In recent years, the purchase and sale of contract-based properties in Tabriz have become increasingly common due to population growth, rising real estate prices, and a growing interest in land and property investment. Many real estate transactions in this city are still conducted through private contracts (Qoulnameh), meaning ownership is transferred solely based on an informal agreement between buyer and seller, without an official deed being issued in the buyer’s name. While this process may seem quick and straightforward, it can actually lead to significant legal and financial risks for both parties. With the introduction of new registration systems and the government’s emphasis on transparency in the real estate market, the process of officially registering contract-based properties in Tabriz has entered a new phase.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the legal steps for official registration, the role of new digital platforms, and the importance of consulting a real estate lawyer in Tabriz

Definition and Importance of Contract-Based Properties and Official Registration  
A contract-based property is one where ownership has been transferred solely through a private contract between buyer and seller, without an official deed in the buyer’s name. While such transactions are popular in Tabriz due to their speed and simplicity, the lack of an official deed exposes the owner to serious risks: the property could be sold to multiple buyers, legal disputes may arise, obtaining loans or banking facilities becomes impossible, and the property could even be seized if there are conflicting claims. Official registration and obtaining a single-page deed are the only ways to guarantee secure and legal ownership.

Legal Steps for Official Registration of Contract-Based Properties in Tabriz  
The process of official registration involves several key steps, each requiring careful attention:

Checking the Property’s Registration Status:  
  The first step is to inquire about the property’s registration status at the Registry Office. This determines whether the property has a registration record and if it is mortgaged, seized, or has any legal disputes. If there is no registration record, initial registration procedures must be completed.

Preparing Identity and Ownership Documents:
  The owner or buyer must prepare identity documents (copyright, national card) and ownership documents (contract, sale agreement, payment receipts, etc.). For jointly owned properties, documents for all partners are required.

Obtaining Inquiries from Various Authorities:  
  To register the property officially, inquiries must be made to the municipality, tax office, natural resources department, and other relevant bodies. These inquiries check land use, absence of disputes, debts, or construction violations, and compliance with national and urban land regulations.

Attending the Notary Office and Drafting the Official Deed:
  After preparing all documents and obtaining the necessary inquiries, both parties must visit a notary office. At this stage, the official deed is drafted and signed, and legal ownership is transferred to the buyer. After registration, the Registry Office issues a single-page deed in the buyer’s name.

The Role of New Registration Platforms in Tabriz
Recently, new digital platforms have been launched to increase transparency and prevent unofficial transactions and fraud. The National Real Estate Transaction Registration System and the Registry Office’s digital platform are the main tools for registering and tracking real estate transactions. These systems allow property owners and buyers to check the property’s status, view ownership history, register official contracts, and track their case status. Using these platforms reduces the risks of contract-based transactions, prevents fraudulent sales, and increases legal security for all parties.

Common Challenges in Official Registration of Contract-Based Properties  
Several obstacles can complicate the official registration process in Tabriz:

Lack of Registration Record or Conflicting Claims:
  Many contract-based properties lack a registration record or have been transferred informally. Proving ownership and completing initial registration can be time-consuming and complex.

Boundary Disputes and Encroachment:  
  In many cases, property boundaries are unclear or overlap with neighboring lands, leading to legal disputes and delays in registration.

Land Use Issues and Unauthorized Changes: 
  Some properties have undergone unauthorized land use changes or have uses that conflict with urban plans, which can block official registration and require legal follow-up and permits.

Debts or Property Seizure:  
  If the property has debts to the municipality, tax office, or is seized due to previous owner’s debts, registration cannot proceed until these issues are resolved.

Multiple Contract-Based Transactions and Disputes: 
  Sometimes, a single property has been sold to multiple people via private contracts, resulting in complex legal disputes that require judicial and expert intervention.

The Role of a Real Estate Lawyer in Tabriz in Official Registration 
Facing these challenges, the presence of a real estate lawyer in Tabriz is invaluable. A lawyer familiar with registration laws, municipal regulations, and administrative procedures can streamline the process, assist in gathering documents, follow up on inquiries, resolve disputes, and handle boundary issues. In case of legal disputes, a real estate lawyer in Tabriz can prepare legal petitions and defend the client’s rights, expediting the process. For more information and legal support, you can visit real estate lawyer in Tabriz

Practical Recommendations for Applicants
Before purchasing a contract-based property, thoroughly check the registration and land use status.  
If there are disputes or boundary issues, consult a real estate lawyer in Tabriz before proceeding.  
Keep all documents and contracts related to the purchase and sale complete and organized.  
Obtain all necessary permits for land use changes from relevant authorities.  
Use legal advice at every stage to prevent future problems.

Conclusion 
Official registration of contract-based properties in Tabriz is a sensitive, multi-step process that requires full awareness of laws, careful documentation, and persistent follow-up. Challenges such as lack of registration, boundary disputes, conflicting claims, and land use issues can complicate the process. However, with the guidance and support of a real estate lawyer in Tabriz, these obstacles can be overcome, ensuring secure and official ownership. If you plan to invest in or buy/sell such properties in Tabriz, always verify the legal and registration status beforehand and rely on the expertise of a real estate lawyer to safeguard your investment and rights.