What is described as having an indeterminable length, such as for a lifetime or forever?

A freehold estate is characterized by a form of ownership in real property that does not have a predefined termination date. Unlike leasehold estates, which are temporary and defined by a specific duration, freehold estates grant the owner rights and interests that can potentially last indefinitely. This category encompasses various ownership types, such as fee simple absolute, which allows for the most complete ownership conceivable, conveying both the right to use the property as desired and the right to transfer or sell the property.

This enduring aspect of freehold estates is fundamental to understand, especially in the context of real estate transactions, where the ownership and its implications can significantly affect property value, transferability, and rights. Understanding this distinction is crucial, as it highlights the permanent nature of ownership tied to freehold estates versus the temporary and conditional nature of other types of real property interests.