Step-by-Step Guide: Buying Property in Turkey for Foreign Buyers (2025 Update)
Buying property in Turkey continues to gain popularity among international investors, retirees, and lifestyle buyers. With its beautiful coastline, vibrant culture, and affordable real estate, Turkey is one of the most attractive property destinations in Europe and the Middle East.
This step-by-step guide is designed to help foreign buyers understand the current property purchase process in Turkey, including 2025 legal updates and insider tips from industry professionals.
⸻
1. Define Your Budget and Property Goals
Start by determining your full budget, not just the purchase price. Don’t forget to include:
•Taxes and legal fees
•Real estate agent commission
•Utility and title deed transfer costs
•Optional expenses like furniture, renovations, or a residence permit application
Understanding your financial limits helps target the right property type — whether you’re after a luxury villa in Kalkan, an Istanbul apartment, or a seafront investment property.
⸻
2. Work with a Licensed Real Estate Agent
Working with a licensed and experienced real estate agency is crucial for a smooth, secure transaction.
At House and Home Turkey, we are:
•Legally registered with the Turkish Ministry of Trade (Ticaret Bakanlığı)
•Fully licensed to operate in real estate transactions
•Experienced in working with foreign buyers
•Known for our transparent process, exclusive listings, and end-to-end service
We guide you through the entire process — from initial search to final tapu (title deed) delivery — with legal compliance and personal care.
⸻
3. Visit Properties or Schedule Virtual Tours
After narrowing down your preferred region and property style, you can:
•Visit shortlisted properties in person
•Or request a virtual viewing if you’re abroad
Evaluate properties based on:
•Location and surrounding infrastructure
•Build quality and age
•Investment potential or rental yield
•Title deed status and legal background
⸻
4. Obtain a Turkish Tax Number (Vergi Numarası)
To buy property in Turkey, you’ll need a tax number, which is easy to get from any local tax office. You only need your passport, and your real estate agent can assist you.
⸻
5. Open a Turkish Bank Account
A Turkish bank account is necessary for:
•Paying the seller
•Covering legal and tax fees
•Handling official payments
To open an account, you’ll need:
•Passport
•Turkish tax number
•Proof of address from your home country (e.g., utility bill or bank statement)
⸻
6. Sign a Sales Agreement and Pay a Deposit
When you decide on a property:
•A sales contract (satış sözleşmesi) is signed between you and the seller
•A deposit (usually 10%) is paid to secure the property
This contract outlines the sale price, payment schedule, and conditions of the deal.
⸻
7. Hire a Lawyer (Optional but Recommended)
While not legally required, hiring a qualified lawyer is strongly recommended. Your lawyer can:
•Perform due diligence
•Check for debts, mortgages, or zoning violations
•Verify the seller’s ownership
•Review contracts and protect your rights
⸻
8. Transfer of Ownership – Title Deed (Tapu)
Once everything is in order, the official title deed transfer takes place at the Land Registry Office (Tapu Dairesi). The buyer and seller — or their legal representatives — must be present.
At this stage:
•The remaining balance is paid
•Taxes and fees are settled
•The tapu is issued in your name
You are now the legal owner of the property.
⸻
9. Pay Taxes and Legal Fees
Here’s what you can expect to pay:
•Title deed transfer tax: 4% of the declared property value
•Real estate agent commission: Legally capped at 2% + VAT (total 2.36%) from the buyer
•Compulsory earthquake insurance (DASK)
•Notary and sworn translator fees (if needed)
📌 Important: Do not pay more than 2% + VAT in agent commission — this is the legal maximum in Turkey for buyers.
⸻
10. Register Utilities in Your Name
Once the property is legally yours, you’ll need to:
•Open or transfer utility accounts (electricity, water, gas, internet)
•Pay small connection/setup fees
Your agent can assist with all of these formalities.
⸻
11. Optional: Apply for a Residence Permit
Foreign buyers are eligible to apply for a Turkish residence permit based on property ownership.
✅ As of 2024–2025, the minimum required property value is $250,000 USD (confirmed through an official valuation report).
This permit:
•Allows you to legally reside in Turkey
•Is renewable annually
•Can lead to long-term residency or even Turkish citizenship (under separate rules)
⸻
Why Foreign Buyers Choose Turkey
✔ Property prices are affordable compared to Europe
✔ Residency and lifestyle benefits
✔ Strong holiday rental income potential
✔ Diverse landscapes: beaches, cities, and mountains
✔ Welcoming environment and investor-friendly regulations
⸻
Ready to Find Your Property in Turkey?
At House and Home Turkey, we make it easy for international buyers to find the right property — whether it’s a luxury coastal villa, a smart investment apartment, or a tranquil countryside retreat.
We handle:
•Legal checks and documents
•Property tours and virtual visits
•Negotiation, title deed transfer, and utility setup
•After-sales support, rentals, and even residence permit guidance
👉 Contact us today to begin your property journey with a team you can trust.
