Legal Definitions - homestead

A homestead is a property that includes a house, other buildings, and the land around it. It is owned by a person or a family and used as their home.

Some homesteads have special legal protections. For example, in some states, creditors cannot take away a debtor's homestead to pay off debts. Homesteads may also be exempt from property taxes and from certain inheritance laws.

Each state has its own laws about homesteads. Some states limit the amount of protection a homestead can have, while others offer unlimited protection.

John and his family live on a homestead in rural Montana. The property includes a house, a barn, and several acres of land. Because Montana has a generous homestead exemption, John's property is protected from most creditors.

In contrast, Sarah lives in a small apartment in New York City. Her apartment is not a homestead because it does not include any land. If Sarah were to fall behind on her rent, her landlord could evict her and take possession of the apartment.

These examples illustrate how a homestead is a type of property that provides certain legal protections to homeowners.