National Real Estate Practice Exam

What is the term for a legal right to use another person's land for a specific purpose?

1. Easement

2. Encroachment

3. Leasehold

4. License

The correct answer is: Easement

The term that accurately describes a legal right to use another person's land for a specific purpose is an easement. An easement is a grant of permission or a right of way that allows one party to utilize a portion of another party's land for a specific use, such as access to a road or utility installation. This right is typically attached to the land rather than to an individual, making it a significant aspect of property law. Easements can be either temporary or permanent and can cover a wide range of uses. They are created through various means, including express agreements, implied use, or necessity. Understanding easements is crucial for anyone involved in real estate, as they can impact property values and the use of land significantly. In contrast, other options refer to different concepts: encroachment involves a structure or improvement that illegally extends onto another person's property; leasehold refers to an interest in land that grants occupancy rights for a specified period in exchange for rent; and a license provides permission for an individual to do something on someone else's land, but it does not create a permanent interest in the land like an easement does. Therefore, recognizing the distinction between these terms is vital for navigating property rights.