What is the primary characteristic of an easement?

An easement is primarily defined as a legal right that allows one party to use another party's land for a specific and limited purpose. This is a significant characteristic because easements do not transfer ownership of the land; instead, they provide permission for particular uses that have been agreed upon. Common examples include access easements that allow utility companies to run power lines or a neighbor's right to cross your property to reach a public road.

Focusing on the concept of a limited purpose, easements are created with specific intentions in mind, such as allowing someone to walk, drive, or install utilities across someone else’s property. This legal structure is designed to balance the needs and rights of both the easement holder and the property owner, ensuring that the use is not overly broad or indefinite.

Understanding this core aspect of easements helps clarify their role and function in real estate, as they effectively facilitate shared uses of property while respecting the underlying ownership rights of the landowner.