The Title Registry allows the registration of judicial measures affecting real estate properties; the procedure is free and has a response time of 30 business days
SANTO DOMINGO – Individuals needing to register a court order concerning a property can request the registration of a seizure or immobilization order with the Registry of Titles. This procedure allows for the registration of a court-issued order, according to the Dominican Republic's Real Estate Registry.
To access this service, applicants must submit a certified copy of the court decision, an application form, and the corresponding identification documents. They must also verify that the property description matches its registration details.
This action is part of the services of the Property Registry and can be processed in person or through the methods enabled by the institution.
What is the difference between the seizure and the immobilization of a property?
The seizure of a property may involve its custody or administration by a person appointed pursuant to a court decision, for the purpose of preserving the property while a dispute is resolved or a court order is fulfilled.
For its part, the immobilization order seeks to prevent or restrict certain registration actions concerning the property, in accordance with the scope of the court order. This measure can help prevent transactions that could jeopardize ownership while the corresponding order remains in effect.
Registration allows for the court order to be made public and provides proof that a measure affecting the property exists. Its effects will depend on what the court establishes and the nature of the order issued.
What documents are needed to request the service?
Those interested must meet the requirements so that the Registry of Titles can process the annotation of the judicial measure.
The necessary documents include a certified copy of the court decision ordering the seizure or immobilization, with the correct description of the property.
An application form that properly identifies the property or assets involved is also required.
In addition, a legible copy, on both sides, of the identity card of the applicant or depositor must be submitted.
In the case of foreigners, a copy of the passport is required along with a second official national identification document or document from the country of origin.
The documentation must correspond to the required action and allow for the correct identification of both the asset and the people involved.
Where and how is the application submitted?
The process can be carried out at the competent Title Registry, depending on the jurisdiction where the property is located, or through the available remote deposit methods.
Likewise, users can initiate the procedure through the Virtual Office of the Real Estate Registry, attach the required files and complete the delivery of the originals at the Title Registry of their choice, in accordance with institutional provisions.
In-person service is also available at the corresponding service windows.
Another alternative is the unattended deposit, which allows the delivery of documentation through this method enabled by the institution.
Similarly, remote document submission can be used.
Before starting the process, it is recommended to check that the requirements are complete and that the court decision correctly identifies the property for which registration is requested.
How much does it cost and what is the response time?
The registration of these measures is exempt from taxes and fees for services of the Property Registry, according to the conditions established for this procedure.
The expected response period is 30 business days, although the delivery date may vary according to the service time granted by the institution at the time of receiving the request.
What are the opening hours?
The offices provide in-person service Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
In contrast, the Virtual Office of the Real Estate Registry remains permanently available to carry out the procedures enabled on the platform.
This service is aimed at interested parties who meet the corresponding documentary and procedural requirements to request the registration of a judicial decision of seizure or immobilization on a registered property.
Recommended readings:
- Did you know that the Title Registry can ask you for documents to prove that you are a creditor in a real estate foreclosure?
- Certification of the Legal Status of the Property: what it is and why it is advisable to request it before buying
- Why is it important to consult the Cadastral Parcel Register before buying a property?
