How the Property Buying Process Works in Turkey: Step-by-Step with Professional Support

How the property buying process works in Turkey: step‑by‑step with professional support

Purchasing property in Turkey as a foreign buyer is a legally regulated and transparent procedure. With professional guidance, the process is structured, secure, and efficient.

Below is an overview of the official steps involved in purchasing property in Turkey.

1. Property selection and legal due diligence

Before proceeding with a transaction, the following checks are essential:

• Verification of ownership rights
• Confirmation that there are no liens, mortgages, or legal encumbrances
• Review of construction permits and occupancy status (for new developments)
• Confirmation that the property is located in a zone where foreign ownership is permitted

Foreign nationals are not allowed to purchase property in military or strategically restricted areas.

Professional real estate companies typically conduct these checks on behalf of their clients.

⚠️ No foreign ownership in military or strategic zones – always verify location eligibility.

2. Preparation of required documentation

Foreign buyers must obtain:

• A Turkish Tax Number (Vergi Numarası)
• An official property valuation report (mandatory for foreign buyers)
• Compulsory earthquake insurance (DASK)

The valuation report must be issued by a licensed valuation company and is required for the title deed application.

📋 Licensed valuation report is mandatory for all foreign buyers – valid for Tapu application.

3. Financial arrangements and tax payment

The title deed transfer tax (Tapu Harcı) is 4% of the declared property value.

By law, the tax is shared between buyer and seller, although in practice the distribution may vary by agreement.

Secure transfer of funds and proper documentation of payment are essential parts of the transaction process.

💰 Tapu tax: 4% of declared value – legally shared, but negotiation determines who pays. Always document the agreement.

4. Title deed registration (Tapu)

The transaction is finalized at the Land Registry Office (Tapu Müdürlüğü).

• Both parties (or their legally authorized representatives) must be present
• A sworn translator is required if the buyer does not speak Turkish
• Ownership is legally transferred at the moment of official registration

The buyer receives the Tapu (Title Deed Certificate) upon completion.

✅ Ownership transfers only at Tapu registration – certificate in hand = legally yours.

5. Post-purchase procedures

After receiving the Tapu, the new owner may:

• Transfer utility subscriptions (electricity, water, gas where applicable)
• Arrange property management services if needed
• Maintain insurance coverage

Important legal notes

• Foreign individuals may own up to 30 hectares of land in Turkey.
• In a given district, foreign ownership may not exceed 10% of the total land area.
• A property transaction is legally completed only after registration at the Land Registry Office.

Conclusion

The property acquisition process in Turkey is officially regulated and transparent. With proper professional support, foreign buyers can complete their purchase securely and in full compliance with Turkish law.

⚠️ Never sign before due diligence – work with licensed agents and lawyers.

Source: Republic of Turkey Land Registry Office · General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre · February 2026