How to Get a Turkish Title Deed (TAPU)

A Turkish title deed, known locally as a TAPU, is a crucial document signifying property ownership. It includes detailed information about the property and the owner. The TAPU and Cadastre General Directorate in Turkey supplies, registers, and archives these deeds. Understanding the Turkish title deed transfer process and its potential pitfalls is vital for buyers. We recommend consulting a lawyer for all necessary checks, especially if you're buying a property with the aim of obtaining citizenship. We work with several property solicitors in Turkey and can recommend a suitable professional. We also offer a complete purchase and investment package for a smooth transaction from start to finish.

Types of Turkish Title Deeds

There are two main types of Turkish title deeds: Blue TAPU and Red TAPU.

Blue TAPU

This pertains to land titles and shared ownership:

1. Land Ownership: The title will apply solely to the land, not to any dwellings on it.
2. Shared Ownership: This is for developments with multiple dwellings. The title specifies your share of the overall property, e.g., owning one out of 20 houses in a block. This limits an owner’s autonomy over the property, making it difficult to make large decisions regarding sale or upkeep. Mortgages cannot be taken out on shared ownership properties.

Red TAPU

This freehold title denotes individual ownership, specifying the unit on the deed. For example, it will state “house 3” instead of a share of a development. Mortgages can be placed on properties with a Red TAPU. It is categorized as either 'kat irtifaki' or 'kat mulkiyeti':

1. Kat Irtifaki (Construction Servitude): This indicates a development still in progress, showing the allocation of units within a development as per resource consent.
2. Kat Mulkiyeti (Full Title Deed): Once construction is completed and approved by local authorities, an occupation license (Iskan) is granted. The property can then connect utilities and the title is converted to kat mulkiyeti, indicating a fully completed and approved dwelling.

Checking Your Turkish Title Deed

Before purchasing, it’s crucial to ensure the title deed is clear of any charges, mortgages, or other restrictions. This can be done by the buyer or their lawyer, given they have power of attorney.

Costs Involved in Obtaining a Turkish Title Deed

• Title Deed Transfer Fee (Stamp Duty Tax): This is 4% of the purchase price, typically paid by the buyer but sometimes split with the seller depending on negotiations.

Steps to Obtain a Turkish Title Deed

1. Make an Appointment: Schedule a meeting at your local title deed office. Bring your passport and ID cards.
2. Declaration Value Agreement: The parties agree on a declaration value for the transaction to apply stamp duty.
3. Pay Stamp Duty: This is paid via wire transfer by the buyer.
4. Seller Signs: The seller signs the title deed, confirming receipt of the purchase consideration and the transfer of the title without duress.
5. Buyer Signs: The buyer signs the title deed, accepting it with any charges it may have.
6. Issuance of Title Deed: The new owner receives the original title deed in their name.

Turkish Title Deeds and Citizenship by Investment

Investors can obtain Turkish citizenship by investing a minimum of $400,000 in Turkish property. In this case, a charge is placed on the title deed preventing its transfer for three years. We recommend ensuring the title is free of any mortgages or charges before making such an investment.

For a seamless and secure property purchase in Turkey, consulting with professionals and understanding the detailed process of obtaining a TAPU is crucial.