TAPU: An all-important document denoting property ownership in Turkey

TAPU registration: tips and nuances of the procedure

TAPU is a document that regulates and verifies property ownership in Turkey. It is the only timeless and indisputable proof of this right. All records and changes in the TAPU are in the unified archives of the cadastral system.

TAPU is a paper with a photo of the owner and several points characterizing the property.

1. You find information about the location of the property and the land.
2. It proves the date when the land appears in the cadastral system.
3. The size of the property. Instead of the square meters in TAPU, you find the number of land shares.
4. Property value and status.
5. Information about the previous owner.
6. Information about registration and its number

The colour of the document may also vary. Blue colour indicates land titles and shared ownership, and red - both residential and commercial properties (an apartment, a house or their shares).

How to Obtain a Turkish Title Deed (TAPU)

Registration of property in Turkey begins with an appointment at the cadastral office. Before that, it is necessary to collect documents required to obtain a TAPU:

• four photos of the future owner of the property;
• the passport of the buyer;
• a copy of your passport (translated and stamped);
• tax number (obtained in advance).

If you purchase the property through an intermediary, you have to provide a power of attorney. You can receive TAPU after either paying the whole amount out of your pocket or taking a loan.

Also, the military committee checks every property to make sure it does not fall under military or state protection, and its position is not strategically important. If non-nationals have already purchased a property in the building, there is no need for confirmation from the military department.

It is easy to register TAPU if you purchase real estate through an experienced agency.

Real estate agencies help at all stages - from selection to direct receipt of TAPU.