Understanding Freeholds in Ashes of Creation: A Player’s Guide

ChromaGopher

What is a Freehold and How Do You Get One?

In Ashes of Creation, a freehold is a personal plot of land that players can use to build a home or base. To place a freehold plot, you first need a bound deed, also called a permit or certificate, from a parent settlement that has reached at least stage 3 (a Village) or a higher-level city.

Most players obtain a freehold deed by completing a Lord's quest. This quest is designed to test whether a player is worthy of managing an estate. Currently, the level requirement for this quest is 50, though this may change based on testing and balance adjustments. The deed system ensures that players who engage with node progression and settlement politics are given access to land ownership, making freeholds a reward for active participation in the world.

---

Are There More Deeds or Estates?

One important detail is that there will usually be more deeds than actual estates available. This means not every deed holder can immediately place a freehold. Estates are distributed through auctions, where both citizens and non-citizens of a settlement can bid. This system encourages competition and planning, as players must decide strategically when and where to bid to secure a desirable plot.

---

How Do Freehold Auctions Work?

Freehold auctions take place within predetermined baronies, which are areas under the influence of a settlement's node. These locations are set in advance, but the specific placement of your freehold within the estate is up to you. Once a player wins an auction, they can claim the estate within the settlement’s Zone of Influence (ZOI) or even within a vassal settlement’s ZOI.

Winning an auction does not automatically place your freehold. You still need to use the deed item in your inventory to select the exact location of your plot from a top-down view. This gives players the freedom to choose the optimal layout for their freehold based on terrain and personal preference. Most players spend time reviewing the land and adjusting orientation to make the most efficient or aesthetically pleasing placement.

---

Level Requirements and Placement

To actually place a freehold plot, a player must be at least level 20. The cost in the Alpha-2 Phase-2 was 100 (though this system was temporary and subject to wipe, with compensation for existing owners).

The current design debate around level requirements is worth noting. Some players have suggested lowering the deed quest requirement to level 30 to allow a smoother transition from node-based processing professions to freehold ownership. However, the developers have kept the quest at level 50 to maintain progression balance. In general, most players accept that freehold ownership is intended as a mid- to late-game activity.

---

Using and Customizing Your Freehold

Once the deed is successfully placed, you gain access to an empty freehold plot and a small shed. The deed functions as an item in your bag, and interacting with it switches you to a top-down view of the estate. From there, you can adjust the orientation and exact placement of your freehold.

Players usually take their time with this step because it affects both the aesthetics and efficiency of their freehold. Common strategies include positioning the plot near resources or along a path that maximizes convenience for gathering and crafting.

---

Access and Permissions

Owning a freehold doesn’t automatically grant access to everyone. Freehold deeds have permission settings that allow owners to manage who can enter their land. This ensures that even lower-level friends or guildmates can be allowed access, while keeping the main estate secure. Most players rely on these settings to avoid griefing or unwanted interference in their freehold space.

---

Practical Tips for New Freehold Owners

• Plan Before You Bid: Examine the auctioned estate area carefully and consider terrain, proximity to resources, and neighbors.
  
• Level Up Strategically: You need at least level 50 for the deed quest, but placement requires only level 20. Focus on node progression and processing mastery before committing.
  
• Experiment With Orientation: Use the top-down placement system to adjust your freehold for maximum space and efficiency.
  
• Set Permissions Early: Decide who can access your freehold to prevent problems and manage crafting areas effectively.
  
• Optional Boosts: Some players choose to buy Ashes of Creation gold for leveling on U4N to reach placement requirements faster or to fund initial bidding, though this is entirely optional.
  
  

Freeholds in Ashes of Creation are designed to reward engaged and strategic players. They combine personal expression with practical utility, offering a unique way to interact with the game’s world. Most players find that understanding deed acquisition, auctions, and placement mechanics early helps them maximize the value of their freehold. By planning bids, managing permissions, and thoughtfully placing plots, freehold ownership can become one of the most rewarding aspects of your Ashes of Creation experience.