When deciding to buy a property abroad no one does it on a whim. Buying a property abroad is a very important life event and especially for first-timers, the buying process in Turkey can be daunting. The idea of buying a property in Turkey to live in and change your lifestyle or having the desire to make a lucrative investment all starts with understanding the buying process.

In your own home country you are probably already familiar with the property buying process, however, the process of buying your dream home or investment in Turkey is completely different and we advise you to learn the laws and how the property market works in Turkey.

As a popular real estate company Turkey Property Guru is an independent property, lifestyle & investment specialist with over 20 years of experience, and we feel we are in a good position to give the best advice and walk you through the buying process and guide you to professionals who can handle the legalities.

However, we also want you to be aware and feel in control of your purchase and with this, in mind, we provide articles with everything you need to know from research to organizing your finances and selecting your property. As well as, after-sales information on tax laws and annual running costs. Our service does not stop after your purchase as we continue to offer our service and advice so you can easily manage and enjoy your property for many years.

Our most important advice is for you to do your research and the more research you do the more you will feel informed and in control giving you the peace of mind and satisfaction you have selected the property that is right for you.

It's a good idea to buy a notebook and use it as a journal to make notes and list any questions to ask us that come to mind. This journal will be very useful if in the future you decide to sell your property as it will contain everything about your property purchase.

It is also a good idea to set up a new folder on your computer to save links to web pages of potential properties and anything interesting you find while researching.

If you are a first-time buyer we highly recommend you read all the articles and learn as much as you can about the property buying process in Turkey.

Property Buying Process in Turkey

What happens next after you have selected your perfect Turkish property and have your finances ready? Once you are ready to start the buying process we at Turkey Property Guru will double-check the seller's paperwork to make sure everything is 100% correct and up to date. This usually means firstly checking the title deeds detail match the details at the Tapu (land registry) office and also making sure there are no debts or liens on the property and that the property has a habitation certificate

If the seller is open to offers we will convey your offer to the seller and wait for their response. Once you and the seller have accepted the offer the buying process can begin and at this point, you can source your own lawyers and translators or we can recommend a list of independent lawyers and translators.

Once the terms and conditions of the contract and any payment plan have been agreed a contract is drawn up and a deposit to secure the property will be taken. These days there is no need for Military Check as this is now abolished and foreign investors have the same rights as Turkish buyers.

Registering your Tapu

As there is no Military check process requirement transferring the Tapu (Title Deeds) is an easy process and can be carried out in a day at the Title Deeds office. At the time of transferring the title deeds to you proof of earthquake insurance (DASK) will be needed. Keep in mind to renew the DASK every year as this is a legal requirement for all properties in Turkey.

If for some reason you can't be in the country to attend the Tapu (Title Deeds) office to transfer the title deeds into your name it is possible for you to give a power of attorney to your solicitor or third party to sign on your behalf.

Once you have your Title Deeds it is time to change the utilities into your name and we can assist you with this as well as point you to the right shops if you need furniture for your new home. 

COST OF BUYING PROPERTY IN TURKEY

Apart from the actual purchase price of the property, you will need to set aside money for legal purchase costs including the lawyer fee, taxes, translation, and sales agency fees. Naturally, lawyer and translator fees will depend on who you choose to use.

However, as a rough guide, we advise you to add around 8.5% to the purchase price to cover all fees and legal charges.

Please note currently as of 1st January 2021 the title deed transfer tax is 4%.

Earthquake Insurance (DASK) is compulsory and will need to be shown at the Title Deeds Office at the time of transferring the title deed to you. The rate for earthquake insurance is set by the government and will depend on the square meters of the property.

Keep in mind also small deposits that will be paid to the utility companies for utilities such as Electric, Water, Internet, and Telephone.

Frequently Asked Questions The Title Deed

The charge for getting a title deed, also known as a Turkish TAPU, is 4% of the property value. It is a legal document that transfers property ownership from one person to another.

Commission Fees for Real Estate Agents

The commission fee for a real estate agent is generally 3% of the property value. While it is a reasonable price, you are free to negotiate it.

Can a foreigner buy Turkish real estate?

As part of obtaining a Turkish passport through a real estate investment, foreigners can purchase real estate across Turkey, excluding military areas.

Why are properties so cheap in Turkey?

Since Turkish banks have recently rolled out mortgage programs, the Turkish real estate market is still in its initial phase. Moreover, owing to the Turkish Government’s Citizenship by Investment program, the Turkish real estate market is a relatively economical investment.

Is Turkey good for real estate?

Turkish real estate prices are comparatively cheaper and the market continues to double in value every year. Therefore, investing in Turkish real estate is definitely a profitable choice. Investors can also choose to invest in Turkish luxury real estate on the basis of their requirements.

Where is the best place to purchase property in Turkey?

The Turkish Riviera real estate market is one of the best places where you can invest your foreign capital in the country.

Does buying property in Turkey give you citizenship?

Yes, you can get Turkish citizenship and a Turkish passport for yourself, your spouse, and your children under the age of 18. The criteria for this is purchasing a property for at least $400,000.

How long can you stay in Turkey if you own a property?

A foreigner can stay in Turkey for 90 days within 180 days, regardless of whether they own a property. However, foreigners with a residency permit can stay in Turkey for longer than 90 days.

Can I live in Turkey if I buy a property?

Foreigners who acquire property in Turkey can obtain a residence permit, which can be renewed for specified lengths of time. They also have the opportunity to obtain a residence permit for their families.

Benefits of buying a property in Turkey:

Affordable Real Estate Prices: Turkey has some of the most affordable real estate prices in Europe. This makes it an attractive destination for those looking to purchase a property, especially as it offers excellent value for money.

Beautiful Scenery: Turkey is renowned for its beautiful scenery, with stunning beaches, picturesque mountains, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventurous mountain retreat, Turkey has something for everyone.

Great Climate: Turkey has a Mediterranean climate, which means that it enjoys long, hot summers and mild winters. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to escape colder climates during the winter months.

Cultural Heritage: Turkey is steeped in history and culture, with a rich architectural and cultural heritage. This makes it an exciting destination for those interested in history and architecture.

Strong Rental Market: Turkey has a strong rental market, which means that if you’re not planning to use your holiday home all year round, you can rent it out to tourists and generate additional income.

Easy Access: Turkey is easily accessible from many European cities, with a number of low-cost airlines operating flights to the country. This makes it a convenient destination for those looking to travel frequently to their holiday home.

Citizenship Program: Turkey has a citizenship program that allows foreigners who purchase property in the country to become Turkish citizens. This can be a significant benefit for those looking to relocate to Turkey permanently.