A property only changes hands officially through a title deed transfer. A verbal agreement or a deposit does not transfer ownership; for the buyer to become the legal owner, the official transfer must be completed at the Land Registry Office. This guide explains the process step by step, from appointment to transfer day.
What Is a Title Deed Transfer?
A title deed transfer is the official transfer of a property's ownership from seller to buyer at the Land Registry and Cadastre Office. Once completed and a new deed is issued, the buyer becomes the legal owner. Because these transactions are backed by state guarantee, following the correct steps is the safest way to buy or sell.
Required Documents
The basic documents the parties should prepare include:
- ID documents of buyer and seller
- Passport photo (usually from the buyer)
- The existing title deed or block/parcel details
- Current property value document from the municipality
- Mandatory earthquake insurance (DASK) policy
- Notarized power of attorney if acting by proxy
Appointment and Application
An appointment is booked first, via the Land Registry's online system (webtapu) or the Alo 181 line. On the appointment day, buyer and seller attend the relevant Land Registry Office with the required documents.
Transfer Fee and Costs
The transfer fee is calculated on the declared sale price and, by law, is charged separately to buyer and seller at a set rate. A revolving-fund service fee also applies. Declaring the real sale price is essential; under-declaration carries penalty risks and future problems.
What Happens on Transfer Day
At the appointment, IDs are checked and the process begins. After the fees are paid, the parties sign before the official. The new deed is then issued in the buyer's name and handed over, transferring ownership officially.
Points to Watch
Always check for liens, mortgages or annotations on the deed record beforehand, confirm the seller is the true owner, and make payment through the bank on record. For safe guidance in your title and surveying processes, Armet Emlak & Harita is here: (0242) 417 72 72 · armetinsaatemlakharita.com