Simple Note

A nota simple is a legal document often heard in Spain. In this short article we give an overview of what it is and why it is so useful. It is important for a number of reasons and applies to a wide range of cases.

In simple terms, it is one of the most important documents used in the Spanish property transfer process.

Definition

A nota simple is an official report from the land registry that gives a brief description of the property, its boundaries, the details of the property and whether it is in debt or free of any encumbrances.

When is a "simple note" required?

To buy a property

To sell a property.

For a rental property.

To apply for a mortgage.

For an asset search.

For a matrimonial proceeding.

For inheritance proceedings.

For inheritance proceedings.

For the collection of debts.

When the Fraud Unit is looking for ill-gotten assets in Spain.

Private detectives.

What information can be found in a "nota simple"?

Current property.

Current property.

Type of property (freehold, leasehold, rural, urban, OPV, etc.)

General description of the property.

Its delimitation

Charges, debts, etc.

Other.

Who needs a "simple note"?

Matrimonial proceedings: tracing the Spanish property of one party.

Inheritance proceedings: tracing of the Spanish assets of a deceased person.

Debt recovery: locating assets in Spain belonging to individuals or legal entities, legally seizing them (a separate legal service applies, please consult us).

Buying, selling or renting a property in Spain: find out if a property has encumbrances or debts, long term tenants, if the seller is your contact (avoid selling or renting scams), if a property is classified as rural or urban, if there are legal proceedings pending against it (seizure, unpaid taxes, unpaid community fees, legal limitations, etc.)

Loan applications: if you are applying for a loan (mortgage) on a property, you will be asked for this updated document.