What does a mortgage represent?

A mortgage represents a security instrument in which real property is used as collateral for a loan. This means that when a borrower takes out a mortgage to purchase property, they are essentially pledging that property as security for the loan borrowed from a lender. If the borrower fails to repay the loan as agreed, the lender has the right to take possession of the property through a legal process known as foreclosure, thereby protecting the lender's financial interest.

Leasing documents pertain to rental agreements and do not involve the concept of collateral. Similarly, a contract to sell property pertains to the transfer of ownership, rather than the collateralization of a loan. An appraisal report assesses the value of the property but does not serve the function of securing a loan. Thus, the definition of a mortgage as a security instrument effectively encapsulates its role and significance in real estate transactions.