Turkish Real Estate Terms and Definitions for Buyers to Know

Buying a property in another country can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the language. Understanding the key terms and phrases used in the process not only eases communication but also helps you make informed decisions and complete the transactions with confidence. This guide covers Turkish real estate terms, definitions, and why they matter in the buying process.

Turkish Terminology Related to Property Classification and Features

Taşınmaz, in other words, immovable, is used to describe a property in a legal context, whether it is a house or land. It can be used in sales contracts or title deed records.

Bağımsız Bölüm is also another legal term used for property classification, describing an independent unit. It is a separately registered, individually owned unit within a building or complex that has its own title deed. While it essentially means property units like an apartment in a block, a hotel room, or a villa in a complex, learning what it means helps avoid confusion later.

Brüt (gross) vs Net (net) area: Many listings for property for sale in Turkey include gross area measurements, which cover the total enclosed space of the property, including the walls inside and exterior features like terraces. Meanwhile, net area describes the total usable space you can benefit from.

Rayiç Bedel, or municipal assessed value, is the officially assessed value of a property, determined by the municipality or authorized committee for taxation or insurance. It is not the same thing as market value or sales value, and is not used in transactions.

Ekspertiz Raporu, or appraisal report, is the official result of Gayrimenul Değerleme, which is the property valuation in Turkey. An official real estate valuation report is prepared by an authorized appraiser, determining the value of the property based on legal status, location, market data, and its physical characteristics. This formal report is needed for mortgages, transactions, and citizenship.

Another useful term is Kelepir, which is used for bargain properties in Turkey. These properties are offered at a price below the actual or market value, usually due to the seller wanting a quick closure.

Turkish Real Estate Terms to Know Before Buying

These terms related to ownership are important to make an informed decision.

One of the most important terms is Tapu, or title deed in Turkey, which is a valid proof of ownership issued by the Turkish Land Registry. This official document shows who legally owns the property and under what rights. It is always part of your transactions, whether for due diligence or to complete the transfer.

Kat İrtifakı, construction servitude or condominium easement, is a type of title deed issued for off-plan properties that shows the project is approved and under construction.

Once the project is completed and an occupancy permit is obtained, it converts to Kat Mülkiyeti, condominium ownership, which is the most complete form of ownership.

Another relevant term is the Hisseli Tapu, shared title deed, where more than one person owns the same property with similar or different shares. During due diligence, coming across a shared title deed means each owner has a say on the property’s sale, which can result in delays.

İntifa Hakkı, usufruct rights, is also another term related to property ownership in Turkey. This legal right allows one to use and benefit from a property that belongs to another.

Usufruct permits one to live in or rent out a property, while the owner of Çıplak Mülkiyet, bare ownership, holds the right to sell.

Turkish Real Estate Investment Terminology​: Documentation and Legal Process

When purchasing a property in Turkey, there are key terms to familiarize yourself with related to paperwork, contracts, and procedures.

YKN (Yabancı Kimlik Numarası) or foreigner identification number is an official ID number required in the purchase process for various steps, including registering ownership.

Noter, or the Notary Public, is a state-authorized official who verifies, certifies, and formalizes legal documents for validity. During the property investment process, many critical documents need to be notarized for recognition.

Vekaletname, or Power of Attorney in Turkey, is one of the most practical tools for foreign buyers who cannot be physically present. POA is a legal document designating a person to act on your behalf for specific transactions or matters, issued by a notary in Turkey or abroad.

Satış Vaddi Sözleşmesi, which means the preliminary sales contract or promise of sale contract, is a preliminary agreement between a seller and buyer for the future transaction of a specific property. While it is different from Satış Sözleşmesi, the official sale contract registered at the Land Registry, this preliminary agreement still protects the buyer’s rights, especially when registered on the title deed.

DAB (Döviz Alım Belgesi), which means Foreign Exchange Purchase Certificate, is a document issued by the bank proving that the foreign currency has been converted to Turkish lira for property purchase. This is a requirement for foreign buyers at the title deed transfer stage.

EKB (Enerji Kimlik Belgesi), or EPC (Energy Performance Certificate), is a certificate that indicates how energy-efficient a property is, whether in terms of insulation quality or overall environmental performance. In Turkey, it is a necessary document for transactions or other matters to proceed smoothly.

İskan, meaning occupancy permit or habitation certificate, is a crucial document confirming that the property is completed, complies with regulations, and is ready for residential or commercial use.

Key Financial Terms in Turkish Real Estate Transactions

These terms relate to the fees, taxes, obligations, and encumbrances tied to the properties that affect the cost or financial implications of your investments in Turkey.

Kapora is essentially the earnest money used to reserve the property in both sales and rental discussions. Buyers give earnest money to the seller to show a sincere interest in the property before the sales agreement.

It is conceptually different than Peşinat, a down payment, which is at or near the signing of the official contract and always a part of the total purchase price.

There is also Depozito, meaning security deposit, which is usually part of rental agreements, used as a safeguard for damage.

Tapu Harcı, or title deed transfer tax, is an official fee paid when property ownership is transferred to the buyer.

Aidat, or maintenance fee, is a monthly fee paid to cover the shared expenses of a building or complex. Since it’s a regular fee, when buying a property in a luxury complex, checking the amount is important to avoid surprise costs.

DASK is the mandatory earthquake insurance for buildings in Turkey, necessary for property transactions and utility connections.

Çevre ve Temizlik Vergisi, meaning Environmental Cleaning Tax, is a municipal tax paid by property owners for the environmental sanitation services provided by the city.

İpotek is a lien on the property, typically used as collateral for a loan. The existence of any liens can be checked on the title deed during due diligence.

Investing in real estate in Turkey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you can avoid mistakes foreign buyers make and take confident steps in your transaction. With a clear understanding and transparent approach to the process, you'll be well-positioned to make informed investment decisions.

Understanding real estate terminology is just the first step; having the right support during your investment matters too. At TEKCE Real Estate, we guide international buyers through every step of the process with transparency and proven expertise.

RELATED PAGES

Turkish Tax System: Up-to-date Information and Tips

A Complete Guide to Invest in Turkish Commercial Properties

Prime Turkish Destinations for Real Estate Investment

Expats's Guide for Getting a Residence Permit in Turkey