Glossary of Spanish property terms

Terms A–Z

NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)

The foreigner identification number required to complete a purchase, open utilities accounts and file tax in Spain. It is an identifier, not a residence permit.

Nota simple

An extract from the Land Registry showing the registered owner, the description of the property and any charges, mortgages or restrictions registered against it.

Escritura pública

The public deed of sale, signed before a notary. Signing the escritura is the moment ownership transfers.

Notario

A public official who authenticates the deed and verifies the parties and formalities. The notary is neutral and does not act as your adviser.

Registro de la Propiedad

The Land Registry. Registering the deed after signing is what makes your ownership enforceable against third parties.

Catastro

The cadastre: the administrative register describing and valuing property for tax purposes. Its record can differ from the Land Registry's, and the difference matters.

Valor de referencia

The reference value assigned by the cadastre, used as a minimum taxable base for certain transfer taxes regardless of the price agreed.

ITP (Impuesto sobre Transmisiones Patrimoniales)

Transfer tax on resale property. The rate is set by the autonomous community, so it varies by region.

IVA and AJD

VAT and stamp duty, which apply to new-build purchases in place of transfer tax. AJD is also regionally set.

IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles)

The annual local property tax, levied by the municipality and based on the cadastral value.

Plusvalía municipal

A municipal tax on the increase in land value on transfer. It is normally a seller's cost, but this is negotiable and worth confirming in writing.

Comunidad de propietarios

The owners' association for a building or urbanisation, which sets and collects community fees for shared maintenance and services.

Contrato de arras

The deposit contract that reserves the property and sets the completion terms, including what happens if either party withdraws.

Cédula de habitabilidad / licencia de primera ocupación

Certification that a dwelling is legally habitable or has been granted first occupancy. Its absence can block utilities, lending and resale.

Gestoría

An administrative agency that handles filings, registrations and tax paperwork. Distinct from a lawyer, and not a substitute for legal advice.

Poder notarial

A notarised power of attorney, commonly used so a representative in Spain can sign on a buyer's behalf.