Title Deed Transfer Appointment and Preparation Stage
The title deed transfer day is the most critical step where the buyer officially acquires ownership rights. The appointment is booked through the online system of the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre. For foreign buyers, the appointment is usually granted within 1-7 days after the sales contract is notarised.
Both the buyer and seller must attend the appointment in person at the same time. Except in cases where one party is represented by a power of attorney, both parties are required to attend in person. Arriving at the Title Deed Office at least 30 minutes before the appointment time helps prevent any delays.
Required Documents and Checks at the Title Deed Office
The following documents must be complete for foreign buyers during the title deed transfer:
- Passport (original + notarised Turkish translation)
- Residence permit or work permit (or a commitment letter stating it will be obtained if the process is ongoing)
- Notarised sales promise contract prepared for title deed transfer
- DASK insurance policy (compulsory earthquake insurance)
- Receipts showing payment of the title deed fee and revolving capital fee calculated on the current market value
- Tax plate issued in the buyer’s name (a tax number is sufficient for individuals)
The seller is responsible for preparing the title deed, ID card, document confirming no tax debt, and the occupancy permit for the building (for new constructions).
Calculation of Title Deed Fees and Costs
The title deed fee is calculated on the higher of the property tax value or the sale price. Under normal circumstances, the buyer and seller share this fee equally. For foreign buyers, additional revolving capital fees and translation costs apply.
Example: For an apartment with a current market value of 2,000,000 TL, the total cost is calculated according to the current fee rates. Always verify the latest rates with the relevant Title Deed Office or the Official Gazette. Fees can be paid at the tax office counter inside the Title Deed Office or via bank transfer.
Procedure in Front of the Title Deed Registrar
During the appointment, the process follows this sequence:
- The title deed officer checks that all documents are complete and appropriate.
- The buyer and seller are read the details on the title deed (plot, parcel, independent section number, and type) and their approval is obtained.
- The sale price and payment method are recorded in the minutes.
- The buyer and seller sign the documents.
- The title deed registrar or authorised officer approves the transaction and issues the new title deed.
If any deficiency is found during the process, the appointment is cancelled and a new one must be booked. This is why it is essential to double-check all documents in advance.
Special Considerations for Foreign Buyers
For foreign nationals to purchase property in Turkey, a military restricted zone inspection is carried out by the Ministry of National Defence. In Konya, this review usually takes 2-5 working days. Title deed transfer cannot be completed without this approval.
Additionally, the total amount of real estate previously acquired by the buyer in Turkey must not exceed 30 hectares. These limits are monitored separately for each province. There is no quota system in Konya.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the title deed transfer be carried out with a power of attorney?
Yes, both the buyer and seller can be represented by a notarised power of attorney. However, the power of attorney must clearly state authority “to perform title deed transfer, to receive/pay the consideration, and to make all kinds of commitments.” For foreign buyers, the power of attorney must be apostilled and translated in Turkey.
How long does the title deed transfer take?
If all documents are complete and correct, the process is usually completed in 20-40 minutes. If there are missing documents or translation issues, the appointment may be cancelled and the process restarted.
What should I do after the title deed transfer?
After receiving your new title deed, you must transfer the electricity, water, and natural gas subscriptions into your name, then submit your property tax notification to the relevant municipality. A photocopy of the title deed is sufficient for these procedures.
Once your title deed transfer is successfully completed, the next step is to insure your property and put your rental or usage plans into action. The experts at Interkon Realty Group are ready to assist you throughout this process as well.
