Question 1

Do I need a notary-attorney to buy property in Puerto Rico?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Real estate transactions are formalized through a public deed (escritura) prepared by a licensed notary-attorney, who verifies title and records your ownership at the Property Registry.

Question 2

What are the closing costs when buying real estate in Puerto Rico?

Accepted Answer

Closing costs typically range from about 5-8% of the purchase price and include notary fees, revenue stamps, registry recording fees, attorney fees, and mortgage-related costs.

Question 3

Are notaries in Puerto Rico different from notaries elsewhere in the U.S.?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Puerto Rico follows a civil-law notarial system, so a notary must be a licensed attorney with significant authority to author public deeds and authenticate documents, far beyond a notary in most U.S. states.

Question 4

What kinds of documents require a notary in Puerto Rico?

Accepted Answer

A notary-attorney is required to author public deeds for transactions such as real estate purchases, mortgages, wills, and powers of attorney, giving the document public faith (fe pública).

Liz Morales Ramos

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