What is a leasehold estate?

A leasehold estate refers to a temporary right to occupy and use a property under the terms of a lease agreement between a landlord and tenant. This type of estate provides the tenant with the right to use the property for a specified period while the ownership remains with the landlord. It is characterized by a defined duration, which could range from a few months to several years, at the end of which the tenant must vacate the premises unless the lease is renewed.

The concept of leasehold estate is crucial in real estate, as it distinguishes the rights of tenants from those of property owners. In contrast to permanent ownership of property, which indicates a fee simple ownership where the owner has complete control and indefinite rights over the property, a leasehold estate is inherently temporary and contingent upon the lease terms.

The other options represent different legal concepts in real estate. A permanent ownership of property signifies greater control and rights over the property than a leasehold estate, while a type of easement involves a right to use someone else's property for a specific purpose without possessing it. Finally, a contract to sell real estate pertains to the transaction of transferring ownership rather than the temporary use of property as seen in a leasehold estate.