Property Guide (Turkey)

The buying progress in Turkey is very simple and in some cases the title deeds can be obtained the same day!

Citizens of most EU countries, the United States, Canada and other countries in Asia, Latin America and Africa can freely purchase properties in Turkey.

Once you chose your property, arrange the finance, sets the contracts detailing terms and conditions as well as payment plans, paid a deposit to secure the property (typically 10-30%), then title deed transfer process can be done in a few days but we would advise a month for the entire process.

Having a solicitor to do the conveyancing is not a legal requirement, and typically the estate agent will carry out the registration duties on your behalf. Notarisation of all property sales to foreign nationals by a government-authorised interpreter is, however, a legal requirement.

Typical Costs

As a general rule of thumb, you should keep aside 9% to cover all fees and charges, but here are the typical fees you will encounter when purchasing a property in Turkey;

Transfer Tax

Investment Tax

Agent Fee

Notary Fee

Valuation Fee

Legal Translator Fee

DASK Insurance (Earthquake)

Water & Electric Registration

Finance & Mortgages

Foreign buyers typically purchase property in Turkey with cash. The source of cash can come from a variety of places; savings, inheritance, pension or re-mortgaging their UK property. Regardless of the source, it is very important to make sure the funds are readily available as the purchase can be completed in a few days or weeks and therefore having the cash locked in bonds or accounts that need notice to release can cause delays if not aborted sales.

Thankfully, in 2007 Turkish banks started offering mortgages to foreigners which opened up the opportunity to purchase a holiday home to more people. Generally speaking, the banks loan 50% to 65% of the purchase priced £100,000 or more. Although this opens up more opportunities, you will still need a large deposit of 35% to 50%.

Inheritance

Typically, wills are not made in Turkey due to Spouses and blood relatives automatically being entitled to any assets. For non-nationals wills made in your home country for assets in Turkey can only override the inheritance laws if a judge approves it. Therefore we highly recommend you have a will organised in Turkey as a foreign investor so it will be straight forward to pass your assets to your beneficiaries.

Something that entices foreign buyers to Turkey is that there are no inheritance taxes!

Rental Income

The amount of tax paid varies depending on the level of revenue generated, but starts at roughly 15%. You will need a tax number (we can assist in getting this for you).

Tax Returns are usually due in March every year with deductible expenses allowed.

Frequently Asked Questions