What is a Title Deed? What Are the Types of Title Deeds?

A title deed is an official document that certifies the ownership rights of a real estate property. In Turkey, these documents are issued and recorded by the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre.

The primary importance of this document is that it legally registers the rightful owner of a property. When a house or land is purchased, the ownership is only legalized and protected through this title deed. The deed includes detailed information about the property’s physical characteristics, the identity of the owner, and the type of ownership. Obtaining and safeguarding this document is crucial for securing property rights. In Turkey, title deed procedures are regulated by strict legal processes, and correctly following these procedures plays a vital role in preventing potential legal disputes. The title deed is also used in property valuation, mortgage transactions, and tax declarations.

Types of Title Deeds

Real estate investments are a significant option for many people looking to grow their savings and secure their future. When purchasing real estate, it is especially important to examine how the property is registered on the title deed. Different types of title deeds play a critical role in both legal processes and financial transactions. For example, condominium ownership and construction servitude title deeds are commonly accepted by banks during mortgage applications. These deeds define ownership and usage rights for the independent units built on a property. Similarly, shared title deeds represent situations where the ownership is divided among multiple individuals, and there are various elements investors must consider in such cases. Therefore, knowing which type of title deed is most suitable for the property being purchased is essential for both the buyer and the seller.

Condominium Ownership Deed (Kat Mülkiyeti Tapusu)

A condominium ownership deed is an official title deed certifying the individual ownership rights of each independent unit in a building. This system, which applies to both residential and commercial spaces, secures the rights of property owners and prevents complexity in property management and usage. It helps accurately and systematically register properties ranging from apartments to office units. Thus, being informed about the advantages and procedures of obtaining a title deed is very important for property owners. Each independent unit is officially defined and legally protected with a condominium ownership deed, providing significant assurance to the owner.

Construction Servitude Deed (Kat İrtifakı Tapusu)

A construction servitude deed is a type of title deed issued at the beginning of a construction project, before any building is erected on the land. This type of deed provides security to landowners and investors by guaranteeing rights to specific independent units—such as apartments or shops—before the project begins. However, once the building is constructed, the process of transitioning from land to structure begins.

During this stage, even if the building is physically present on the land, it may still be legally registered only as land, and the necessary legal recognition for the building might not yet be completed. In this case, despite occupancy in the building, a habitation permit (iskân) cannot yet be issued. Eventually, after obtaining the habitation permit, the deed is converted into a condominium ownership deed, completing the legal recognition of the property.

Shared Title Deed 

A shared title deed is used when a real estate property is jointly owned by multiple individuals. This type of deed allows the division of property ownership into specific shares among several people.

Each co-owner holds property rights and decision-making authority proportional to their share. Shared title deeds are commonly used in inherited properties, joint investments, or family-owned properties.

This deed establishes the legal basis for joint management and usage of the property. However, it must be carefully arranged to prevent disputes between co-owners.

How Are Title Deed Transactions Conducted?

Title deed transactions are processes that officially transfer the ownership rights of a property. First, individuals who wish to acquire a house or land title must gather the necessary documents. These typically include identification, tax records, the current title deed, and, in some cases, a debt clearance letter from financial institutions.

Once the documents are complete, an application is submitted to the Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre. Officials then verify the accuracy and completeness of the documents. If everything is in order, the sale is finalized, and the new title deed is issued to the buyer.

In land transactions specifically, additional details such as zoning status and size of the land are also considered. To ensure the transaction proceeds smoothly, all documents must be accurate and complete.