Can You Buy a Home in a Project Without a Title Deed Yet? Sales Promise and Risks

Short answer: Yes, you can buy a home in a project whose title deed has not yet been issued; however, at this stage the buyer acquires not ownership but the right to demand transfer of the title. To strengthen this right, the contract should be drawn up at a notary and, if possible, annotated on the title deed.

Why isn't the title deed issued right away?

The title deed for an independent unit is issued after the building is completed and condominium ownership (kat mülkiyeti) is established. While construction is ongoing, either on the plot or if a construction easement (kat irtifakı) has been established, a sales promise contract is drawn up for buyers. This contract is a preliminary agreement; it does not transfer ownership by itself, it gives the right to demand transfer of the title.

Three steps that provide security

1. A contract in notarial form. Real-estate sales promise contracts are subject to official form; mere certification of signatures is not enough.
2. Annotation on the title deed. It makes the contract visible in the land registry and strengthens the buyer's right against those who later acquire the property. The annotation's duration is limited; as a rule it is five years.
3. Proof of payment. Document every payment with a bank receipt and a payment receipt.

What to check

• In whose name is the plot? Is the landowner the developer, or is it a land-share arrangement?
• Permit and zoning. The building permit and conformity with the project.
• Mortgage and attachment. Whether there are annotations on the plot.
• Delivery date and late-delivery penalty. These must be clear in the contract.

For a current project example, see our Meridien Nova payment plan article.

Frequently asked questions

Is a project without a title deed risky for investment?

The risk varies with the quality of the contract and the developer. For details, see our article developer check.

Is the annotation mandatory?

It is not mandatory, but it gives the buyer serious security.

Is there a difference if the buyer is a foreigner?

A sales promise contract is not a transfer of title; for a foreign buyer, the title transfer is what counts in citizenship or residence permit calculations. For details, see our guide for foreign buyers.

Sources: tkgm.gov.tr · mevzuat.gov.tr · tnb.org.tr

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice; legislation and practice may change. Compiled as of October 2026. For your specific case, contact us or consult a lawyer.