At Cypria Properties, we believe informed buyers make the best decisions. This guide explains everything you need to know about North Cyprus property deeds to ensure a secure investment.
What is a TRNC Title Deed?
- TRNC stands for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the official name of the country since 1983.
- All property deeds issued in North Cyprus are TRNC Title Deeds, fully recognized and protected by the government.
- These deeds provide legal ownership rights under North Cyprus law.
Key Fact:
The TRNC government treats all modern deeds equally, regardless of the land’s historical classification.
Shared vs. Individual Title Deeds
Freehold Ownership in North Cyprus
Nearly all properties are freehold (except leasehold properties in the village of Karmi).
1. Shared Title Deeds
- Previously common for apartments and some villa complexes.
- Owners share rights to the land (e.g., 1/100th of a development’s plot).
- New 2024 Rule: Must eventually be converted to individual deeds.
- Mortgage Note: Banks only lend on individual deeds.
2. Individual Title Deeds
- Exclusive ownership of both the property and its land.
- Required for bank financing.
- The most secure form of ownership.
Our Advice:
Always verify whether a property has a shared or individual deed before purchasing.
“Deed Pending” – What Does It Mean?
- Common for new builds where final government checks are pending.
- An interim “Kat Irtifak” deed is issued during construction.
- Caution: Older properties (10+ years) without deeds may have legal issues.
Cypria Properties Policy:
We only list properties with deeds or strong prospects of imminent issuance.
Resale vs. New Build Properties
| Factor | Resale Property | New Build Property |
|---|---|---|
| Deed Status | Often already transferred | Usually pending completion |
| VAT | Typically paid (5%) | Buyer usually pays |
| Furnishings | Often included | Usually unfurnished/Furnished |
| Cost | Generally lower | Higher (premium build quality) |
Tip: Resale properties with “Deed in Owner’s Name, VAT Paid” usually mean lower upfront costs.
Understanding Historical Land Classifications
While modern TRNC deeds don’t distinguish land history, some buyers inquire about pre-1974 status:
1. Pre-74 Turkish Title (“Turk Mali”)
- Land owned by Turkish Cypriots before 1974.
- Rare and premium-priced, mainly in urban areas.
2. Exchange Land (“Esdeger”)
- Land swapped for property lost in South Cyprus.
- Most common and legally secure for new developments.
Compensation Note:
The Immovable Property Commission handles any historic claims—not individual buyers.
Turkish Property Terms to Know
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Turk Mali | Turkish Title Land |
| Kocan/Tapu | Title Deed |
| Esdeger | Exchange Land |
| TMD | Non-Turkish Title Land |
Why Choose Cypria Properties?
✔ Transparent Listings: We clearly state deed status for every property.
✔ Legal Security: All transactions are vetted by trusted lawyers.
Contact Us for properties with secure, verified title deeds.
