What type of real estate property rights does a buyer acquire when they purchase a property?

When a buyer purchases a property, they acquire freehold property rights, which grant them ownership of the property along with the rights to use, enjoy, and control it indefinitely. This ownership is usually associated with a fee simple estate, providing the most complete form of ownership, including the right to sell, lease, or modify the property as desired.

Leasehold, which is a temporary right to use property through a lease agreement, does not pertain to outright ownership and is limited in duration. Ground leases refer specifically to leasing land for a long period while maintaining ownership of any structures placed on it. Easements provide limited rights to use someone else's property for specific purposes but do not convey ownership or the full rights associated with property ownership. Thus, in the context of purchasing a property, acquiring freehold rights is what a buyer typically obtains.