Understanding Property Ownership Costs in Turkey
Why Buyers Underestimate the Cost of Ownership
Most buyers, when planning to purchase an apartment in Turkey or another country, only consider the purchase price.
But within a year, it becomes clear: owning real estate is a system of regular expenses, not a one-time deal.
A typical mistake: «I'll buy now and figure it out later».
This is how a «cheap purchase» turns into an expensive mistake.
What Makes Up the Cost of Owning an Apartment Abroad
Regardless of the country, expenses almost always include:
- property tax;
- maintenance fees for the building or complex (aidat);
- utilities;
- insurance;
- periodic maintenance and repairs.
The difference between countries lies in the size and predictability of these expenses.
Property Tax: Why Turkey Stands Out
In Turkey, property tax remains one of the lowest in the region.
Key points:
- tax is calculated based on cadastral value;
- the amount is usually small compared to Europe;
- tax growth is limited by law.
📌 This is why real estate in Turkey remains attractive for long-term ownership, not just resale.
Aidat: Key Expense in Complexes
Aidat is a monthly fee for maintaining the complex.
It may include:
- security;
- swimming pool;
- gardener;
- elevators;
- cleaning;
- management.
Why Aidat Matters
In 2026, buyers increasingly focus not on the size of the aidat, but on:
- transparency of expenses;
- quality of management;
- satisfaction of neighbors;
- whether infrastructure operates year-round, not just in summer.
👉 Today, management directly affects the price and liquidity of the property.
Utilities: No Surprises If There Is No Overuse
Utility expenses depend on:
- apartment size;
- number of residents;
- use of air conditioning and heating.
In Turkey:
- electricity and water are metered;
- no "hidden" charges;
- major bill increases occur only with heavy use in summer or winter.
📌 Under normal conditions, utilities are predictable and controllable.
Property Insurance: Mandatory and Optional
In Turkey, mandatory earthquake insurance (DASK) is in effect.
It is:
- affordable;
- issued automatically;
- mandatory for transactions.
Additionally, many owners get:
- property insurance;
- liability insurance.
These are small expenses that significantly reduce risks.
Additional Expenses Often Overlooked
When owning an apartment abroad, it is important to consider:
- minor repairs;
- updating furniture and appliances;
- periodic service work;
- rental management (if renting out).
How Not to Miscalculate Expenses
Before buying, it's important to ask:
- what the real aidat was over the last 12 months;
- who manages the building.
These answers show the true cost of ownership.
Why Expenses Are Easier to Predict with RestProperty
The cost of owning property depends not only on the country, but also on the quality of property management.
RestProperty supports clients not only at the purchase stage but also after the deal, helping to evaluate in advance:
- real aidat;
- expense structure of the complex;
- management model;
- owner discipline.
Important:
The company has its own rental and management department, working exclusively with RestProperty client properties.
We regularly receive requests from "outside" to rent an apartment, but our rules remain unchanged — we work only with properties purchased through our company.
This ensures legal purity, transparent calculations, and property security. This service is part of the purchase value, not an additional service.
RestProperty holds a valid state license
Taşınmaz Ticareti Yetki Belgesi №0702893, issued by the Ministry of Trade of Turkey on 13.12.2023.
search: Restproperty, Antalya region
🔑 Key Takeaway
The cost of owning an apartment abroad is no surprise if calculated before purchase, not after.
In Turkey, ownership remains:
- relatively inexpensive;
- predictable;
- profitable with the right property choice.
But only if:
- management is transparent;
- documents are correct;
- expenses are calculated fairly.
