The Tapu is central to ownership, but a clean acquisition also depends on the property’s encumbrances, zoning, permits, physical conformity, payment route and contract.

TransferLand Registry registration
ReviewBuyer-side lawyer
MatchDocument to physical unit
01

What the Tapu does

The official Investment Office states that ownership titles are approved through registration at Land Registry directorates. Private contracts may create obligations but do not themselves complete title transfer.

The record should be matched to the actual property: block, parcel, independent unit, ownership share and registered use.

DECISION CHECKVerify owner identityMatch exact unitConfirm registered use
02

Encumbrances and restrictions

Mortgages, liens, annotations, rights of use, court measures or project-specific restrictions can affect value and transfer. A current record should be examined by a professional acting for the buyer.

Citizenship transactions may require particular annotations and compliance checks beyond an ordinary purchase.

DECISION CHECKObtain current registry informationPlan release of debtsCheck citizenship history
03

Building and planning file

Review zoning, construction permit, occupancy status, approved plans and legally registered alterations as applicable. A physically impressive property can still contain unauthorised work.

Technical inspection should address structure, water, roof, façade, mechanical systems and shared areas—not only visible finishes.

DECISION CHECKLegal and technical reviews are differentCheck additions and terracesReview seismic documentation
04

Payment and closing control

The contract should define property, price, currency, payment milestones, conditions, default, delivery and dispute provisions. Payment recipient and banking trail must be verified.

At closing, use required interpretation, inspect the property, record handover and keep certified copies. Never rely on urgency as a reason to shorten checks.

DECISION CHECKNo payment to unverified recipientNo unread contractNo rushed closing

PRIMARY SOURCES & VERIFICATION

Read the official basis.

Rules, administrative practice and market conditions can change. Use these primary sources and obtain advice for your facts before acting.

Invest in Türkiye — acquiring property and citizenshipLand Registry (TKGM) — foreign buyer questions
Editorial note

This article is general educational information, not legal, tax, engineering, investment or immigration advice. Bursa Menkul coordinates property advisory; regulated decisions should be reviewed by the appropriate authorised professional.