Buying property in Türkiye as a foreigner is open and common — but a few legal checks separate a smooth purchase from an expensive mistake. Here's what to verify before you sign anything.
Can foreigners buy property in Türkiye?
Yes. Most nationalities can buy residential and commercial property, subject to limits in certain military or restricted zones. Your lawyer confirms the property is eligible for foreign ownership before you commit.
The checks to run before signing
- Title deed (tapu) verification — confirm the seller is the registered owner and the property matches the records;
- Encumbrances — mortgages, liens, or annotations registered against the title;
- Zoning and occupancy — that the building is legal and has its habitation certificate (iskan);
- Outstanding debts — unpaid taxes or utility/management charges.
Avoid transferring a deposit before the title and encumbrance checks are done. A short legal review up front is far cheaper than unwinding a bad purchase.
The purchase process
- Get a tax number and open a Turkish bank account;
- Sign a sales agreement (ideally reviewed by your lawyer) and agree terms;
- Obtain the valuation report required for foreign buyers;
- Complete the transfer at the Land Registry (Tapu) office.
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Costs and taxes
Budget for the title-transfer fee, notary and translation costs, and ongoing annual property tax. Currency-exchange documentation is also required for foreign-currency purchases — your lawyer will guide the paperwork.
Does buying property give residence or citizenship?
Property can support a residence permit and, above the regulated threshold, the citizenship-by-investment route — but the rules and amounts are specific. Confirm current figures before relying on them.