What is the Spanish “nota simple” and why it is so important

If you are considering buying a property in Spain, one of the most important documents you need to be familiar with is the nota simple. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what a nota simple is, why it’s important, and how to obtain one.

What is a Nota Simple?

A nota simple, also known as a property registry report or a land registry extract, is an official document issued by the Spanish Land Registry. This document provides detailed information about a property, including its size, location, ownership details, and any liens or encumbrances on the property.

Understanding the nota simple is crucial because it can help you avoid potential legal or financial issues down the line. Here are some of the reasons why it is so important to have a clear understanding of this document before putting an offer on a house in Spain.

Why is a Nota Simple Important?

Obtaining a nota simple is a crucial step in the property-buying process in Spain. This document can help you verify the property’s ownership and ensure that it’s free of any liens or encumbrances that could affect your purchase. Additionally, a nota simple can help you identify any potential issues with the property, such as boundary disputes or planning restrictions, that could impact your ability to use the property as intended.

Without a nota simple, you run the risk of purchasing a property with hidden issues that could cost you time, money, and legal headaches down the line. By obtaining a nota simple, you can make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase or negotiate any necessary changes to the sale agreement.

• Verification of property ownership

The nota simple provides valuable information about the property’s ownership status, including the name(s) of the current owner(s), and any co-ownership arrangements. It also lists any restrictions on the property, such as easements or other rights of way.

By reviewing the nota simple, you can ensure that the person(s) selling the property are the rightful owners and that there are no legal disputes or claims on the property that could hinder the sale or transfer of ownership.

• Identification of outstanding debts or charges

The nota simple also lists any outstanding debts or charges associated with the property, such as mortgages, taxes, or community fees. This information is essential to determine the true cost of the property and to avoid any unexpected financial obligations.

If there are any outstanding debts or charges listed on the nota simple, you should verify that they are up to date and that the seller has paid them before completing the purchase.

• Confirmation of property characteristics

The nota simple provides a description of the property, including its location, size, and legal status. This information can help you confirm that the property meets your requirements and that there are no discrepancies between the description and the actual property.

It is also important to note that the nota simple does not provide information about the property’s condition or any potential defects and it is not a substitute for a full property survey. While it can provide valuable information about the property, it doesn’t cover all potential issues. Before finalizing a purchase, it’s a good idea to hire a professional surveyor to assess the property’s condition and identify any potential problems.

How to Obtain a Nota Simple

To obtain a nota simple, you’ll need to visit the local Land Registry office in the area where the property is located. You can also obtain a nota simple online, through the Land Registry’s website, (https://www.registradores.org/) or through a third-party provider. When requesting a nota simple, you’ll need to provide some unique identifying details such as the property’s address or the owner’s name. Note that intermediaries will charge you an additional fee so it is always cheaper to request it direclty from the Land Registry.

Idealista has a post were more details are explained on how to request it.

In conclusion, obtaining a nota simple is an essential step in the property-buying process in Spain. This document provides valuable information about a property’s ownership, liens, and potential issues that could impact your purchase. By obtaining a nota simple and understanding its contents, you can make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase and negotiate any necessary changes to the sale agreement.

Spainable TIP! when asking for the “nota simple” I often hear from owners or agents that they do not send upfront because it contains private data. That is not true. This document is public and there is no privacy reason for not sharing it.