What is the difference between signing a mortgage and signing the deeds to a property?

Signing a mortgage and signing the deeds to a property are two different things, although they are often done together. Signing the mortgage is the contract you enter into with the bank which sets out the terms and conditions of the loan which will enable you to finance your purchase. In contrast, signing the deeds is the legal act by which the seller formally transfers ownership of the property to the buyer.