Deed
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Definition
A deed is the document that transfers legal ownership of the property to the buyer. It is not a deed of trust and not the promissory note.
In plain English
At a purchase closing, one paper changes who owns the house. That paper is the deed. A deed of trust or mortgage is a different paper. It gives the lender a security interest in the same property. Ownership transfer and the lender’s security right are not the same act.
Technical definition
CFPB’s official closing-process page names the deed as the document that transfers legal ownership and distinguishes it from the promissory note and the security instrument. That official distinction is PRIMARY.
Why it matters
Closing packets mix the deed, the note, and the security instrument. Readers need ownership transfer kept separate from the loan papers.
Related terms
Commonly confused with
Sources reviewed
Mortgage key terms
Source reviewedSeptember 4, 2026
What can I expect in the mortgage closing process?
Source reviewedSeptember 6, 2026
Important note
Do not author state deed-form variations.
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