Titled vs “Untitled” (Un-Registered Title)

Title, a piece of paper that can be registered with the Property Registry allowing you and others the ability to lien or mortgage the property…….IS NOT available on all property in Vieques. Up to 25% of the property currently available has no title rights.  “UNTITLED”(CANNOT BE REGISTERED WITH PROPERTY REGISTRY) does have POSESSIONARY RIGHTS . . . and that is what people sell – their RIGHTS to the land (excluding title), plus any improvements that are on the land.  You get a DEED/Compraventa or private contract basically . . . which allows you the ability to claim the property in the eyes of the Municipality/Government and to apply for utilities and building permits…AND TAXES.  IS IT RISKY?  Raw land carries the greatest risk, so it is important to clear the sale with the government if advised, clear/clean the property, fence, and build something ASAP.  Buying an “untitled” property with a building and with utilities is really not risky. Utilities alone are recognition/verification of ownership and the right to be there.  The government sells/issues titles.    Different agencies/various regulations and requirements . . . etc.  How much is a Title?  It varies and is often negotiable. The prices are much higher than they were and likely to keep going up. They are based on a pecent of an appraissed value.

Monte Santo and Isabel and Morropo have some  “untitled” uso-fructo land parcelas which CAN be titled with a +/-6 months process, a check list to complete, and a few thousand dollars.  In Santa Maria/Bravos de Boston, as well. Villa Borinquen titles are available at the CODEVI office in town.  Monte Carmelo falls under Vivienda and they say they are issuing titles, yet to be proven. .

Cash can get you a great property and  there is often OWNER Financing available!!!
So yes, some risk . . . with great reward.  A bigger bang for the buck, so to speak . . . but not always without a little “hassle factor” . . .and its not for the faint of heart or lazy.

People are also  SUING FOR TITLE.  THIS IS CALLED ADVERSE POSSESSION. Its a legal process and is not as successful as it was years ago. With the services of a lawyer and a lot of patience this is being accomplished . . . approximately $15k ..maybe more….and up to a year in the legal system . . . and no guarantee.