own the land; rather, they hold a right to use the property, which is bound by the duration and stipulations of the lease agreement.

This arrangement means that while a leasehold can grant possession and certain use rights, these rights are not permanent. At the end of the lease term, possession reverts to the landlord. This definition is critical in real estate law and practice since it affects both the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords significantly.