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1. How is my mortgage satisfied?

The preferred method is to use a mortgage satisfaction piece - a document that is a signed and notarized by the mortgagee (your lender) with the mortgage recording information on it. In limited cases, a private lender may appear in our office or a power of attorney may be used.

2. Who satisfies my mortgage?

The mortgagee (your lender) initiates this action. They may however, send the actual forms to you. Before making your final mortgage payment, contact your lender to see how it will be handled.

3. What do I do if the satisfaction papers are sent to me?

Bring or mail the original mortgage and the satisfaction piece to our office with the proper fee. Lost mortgages may be satisfied by using a certified copy from our office.

4. What is the difference between a Lien and a Mortgage?

A lien is any official claim or charge against property or funds for payment of a debt or an amount owed for services rendered. The “property” doesn’t necessarily have to be real estate, just something of value owned by the debtor.

A mortgage is a loan that has been secured by real estate. Typically a mortgage gives the lender the right to seize and sell your home if you default on the mortgage payments. A mortgage can become a lien if the mortgagor goes into default, but otherwise a mortgage is not technically a lien.

In county terminology, a Lien is a court-ordered claim against an individual recorded at the Prothonotary’s Office. 

A Mortgage is a loan that has been secured by real estate recorded at the Recorder of Deeds office.