A minority of Scottish adults are fully aware of what constitutes a leasehold property, a new survey has revealed.

According to the findings of the Safe as Houses report by AA Legal Services, a minority (44 per cent) of Scots are aware of the term's correct definition.

Indeed, across the UK, approximately 20 per cent of adult Britons were unable to explain the definition of a freehold mortgage.

Under the terms of a leasehold arrangement, a buyer maintains the right to use or retain a property only for a fixed period of time.

"Our research suggests that many homebuyers are so desperate to get onto the property ladder that they may be overlooking vitally important basic legal principles," said James Molloy, head of AA Legal Services.

AA Legal Services offers a number of services, including those relating to conveyancing and personal injury.