Property Buyer’s Guide to Turkey
Buying property in Turkey is a straightforward process, though it has its own unique characteristics.
Currently, we focus on the southern Mediterranean region (Alanya, Antalya).
This guide will safely walk you through every stage of your investment.
1. Can a foreigner buy property in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of the EU and most countries can buy real estate with almost no restrictions. The only limit is a total area of 30 hectares.
- Apartments and flats
- Detached houses and villas
- Building plots
- Agricultural land (subject to special conditions)
2. What documents do you need?
Formalities are kept to a minimum. Here is what you need:
Passport / ID
Essential for the purchase and opening a bank account. This is the only document you must provide personally.
Tax ID (VKN)
The Turkish Tax Identification Number. We can obtain it online or at the tax office. Required for deeds and banking.
Bank Account
Required to transfer funds and obtain the DAP document (mandatory for title deed transfer).
Photos & Translations
Biometric photos and a sworn translation of your passport are handled on-site.
3. Key Property Documents
Safety comes first. We always verify the legal status:
TAPU KAYDI
The Title Deed Record. Shows the current owner, mortgages, debts, and acquisition history.
EKSPER RAPORU
Appraisal Report. Mandatory for citizenship applications. Since July 2024, it is not required for standard purchases.
DAP
Foreign Exchange Document. Proof that funds were converted to Lira. Without this, the Land Registry will not accept the application.
DASK & KONUT POLİÇESİ
Mandatory earthquake insurance (DASK) and comprehensive home insurance (flood, fire, theft).
TAXES & FEES
Title Deed Tax is 4% (customarily paid by the buyer). Plus fixed administrative fees (Döner Sermaye).
4. Step-by-Step Purchase Process
1
Property Selection
We view 3–5 properties. We focus on location, view, maintenance fees (aidat), and building condition.
2
Reservation
You pay a blocking deposit (1,000–5,000 EUR). You always receive a written receipt (makbuz).
3
Sales Contract
We draft the terms. Note that international transfers can take 2 to 20 days depending on the bank.
4
Formalities (Bank, VKN)
We open a bank account, get your Tax ID, and process the DAP document.
5
Final at TAPU Office
Once approved, we meet at the Land Registry. Ownership transfer happens the same day. Congratulations, you are an owner!
5. After Purchase – What’s Next?
We don't leave you alone. As your representative, we assist with:
- Emlak Kaydı: Registering the property at the municipality (for annual property tax).
- Utilities (Abonelikler): Transferring electricity and water meters to your name.
- Management: Introducing you to the building management (WhatsApp groups, maintenance fees).
- Insurance: Registering the property for insurance immediately after receiving the title deed.
6. Should you negotiate the price?
Yes, but reasonably. This is not a "bazaar". Opportunities depend on demand and the seller's urgency. For cash payments or early construction stages, you can sometimes save thousands of euros, but massive discounts are not guaranteed.
7. Why use a real estate agent?
The Turkish market differs from the European one. An experienced agent is your safety net:
- Knows the legal history of offers
- Minimizes exchange rate losses
- Organizes transfers and accommodation
- Negotiates based on real market value
- Represents you in government offices
- Manages all documentation
- Identifies technical building issues
8. Our After-Sales Services (Home Service)
We take care of your investment comprehensively:
🛠 Lock change & Technical check
🛋 Furnishing & Renovation
📝 Rental Service Management
⚖️ Inheritance Procedures
🆔 Residence Permit Assistance
🇹🇷 Sworn Translations
