Why Buy Property in Turkey ?
Turkey offers a unique blend of natural beauty, modern infrastructure, and affordable property prices. Whether you’re seeking a vacation home by the sea, a rental investment, or a permanent residence, Turkey welcomes foreign buyers with an easy and secure property buying process.
Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to help you understand how foreigners can legally and safely purchase property in Turkey.
Step 1: Decide What You Want
Before starting your property journey, define your goals clearly:
- Vacation home or investment?
- City apartment or seaside villa?
- Budget and preferred regions?
Popular areas for foreign buyers include Istanbul, Antalya, Fethiye, Bodrum, Alanya, and Izmir.
Step 2: Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent
Work with a licensed, professional real estate company that:
- Has local market knowledge
- Offers bilingual service
- Provides legal and after-sale support
A reliable agent will guide you through the entire process and protect your interests.
Step 3: Select the Right Property
Your agent will provide options based on your criteria. Once you shortlist a few properties, you can:
- Visit in person or request a virtual tour
- Get market analysis and price comparison
- Understand rental potential or resale value
Step 4: Get a Tax Number
To buy a property, you must obtain a Turkish tax number. This is a simple process:
- Apply at the local tax office with your passport
- Or your agent can do it on your behalf
Step 5: Open a Bank Account in Turkey
This is necessary for transferring funds and paying related expenses:
- Bring your passport and tax number
- Provide proof of address (from your country or Turkey)
Step 6: Legal Checks and Due Diligence
Before signing anything, your agent or lawyer will:
- Verify title deed (Tapu) status
- Ensure the property is debt-free
- Confirm building licenses and permits
- Check if the property is eligible for foreign ownership
Step 7: Sign the Sales Agreement
- Once everything is verified, a sales contract is signed between the buyer and seller. It includes:
- Payment plan
- Delivery date
- Legal terms and conditions
A deposit (typically 10%) is paid at this stage.
Step 8: Tapu (Title Deed) Transfer
This is the final and official step:
- All documents are submitted to the Land Registry Office
- Buyer and seller (or power of attorney) sign the transfer
- Buyer pays purchase taxes and fees
- Tapu is issued in the buyer’s name
Congratulations, you now legally own a property in Turkey!
Bonus: Turkish Citizenship by Investment
If you invest $400,000 USD or more in Turkish property and meet the requirements, you may apply for Turkish citizenship through the Citizenship by Investment Program.