TURKISH TITLE DEED (OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATE) FOR FOREIGNERS: KEY STEPS TO OBTAINING IT

1. Obtaining a Tax Number (Vergi Numarası)
   • Foreigners need a Turkish tax number to carry out any financial transactions, including property purchases.
   • This number can be obtained at the local Tax Office (Vergi Dairesi) or online (if corresponding services are available).
2. Opening a Bank Account
   • Having an account at a Turkish bank facilitates all financial transactions related to the property purchase.
   • Generally, the following documents are required to open an account:
     • Passport (translated and notarized, if required by the bank),
     • Tax number,
     • Proof of address (e.g., a utility bill).
3. Signing a Preliminary Agreement (Sale-Purchase Contract)
   • A deposit is usually paid at this stage.
   • The contract includes essential information about the property, its price, payment terms, and the date of title transfer.
   • It is advisable to consult a lawyer or a real estate agent who speaks both Russian and Turkish to review all the terms of the deal.
4. Payment of Relevant Taxes and Fees
   • Title Deed Fee (Tapu Harcı): Typically around 4% of the cadastral value of the property, shared by the buyer and/or seller according to their agreement.
   • Notary and registration fees: Vary depending on official tariffs and the specific region.
   • Translator services: If the buyer does not speak Turkish, a sworn translator is required at the Title Deed Office (Tapu) when signing documents.
5. Procedure at the Title Deed Office (Tapu ve Kadastro Müdürlüğü)
   • After paying taxes and gathering all necessary documents, the ownership transfer process takes place.
   • On the appointed day, the buyer, seller, and/or their authorized representatives must appear at the Tapu ve Kadastro (Land Registry and Cadastre) office.
   • During the signing and issuance of the Tapu (title deed), if the buyer does not speak Turkish, the presence of a sworn translator is mandatory.