What Is the Difference Between a Registered Mortgage and an Equitable Mortgage?

In a registered mortgage, the borrower signs a formal document, which can transfer their interest in the property in order to guarantee the loan. The signed document used to create a registered mortgage is documented in the land record as a transfer or lien on the land. The registered mortgage gives the lender more rights and power over the property than is typical for an equitable mortgage.

An equitable mortgage does not include the signing of a registered agreement, and so provide fewer guarantees to the lender.