Acquiring a Title Deed in the Republic of Turkey
Understanding the Tapu and How It Works
A title deed, or Tapu in Turkish, is a crucial legal document that verifies ownership of a property in the Republic of Turkey. This official record provides comprehensive details about the property and its owner, acting as irrefutable proof of ownership.
The responsibility for maintaining and managing title deed records falls under the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre (Tapu ve Kadastro Genel Müdürlüğü - TKGM). TKGM operates across all cities in the Republic of Turkey, ensuring that property ownership is well-documented and accessible. With a long history that dates back to the Ottoman Empire, this institution continues to play an essential role in property transactions today.
Types of Title Deeds (Tapu) in the Republic of Turkey
There are two primary categories of title deeds in the Republic of Turkey, each defining the type of property and the ownership rights involved:
1. Blue Tapu
The Blue Tapu is typically issued for properties that are used for agricultural purposes or land that falls outside of urban planning schemes. It reflects shared ownership of the land and may restrict an owner's ability to independently sell, mortgage, or make decisions about the property. The rights and responsibilities of owners with a Blue Tapu are generally more limited.
2. Red Tapu
A Red Tapu is issued for freehold properties, covering both residential and commercial units. Within this category, you will find:
Construction Servitude: This title is issued for properties that are still under construction. It signifies that the property is being developed but not yet completed.
Condominium Ownership: Once a property receives its iskan (occupancy permit) after construction is completed and inspected by the local municipality, this title confirms full ownership of the property.
Timeshare Ownership: This title allows for shared or fractional ownership, commonly associated with timeshare properties.
How to Obtain a Title Deed in the Republic of Turkey
At Home Real Estate & Investment, we ensure that your journey toward owning property is smooth and hassle-free. The process of acquiring a Tapu involves several steps, beginning with selecting a property and signing a purchase contract. Afterward, we schedule an appointment at the local Tapu Office to complete the transaction. If needed, you can provide Power of Attorney so that we can handle the process on your behalf.
During the title deed transfer, both the seller and the buyer (or their appointed representatives) must be present at the Tapu Office, alongside a sworn translator to assist in understanding the terms, especially for foreign buyers.
Documents Required for Title Deed Transfer
To transfer ownership, you will need to provide the following documents:
Buyer’s Tax Number
Passport copy with Turkish translation
Appraisal report
Seller’s ID or passport
Current Value (Rayiç)
We take care of all these documents for our clients, preparing them ahead of time for submission to the Tapu Office.
Steps for Acquiring a Tapu
The steps for obtaining a title deed in the Republic of Turkey are as follows:
Agree on who will pay the title deed fee.
Pay the property tax at the municipality.
Apply for an appointment at the Land Registry Office.
Pay the required fees.
Both buyer and seller (or their representatives) meet at the agreed time to complete the process.
Cost of Title Deed Transfer
The main cost involved in the transfer of a title deed is the stamp duty tax, which is 4% of the purchase price. The buyer typically pays this fee at the time of transfer.
Timeline for Title Deed Transfer
The Tapu transfer process usually takes between 3 to 5 days, with payment to the Tapu Office required on the final day. Once the process is complete, we assist with setting up utilities like water and electricity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do I need a translator for the title deed procedure?
A: Yes, if one of the parties is a foreigner, a sworn translator must be present to ensure all terms are understood.
Q: Does my spouse have ownership rights to the property?
A: Under the civil law of the Republic of Turkey, if you purchase a property after marriage, your spouse has equal ownership rights, even if their name is not listed on the Tapu.
Q: Can my minor children hold title deeds?
A: Yes, children under 18 can hold title deeds, but you will need an apostille on the child's birth certificate.
Q: What happens to my property when I pass away?
A: As properties in the Republic of Turkey are freehold, they can be inherited by your family upon your death.
Q: Can multiple people share ownership of a title deed?
A: Yes, there is no limit to the number of individuals who can be listed on a title deed.
Q: How can I replace a lost title deed?
A: If you lose your original title deed, it can be easily reissued by the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre.
Q: Can I sell my property without a title deed?
A: No, the title deed is necessary to complete the sale of your property.
Q: How do I confirm the authenticity of a title deed?
A: The Tapu is an official, legally binding document that includes detailed information about the owner and the property. You can always seek legal advice to verify its authenticity.
More Key Information About Tapu
If you’re purchasing property in the Republic of Turkey, here are some key terms on the Tapu to be familiar with:
İl: Province
İlçe: District
Mahalle/Köy: Neighbourhood/Village
Ada: Plot
Parsel: Parcel
Yüzölçümü: Total land area
Bağımsız Bölüm: Independent section
Arsa Payı: Share of land
Blok/Giriş/Kat No: Block/Entrance/Floor number
Cilt/Sayfa No: Volume/Page number
Malik Bilgileri: Owner information
Adı Soyadı/Baba Adı: Owner’s name/Father’s name
Hisse: Share
Taşınmaz Tipi/No: Property type/Number
Edinme Sebebi: Reason for acquisition
Konum Bilgisi: Property address (with QR Code)
Tescil Tarihi/Yevmiye No: Registration date/Number
At Home Real Estate & Investment, we are here to guide you through every step of the property purchase process in the Republic of Turkey. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, our team will ensure a smooth experience, from obtaining your Tapu to setting up utilities. If you're looking for a reliable partner in real estate, Home Real Estate & Investment offers all the services you need under one roof. Reach out to us for more information and personalized assistance.
