What Is the Spanish Land Registry?
The Land Registry in Spain (Registro de la Propiedad) is a public legal register that protects property rights. It:
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Confirms ownership of land and buildings
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Shows encumbrances, debts, and mortgages
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Provides legal security for property transactions
📍 It is separate from the cadastre (Catastro), which records property location and size for tax purposes.
🧾 Why Property Registration Matters
Registering a property with the Land Registry is not mandatory, but highly recommended. It provides:
✅ Proof of ownership
✅ Protection against fraudulent sales
✅ Priority rights over unregistered claims
✅ Ability to obtain mortgages or loans
🏠 If you’re buying a property in Spain, registration is crucial for legal protection.
📋 What’s Included in a Land Registry Record?
Each registro contains:
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🧑💼 Owner’s identity (individual or company)
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🏘️ Description of the property (size, boundaries)
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💶 Purchase price and previous sales
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📑 Mortgages or charges
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🔒 Legal limitations (e.g. usufruct, easements)
🛠️ How to Register a Property in Spain
Step-by-Step:
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Purchase the property
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Via notarial deed (escritura pública)
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Pay applicable taxes
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ITP (resale) or VAT & AJD (new build)
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File the deed at the Land Registry
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Submit to the Registro de la Propiedad where the property is located
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⏱️ Processing takes 2–4 weeks, and you’ll receive a simple note (nota simple) as proof.
📌 Common Situations Involving the Land Registry
🔄 Buying Real Estate
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Due diligence: confirm seller ownership and mortgage-free status
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Update ownership through the registry after the sale
🏗️ New Construction
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Register the declaration of new works (obra nueva)
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Often required before occupancy permits or utility hookups
🧓 Inheritance or Donation
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Transfer ownership to heirs or recipients
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Submit will, inheritance deed, and death certificate to register the change
🔍 Accessing Property Records
You can request a “nota simple” for any registered property, which gives:
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Owner details
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Mortgage status
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Legal restrictions
💻 Access available online or via authorized agents (like lawyers or notaries)
📌 Real Example: Verifying a Coastal Villa
A British client intended to buy a villa in Alicante. Our legal team:
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Obtained the nota simple from the Land Registry
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Discovered a hidden mortgage on the property
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Negotiated with the seller to clear the debt before completion
✅ Result: Safe purchase, clean title, registered ownership
🤝 How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
We assist expats, investors, and business clients with:
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✅ Property due diligence & registry checks
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✅ Registration after purchase, inheritance, or donation
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✅ Resolving registration disputes or missing documentation
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✅ Assistance with nota simple requests
🧑⚖️ Spanish property law specialists | 🌍 International clients | 📑 Transparent process
📞 Secure Your Property Rights in Spain
Don’t leave your Spanish property unprotected. Our legal team ensures full legal registration, clear title, and peace of mind.