Which term best describes anything owned that isn't classified as real estate?

The term that best describes anything owned that isn't classified as real estate is "Chattel." Chattel refers to movable personal property—this can include items like furniture, vehicles, and other possessions that are not permanently attached to land or buildings. Chattel is distinguished from real property, which consists of land and any structures or fixtures connected to it.

Understanding chattel is crucial in real estate and mortgage contexts because it clarifies the distinction between items that are included in a real estate transaction and those that are considered personal property. For example, when selling a home, certain appliances may be classified as chattel and thus can be negotiated as part of the sale, but the land and the home itself are considered real property.

The other terms provided have broader or different meanings. An asset generally refers to anything of value owned by an individual or entity, which can include both types of properties, while property is a broader term that encompasses both real estate and personal property. Tangible item is a more generic term that can apply to physical objects but does not specifically denote the context of ownership distinctions as clearly as chattel does. Therefore, chattel is the most precise term for movable personal property that is not classified as real estate.