When it comes to buying property in Spain — especially along the sun-drenched coastline of Mijas Costa, La Cala de Mijas, Riviera del Sol, and Calahonda — most expat buyers focus on the features of the home: the sea views, the terrace, the pool, the proximity to the beach. But according to Keith from Target Property Spain, there is one document that determines whether the beautiful property you’ve fallen in love with is truly safe to buy.
That document is the Nota Simple.
In his latest Two Minute Tuesday video, Keith breaks down why this short legal extract is arguably the most important part of the due diligence process — and why every buyer should insist on reviewing it before signing anything.
What Is the Nota Simple?
The Nota Simple is an official extract issued by the Spanish Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad). It serves as a legal snapshot of the property, detailing:
- Who legally owns the property
- Existing mortgages or loans secured against it
- Any debts, charges, or embargoes
- Rights of way or easements affecting the property
- A description of the property as it is registered
For expat buyers who may not be familiar with the Spanish system, the Nota Simple is the equivalent of a property’s identity card. It confirms whether what’s being sold matches what legally exists.
Why Buyers Must Double-Check It
Keith highlights a common — and potentially costly — issue: many buyers never see the Nota Simple until it’s too late, or they rely on an outdated version.
An older Nota Simple might hide critical information, such as:
- A recently added mortgage
- A pending debt
- A legal charge
- A discrepancy between the advertised property and the registered property
These surprises can lead to delays, renegotiations, or even the collapse of the sale. For expat buyers, who often fly in for only a few days or rely on remote purchases, these issues can be even more disruptive.
The Importance of an Up-to-Date Copy
Spanish property registries are updated frequently. That’s why Keith advises buyers to request a fresh Nota Simple — ideally issued the same day they plan to sign the private purchase contract.
A current Nota Simple ensures that:
- The seller still owns the property
- No new debts or embargoes have been registered
- The property description matches what is being sold
- There are no legal surprises waiting after the deposit is paid
This simple step can prevent thousands of euros in unexpected costs and eliminate unnecessary stress during the buying process.
Who Should Request It?
Buyers can obtain a Nota Simple themselves, but Keith recommends letting a qualified Spanish lawyer handle it. A local lawyer will know how to read it correctly, identify red flags, and confirm that the property is legally sound.
For international buyers unfamiliar with Spanish terminology and legal nuances, this support is invaluable.
Buying a Home in Mijas Costa With Confidence
The Costa del Sol continues to attract buyers from the UK, Ireland, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, and beyond — all seeking sunshine, lifestyle, and secure investment opportunities. The Nota Simple is one of the key tools that helps ensure a safe, transparent purchase.
Keith and the team at Target Property Spain guide expat buyers through every step of the process, from neighbourhood advice to legal checks to completion at the Notary. By understanding critical documents like the Nota Simple, buyers can make informed decisions with complete peace of mind.
Looking to Buy Property in Mijas Costa?
For personalised guidance and expert local advice, contact Target Property Spain today.
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