Which term describes an item that was once personal property but is now attached to real estate?

The term that describes an item that was once personal property but is now attached to real estate is a fixture. Fixtures refer to items that have been permanently affixed to a property, meaning they can no longer be removed without causing damage to the structure. Examples include built-in appliances, chandeliers, or bathtubs that were originally personal property but have become part of the real estate.

Understanding the concept of fixtures is crucial in real estate transactions, as it influences what is included in the sale of a property. Buyers and sellers need to be clear about which items are considered fixtures to avoid disputes later. Fixtures differ from personal property, which is not attached and can be removed without affecting the real estate.

The other choices relate to different concepts in real estate: an easement refers to a right to cross or use someone else's land for a specified purpose; a leasehold represents a tenant's interest in rental property; and an appurtenance is a right or privilege that comes with the property but does not necessarily relate to the attachment of personal property. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the complexity of real estate ownership and rights.