Türkiye plans to make its “Secure Payment System,” currently mandatory in second‑hand vehicle sales, compulsory for real estate transactions beginning May 1, 2026.
Real estate payments are often made directly between buyers and sellers, a practice officials say increases the risk of unregistered transactions, fraud and forgery. Carrying large amounts of cash also exposes parties to theft.
The ministry said the expanded requirement aims to reduce off‑the‑books activity and ensure that money transfers occur in a secure environment. A draft amendment to the Regulation on Real Estate Trade has been prepared to implement the change.
Under the proposal, payments made in cash, by bank transfer or via electronic funds transfer would need to be processed through the system, which ensures that the sale price changes hands simultaneously with the transfer of property ownership.
The draft has been circulated to relevant public institutions and industry representatives for consultation, and officials plan to finalize the regulation after receiving feedback.
