Essential Information on Title Deed Transactions (2025 Updated Guide)

Tuna TAS
Nov 15, 2024
3 min read

One of the most critical steps in buying or selling real estate is title deed transactions. Mistakes made during this process can lead to both financial losses and time delays. So, how is a title transfer done, what documents are required, and how can the process be expedited? Here is the 2025 updated guide to title deed procedures:

1. What Is a Title Deed and Why Is It Important?

📌 A title deed (Tapu) is an official document that proves ownership of a property. Title records are maintained by the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre, serving as the primary legal proof of property ownership.

✅ Ownership Security: A title deed legally secures your property rights.

✅ Sale and Transfer Processes: A legal transfer of ownership requires an official title deed transaction.

✅ Mortgage and Investment Use: Banks rely on title records for mortgage transactions.

2. Types of Title Deeds and Their Meanings

📌 The details on a title deed vary depending on the type of property. Here are the most common types:

✔ Independent Title Deed: Shows full ownership of the property by a single individual or institution.

✔ Shared Title Deed: Indicates joint ownership of a property by multiple people, with specified shares.

✔ Condominium Ownership Deed: Issued for independent units such as apartments or offices.

✔ Condominium Easement Deed: Provided for properties still under construction or awaiting occupancy permits.

✔ Possessory Title Deed: Applied to properties with no formal title but held in possession.

3. How Is a Title Deed Transferred?

📌 Title transfers are carried out through the Land Registry Office, where a formal contract is signed between the buyer and the seller.

✅ 1. Required Documents

Title deed (provided by the seller)
Identity documents (buyer and seller)
Tax number (for foreign buyers)
Compulsory earthquake insurance (DASK)
Official valuation report from the municipality

✅ 2. Payment of Fees and Taxes

Title deed fee (2% from both buyer and seller)
Administrative service fee
VAT or stamp duty (if applicable)

✅ 3. Booking a Title Deed Appointment

Appointments can be scheduled through the Web Tapu System or via ALO 181 Land Registry Hotline.

✅ 4. Official Transactions at the Land Registry Office

Both parties sign the title deed transfer document at the registry office.
Payment must be made through a bank transfer for security.
Once the process is completed, the new title deed is registered in the buyer’s name.

📌 Example: In major cities like Istanbul, title transactions can take 2-3 days due to high demand. Booking an appointment in advance helps expedite the process.

4. Key Considerations During Title Transactions

📌 Errors in title transactions can lead to significant financial losses. Here are key precautions:

✅ Check Title Records Before Purchase

Verify whether the property has mortgages or legal encumbrances via the Land Registry Office.
Use the E-Government Title Inquiry Service for an online check.

✅ Get an Appraisal and Market Analysis

Title fees are calculated based on the declared property sale value.
Obtain an appraisal report to ensure you are paying a fair price.

✅ Ensure Secure Payments

Always make payments via bank transfers for transparency and security.
When making a deposit, sign a notarized preliminary sale contract to protect your rights.

📌 Example: If a title has an outstanding mortgage, the sale cannot proceed until the mortgage is cleared. Always check for encumbrances before completing the transaction.