Turkish Real Estate Terms and Definitions Every Foreign Property Buyer Must Know
Buying property in Turkey as a foreign investor can be highly profitable — but only if you fully understand the legal terminology, ownership structure, property valuation system, and financial obligations involved in Turkish real estate transactions. This comprehensive guide explains the most important terms you must know.
Understanding real estate terminology in Turkey protects you from legal risks, prevents delays during title deed transfer, and ensures a smooth property investment process.
1. Turkish Property Classification Terms
Taşınmaz (Immovable Property)
The legal term used in official documents to describe real estate such as apartments, villas, commercial units, or land.
Bağımsız Bölüm (Independent Unit)
Refers to a legally registered independent property unit within a building or residential complex with its own title deed.
Rayiç Bedel (Municipal Value)
The municipality’s assessed value of a property used for taxation purposes. It is usually lower than the actual market value.
Ekspertiz Raporu (Property Valuation Report)
An official appraisal report required for foreign buyers. Mandatory for title deed transfer and Turkish citizenship by investment.
Gross Area (Brüt) vs Net Area
Gross (Brüt): Total enclosed space including walls, balconies, and shared building areas.
Net: The actual usable interior living space.
2. Title Deed & Ownership Terms in Turkey
A standard Turkish Title Deed (Tapu) document.
Tapu (Title Deed)
The official ownership certificate issued by the Land Registry. It proves legal ownership and outlines property details.
Kat İrtifakı (Construction Servitude)
Issued for off-plan or under-construction properties. It confirms project approval but the building is not fully completed.
Kat Mülkiyeti (Full Condominium Ownership)
The strongest form of property ownership in Turkey. Issued after construction is completed and the occupancy permit is granted.
Hisseli Tapu (Shared Title Deed)
Indicates multiple owners share the same property. Selling requires consent from all registered shareholders.
3. Legal Documents & Investment Process Terminology
Yabancı Kimlik Numarası(Foreigner ID Number)
Required for all foreign nationals purchasing real estate or opening bank accounts in Turkey.
Noter(Notary Public)
Official authority that certifies contracts, translations, and legal documents.
Vekaletname(Power of Attorney)
Allows a lawyer or legal representative to complete the property purchase on your behalf.
Satış Vaadi Sözleşmesi(Preliminary Sales Contract)
A legally binding promise of sale agreement, often used for securing off-plan investments.
DAB(Foreign Exchange Certificate)
Proves foreign currency was converted into Turkish Lira at the Central Bank before title deed transfer.
İskan(Occupancy Permit)
Confirms the building complies with regulations, approved architectural plans, and is legally habitable.
4. Financial Terms & Property Costs
Kapora(Reservation Deposit)
Deposit paid to the seller or developer to secure a property and take it off the market.
Peşinat(Down Payment)
The initial upfront payment (usually a percentage of the price) made during contract signing.
Tapu Harcı(Title Deed Tax)
Property transfer tax paid to the government upon receiving the title deed (usually 4%).
Aidat(Maintenance Fee)
Monthly fee paid in residential complexes for shared services like pools, security, and cleaning.
DASK(Earthquake Insurance)
Mandatory natural disaster insurance. Required to set up electricity and water utilities.
İpotek(Mortgage / Lien)
A mortgage or legal lien registered on the title deed, usually by banks for installment purchases.
Before buying property in Istanbul, always conduct legal due diligence to check for debts, liens (İpotek), or encumbrances registered on the title deed.
Why Understanding Turkish Real Estate Terminology Matters
Whether you are buying property for rental income, investing off-plan, or applying for Turkish citizenship, knowing these terms reduces risk and increases your negotiation power.
Need expert guidance?
Prime Property Partner supports international investors through every step of buying property in Turkey.