A deed of trust (DOT), is a document that conveys title to real property to a trustee as security for a loan until the grantor (borrower) repays the lender according to terms defined in an attached promissory note. It's similar to a mortgage, but differs in that mortgages only include two parties (borrower and lender).
In Tennessee, a Deed of Trust is the most commonly used instrument to secure a loan. Foreclosure can be done non-judicially, saving time and expense. This process is called a Trustee Sale.
There are three parties in this Deed of Trust:
1- The Grantor (Borrower)
2- Holder (Lender) and a
3- Trustee (Neutral Third Party)
Basic Concept. The Trustor (Borrower) conveys property title to a Trustee (Neutral Party). A Trustee or beneficiary/Lender can take an action against any person for damages.
This form can be used by a party selling/financing their own house, rental, condominium or small office building. A Promissory Note and Deed of Trust combined with stringent default terms, can be advantageous to the Lender.

(Tennessee DOT Package includes form, guidelines, and completed example)

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