What’s the Difference Between Freehold, Leasehold, and Flying Freehold?
- Posted by Luscombe & Co in Other
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Now we’re diving into the juicy legal stuff—freehold vs. leasehold vs. flying freehold. It’s the kind of thing that makes most buyers’ eyes glaze over… until they realize it affects how much control they have over their home, how long they own it, and whether or not they’re allowed to have a cat!
Let’s break it down in a fun, no-jargon, “you’ll actually remember this” way
Buying a property isn’t just about granite countertops and garden size—you’ve got to know what you’re actually buying. Is it yours forever? Can someone charge you ground rent? Are you floating over someone else’s hallway? (Yes, that’s a real thing.) Let’s break down the three big terms that confuse buyers everywhere: freehold, leasehold, and the oddly named flying freehold.
1. Freehold – You Own It All, Baby
Think of freehold as full ownership. You own the building and the land it stands on. No landlord, no lease running out, no permission needed to paint your front door pink.
Perks:
No ground rent or service charges (usually). You’re in control—make changes, extend, renovate. Forever yours (unless you sell or the apocalypse happens).
Typical with: Most houses.
2. Leasehold – You Own the Property, But Not the Land
Leasehold is like a very long rental. You own the property for a set number of years (could be 999, could be 89) but not the land it’s on. The land—and often the building—is owned by a freeholder (aka landlord).
Catch:
You may pay ground rent, service charges, and possibly get charged for things like building maintenance or communal gardening. You usually need permission to make big changes. When the lease gets short (like under 80 years), the value drops and it can be harder to sell or remortgage.
Typical with: Flats/apartments, some new-build houses.
3. Flying Freehold – The “What the Heck?” One
A flying freehold is when part of your property hangs over or under someone else’s land or property—but you still own it freehold.
Example: You own a bedroom above your neighbour’s passageway or garage.
Weird? Yes.
Dealbreaker? Not necessarily.
Just be aware:
It can be a headache for access and maintenance. Mortgage lenders might raise an eyebrow and ask for extra info or indemnity insurance. It’s rare—but not that rare.
Quick Recap:
| Type | You Own the Land? | Ongoing Fees? | Typical For |
| Freehold | Yes | No (or minimal) | Houses |
| Leasehold | No | Yes (ground rent, etc.) | Flats, new builds |
| Flying Freehold | Partially | Possibly | Quirky layouts, older homes |
Knowing your “hold” is key to understanding your rights, responsibilities, and long-term costs. Always check the small print, and don’t be afraid to ask your agent (or solicitor) to explain it like you’re five. Because when you’re buying a home, you deserve to know exactly what you’re getting—and what might be hanging over your head… literally.