Title Registration and Its Impact on Property Valuation: Insights from Sri Lankan Valuation Professionals

Abstract

This study builds on the ongoing transition from deed-based to title registration systems in Sri Lanka, focusing on the Bim Saviya programme introduced in 1998. We investigate the impact of registered land titles on valuation and mortgage lending practices from the perspective of real estate professionals. A qualitative approach was employed, conducting semi-structured interviews with ten valuation surveyors across various organizational settings. The results show that while title registration enhances legal certainty and streamlines ownership verification, challenges persist in its practical application for property valuation. Registered titles contribute to increased marketability and improved access to mortgage lending, but inadequate property information in title certificates and limited digital access to cadastral data hinder the valuation process. These findings suggest a need for improvements in the comprehensiveness of title certificates, timely ownership updates, and accessibility of digital cadastral information to fully realize the benefits of title registration in Sri Lanka's real estate market.