When you begin the journey of buying a property, one of the most important distinctions to understand is whether the home is freehold or leasehold.

These terms influence what you own, how much control you have, and what long‑term commitments you will take on. Understanding the difference helps you make a confident and informed decision.

Freehold ownership is the more straightforward of the two. When you buy a freehold property, you own both the building and the land it stands on outright. This gives you complete control over the home, from maintenance to alterations, without needing permission from a third party.

There is no lease to worry about, and you typically avoid ongoing costs such as ground rent. Many buyers appreciate the long‑term security that comes with freehold ownership, as well as the freedom to manage the property as they see fit. The main responsibility, however, is that all repairs and upkeep fall entirely on you, which can be demanding depending on the age and condition of the property.

Leasehold ownership is different. In this case, you own the property for a set number of years, but not the land beneath it. The land belongs to a freeholder, and your ownership is defined by the terms of a legal lease. Lease lengths vary, often starting at 99, 125, or even 999 years. With leasehold, you may be required to pay ground rent, service charges, and fees for the upkeep of communal areas. You might also need permission to make certain changes to the property.

The length of the lease is crucial because a shorter lease can reduce the property’s value and make it harder to secure a mortgage. Extending a lease is possible but can be costly, so it’s essential to check the remaining term before committing to a purchase.

Choosing between freehold and leasehold depends on your priorities. Freehold offers long‑term stability and full control, while leasehold is common for flats and can work well when the terms are clear and manageable.

The key is to understand the obligations, costs, and restrictions involved so you can choose the option that best suits your plans.