What it is
A nota simple is an official summary issued by the Spanish Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad) describing a property's current legal status — its owner, surface area, boundaries, registered charges, mortgages and any limitations on use. It is the first document any lawyer requests when assessing a property to buy. For an international buyer on the Costa del Sol, a nota simple is requested at three distinct moments: pre-offer due diligence, pre-arras, and pre-completion. Roughly 8% of Costa del Sol property transactions surface unexpected charges at the nota simple stage. This is a core term in the Costa del Sol property purchase process and one buyers frequently encounter during due diligence.
Why it matters for international buyers
Understanding Nota simple is part of the standard due diligence framework for any foreign buyer purchasing on the Costa del Sol. A Spanish property lawyer (abogado) will handle the mechanics, but buyers who understand the term can ask better questions and interpret advice more accurately.
This entry is reviewed by the Listyco editorial team. It is not legal advice; instruct a Spanish lawyer for your specific position. Last reviewed April 2026.