Property Purchaser’s Guide

Are you a foreign national interested in purchasing property in Northern Cyprus? This article will guide you through the process and provide important information to consider. Whether you’re looking for a holiday home or an investment opportunity, understanding the procedures and requirements involved in purchasing property in Northern Cyprus is crucial. Let’s explore the steps and considerations for foreign nationals interested in buying property in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

Requirements

When you decide to purchase your first property in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, it is essential to have the necessary documents in order to complete the transaction smoothly and comply with legal requirements. The primary document you will need is either your Purchaser’s ID or Passport. These documents serve as proof of your identity and will be required at various stages of the purchasing process.

Your ID or Passport will be needed during the initial stages when you express your interest to buy a particular property. Any real estate company may request these documents to verify your identity and ensure that you are a legitimate buyer.

Once you have chosen a property and negotiated the terms of the sale, the company that involved in the buying process will make a preparation for you to sign the contract. The contract is a legally binding agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the property purchase. Your identification documents will be needed to accurately identify you as the buyer and include your details in the sale contract.

Throughout the purchasing process, your personal identity is required for other administrative procedures. These include applying and registering the property with the relevant authorities and departments, such as the Land Registry Office, Municipality, or Water Department.

When purchasing property in TRNC, it is essential to ensure that the property you are interested in is free from any mortgages, charges, or other impediments. Additionally, the seller (vendor) should be the registered true freehold owner of the property. Verifying these details will help protect your investment.

Travel and Access

Currently, all flights to Northern Cyprus must connect through Turkey. Alternatively, you can enter Northern Cyprus by crossing the border such as the Ledra Palace from Southern Cyprus. It’s important to consider these travel arrangements when planning your visit and property purchase in Northern Cyprus.

Sale Contract

Once you have chosen a property and negotiated the terms of the sale, you will need to sign a contract. After signing the contract, you must pay the Stamp Fee, which is currently set at 0.5% of the sales price, to the Tax Office within 21 days. This payment legally validates the contract. Furthermore, the sales contract must be registered at the Land Registry Office within 30 days of signing. Registering the contract secures your property rights and ensures that the property cannot be transferred or owned by third parties.

Property Registration

To register your newly purchased property, you need to apply to the relevant Municipalities, such as the Kyrenia Municipality or the Real Estate Departments of Alsancak and Catalkoy. Real estate tax calculations are based on the square meter (m2) area of your house. Additionally, you will need to pay a deposit to KIBTEK, the electricity authority, to activate your electricity connection.

For water meter connection, you must apply to the Nicosia, Kyrenia Municipality or the Water Departments of Alsancak, Karşiyaka and Catalkoy. To complete the application, you will need your stamped sales contract, the relevant Real Estate Department registration document, and official identification documentation (ID card or Passport).

Important Considerations

Foreign nationals should be cautious and consider the following:

• Check for any restrictions, mortgages, or levies on the property by consulting the relevant experts.
• Work only with reliable and registered professionals or companies in the real estate sector.
• Before signing the contract, thoroughly understand the terms and the specifications of the property.
• If the property is still under construction, verify that the contractor is qualified for the project.
• Ensure that the total sale price and all agreed-upon terms are clearly stated in the contract.

Title Deed Types

There are different types of title deeds for immovable properties in TRNC:

1. Pre-1974 Clean Freehold Title Properties: These are properties that have clean title deeds and have been owned by Turkish Cypriots, British nationals, or other foreign nationals before 1974.
2. Exchange (Equivalent) Properties: Turkish Cypriots who left properties in South Cyprus can register their losses and earn points that can be used to purchase properties in North Cyprus. These properties are typically owned by Greek Cypriots and are exchanged for the points earned.
3. Turkish Mainland Deed Properties: These properties are assigned by the TRNC government after 1974 to war veterans, their families, people invited from mainland Turkey to live and work in TRNC, and individuals who relocated from South Cyprus to North Cyprus but do not own any property.

Measurement Units

Understanding the area measurement units commonly used in Northern Cyprus can be helpful:

• 1 Dönüm = 4 Evlek = 14,400 square feet = 1,338 square meters
• 1 Evlek = 3,600 square feet = 334.5 square meters
• 1 square meter = 10.76 square feet

By following these guidelines and considering the important aspects mentioned in this user guide, foreign nationals can navigate the process of purchasing property in Northern Cyprus more efficiently and confidently. Remember to consult with professionals and trusted advisors throughout the process to ensure a successful and secure transaction.