Land Registry Entry

1. Land registry entry (Tapu) in Turkey

The Tapu is the official title and land registry document. It confirms the lawful owner, property type, location and plot data, and any encumbrances.

Title is legally transferred only upon official registration at the land registry office.

2. How does transfer of ownership work?

1. Property checks

  • Ownership, encumbrances, mortgages
  • İskan, Kat Mülkiyeti / Kat İrtifakı, İmar status
  • Outstanding service charges

2. Reservation / purchase contract

Price, payment terms and handover are agreed. Legal ownership passes only at the Tapu office.

3. Documents

Buyer: passport/ID, Turkish tax number, photos, translations/power of attorney if needed. Seller: valid Tapu, ID, building documents.

4. Appointment at the Tapu office

Both parties confirm the sale; the register is updated and the buyer receives the new Tapu.

3. Purchase costs

Tapu transfer tax

Legally 4% of the declared purchase value, often split 2% buyer / 2% seller.

Other costs

  • Interpreter, translations, notary
  • Agent and legal fees
  • DASK earthquake insurance
  • Utility transfer fees

4. Requirements for foreign buyers

Foreign nationals may generally buy property, with restrictions in military/security zones and area limits. Required: tax number, valid passport, foreign exchange proof (Döviz Alım Belgesi).

5. Buying land

Check İmar status, buildability, infrastructure and permitted use (Arsa, Tarla, tourism, protected areas).

6. TAKS and KAKS / Emsal

TAKS – max. footprint share (e.g. 30% of 1,000 m² = 300 m² per floor). KAKS/Emsal – total buildable area across floors. These ratios strongly affect land value and project size.

7. Recommendation

Always obtain professional due diligence, especially for new builds, land, tourism and investment projects.

Our agents are here to help

We support purchases, Tapu procedures, land checks, planning questions and investments. Our Agents · Contact