What You Should Know About Turkish, Equivalent, and Allocation Title Deeds

Many people considering investing in real estate in Northern Cyprus may experience indecision due to the different types of title deeds they encounter. These title deeds are referred to as "koçan" in Northern Cyprus and appear in three main types: Turkish Title Deed, Equivalent Title Deed, and Allocation Title Deed.

In this article, we will examine each type of title deed in detail, explaining the differences and their legal guarantees.

What is a Title Deed?

A title deed is an official document that certifies the ownership of a property. This document, known as "deed" in other countries, is issued under the name “Real Estate Title Deed” in Northern Cyprus and is under state protection.

Commonly Used Title Deed Types in Northern Cyprus

1. Turkish Title Deed

Turkish Title Deed is the title deed issued for properties owned by Turkish Cypriots before 1974. This type of title deed is an official document certifying that the ownership of the property belongs to Turkish citizens. After 1974, following the division of Cyprus, these types of title deeds are used as documents that keep records of properties owned by Turkish citizens.

2. Equivalent Title Deed

Equivalent Title Deed is the deed issued based on a regulation that emerged from the abandonment of properties belonging to Greeks before 1974 due to war. After 1974, Turkish Cypriots who migrated from the south to the north received equivalent properties in Northern Cyprus in exchange for their abandoned properties in the south. These title deeds officially document that property owners have given up their assets in Southern Cyprus and have received these properties in return.

3. Allocation Title Deed

Allocation Title Deed is the title deed given by the TRNC state to the local population or certain groups, usually in exchange for public service, military service, or social services. These types of title deeds document the ownership of properties allocated by the state. Property owners use these properties under the conditions set by the state.

Is the Type of Title Deed Specified?

No. On the title deed of each property, it only states “Real Estate Title Deed.” The type of title deed is not explicitly written on the document. However, the relevant records have been archived by the Land Registry Office.

Which Title Deed is Safer?

According to the laws of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, all types of title deeds are under state protection. All three title deeds are considered valid in terms of notary transactions, buying and selling processes, and land registry records. Therefore, regardless of which type of title deed you invest in, your property is under legal protection.

Conclusion: You Can Invest Safely

Knowing the type of title deed when purchasing real estate in Northern Cyprus allows you to make an informed and conscious decision. However, the most important thing to remember is: No matter what type of title deed it is, the TRNC state has officially protected these properties.

You can contact our expert consultants to identify the most suitable property for your investment together.