What is the difference between a "mortgage" and a "deed of trust"?

The correct choice highlights that a mortgage involves two parties, the borrower and the lender, while a deed of trust involves three parties: the borrower (trustor), the lender (beneficiary), and a third-party trustee. This distinction is essential in understanding how each instrument functions in the context of securing a loan.

In a mortgage, the borrower directly pledges the property to the lender as security for the loan. In contrast, a deed of trust places the property title in the hands of a trustee who holds it as security for the loan until the borrower pays off the debt. This three-party relationship in a deed of trust adds a layer of protection for the lender, as they have recourse to a trustee who can handle foreclosure proceedings if necessary.

Understanding the role of these parties and how they interact helps clarify the mechanisms of real estate financing and security interests in property.