Legal Steps for Foreigners to Buy an Apartment in Turkey

In recent years, buying an apartment in Turkey has become a realistic dream for many foreign investors and residents, whether for residency, real estate investment, or applying for Turkish citizenship through property ownership.

Turkey's legal and regulatory environment has contributed to facilitating the process of buying property in Turkey, while providing legal protection and transparency in real estate transactions.

Therefore, it is essential for anyone wishing to buy an apartment in Turkey as a foreigner to accurately understand the legal steps involved, starting from defining the purpose of ownership, through official procedures, and up to registering the property and achieving full ownership.

In this article, we will discuss in detail:

• Steps to buying a property in Turkey for foreigners.
• Conditions for buying an apartment in Turkey for foreigners.
• How to verify property ownership in Turkey.
• Legal costs of buying a property in Turkey.

Finally, important legal advice from Mbany Real Estate to ensure a safe and successful experience in the Turkish apartment market for foreigners.

Importance of Real Estate Ownership in Turkey for Foreigners

Real Estate Ownership in Turkey: A Highly Viable Investment Opportunity

The real estate market in Turkey has witnessed significant growth, making it one of the most attractive markets for foreigners, especially with the abundance of apartments for sale in Turkey in strategic locations and at competitive prices.

Investors usually choose to buy an apartment in Istanbul or major cities due to the high rental returns and future growth opportunities they offer.

Are Foreigners Allowed to Buy Apartments in Turkey?

Yes, according to Turkish laws for buying property for foreigners, citizens of more than 180 countries can own property in Turkey, provided that the property is not located in security or military zones and does not exceed the maximum permitted ownership limit.

Steps to Buying an Apartment in Turkey for Foreigners

Defining the Purpose of Buying Property in Turkey

Before starting, you must be clear about the purpose of buying an apartment in Turkey:

• Is it a permanent residence?
• Is it a real estate investment to generate profits?
• Is the goal to obtain Turkish citizenship?

Clarity of purpose helps in determining the appropriate type of property and its location.

Choosing the Right City and Location

Preferred cities include:

• Istanbul: The most sought-after investment.
• Antalya: Ideal for residency and recreation.
• Ankara and Izmir: Suitable for living and working.

The choice of location determines the future value of the property and the ease of selling it later.

Verifying Property Ownership in Turkey

Reviewing the Title Deed (Tapu)

Reviewing the "Tapu" (title deed) is one of the most important steps in buying an apartment in Turkey. It is essential to ensure that the seller is the registered owner of the property and that there are no disputes.

Ensuring the Property is Free of Debts or Mortgages

It is necessary to check the official property registry at the Land Registry Directorate (Tapu Office) to verify the absence of:

• Bank liens.
• Outstanding loans.
• Existing legal issues.

Hiring a Specialized Lawyer

It is advisable to appoint a real estate lawyer to review the documents and ensure that all property registration procedures in Turkey are carried out legally.

Conditions for Buying an Apartment in Turkey for Foreigners

Conditions for Real Estate Ownership for Foreigners in Turkey

• The property must not be in a military or security zone.
• The maximum area that can be owned is 30 hectares (300,000 square meters) per individual.
• Property ownership is prohibited for citizens of certain restricted nationalities (according to updated laws).
• Obtaining an official real estate appraisal issued by a licensed entity.

Important Additional Conditions

• It is not allowed to purchase more than 10% of the land area in a single municipality.
• The property must be registered within a specified period after signing the contract.

Procedures for Registering the Property in Turkey

Important Required Documents

• Valid passport translated into Turkish and notarized by a notary public.
• Turkish tax identification number (easily obtained from the tax office).
• Personal photograph of the buyer.
• Sales contract or promise of sale agreement.
• Real estate appraisal report.

Steps for Registering the Property

1. Visit the Land Registry Directorate and submit a transfer of ownership request.
2. Pay the Tapu fees and procedure costs.
3. Sign the sales contract in front of the land registry officer.
4. Receive the official title deed (Tapu) in the name of the new buyer.

Legal Costs of Buying Property in Turkey

When buying a property in Turkey, you should be prepared for the following fees:

Basic Fees

• Property transfer tax: 4% of the property value (usually divided between the seller and the buyer).
• Real estate appraisal fees: Vary depending on the location of the property but are mandatory.
• Tapu registration fees: Paid to the Land Registry Office.
• Fees for the lawyer and certified translator (if their services are used).

Other Potential Costs:

• Fees for opening water, electricity, and gas meters.
• Costs of certifications and legal translations.

How to Buy an Apartment in Turkey for Foreigners Safely

Relying on a Trusted Real Estate Company

Professional companies like Mbany Real Estate offer professional services that include:

• Selecting the best apartments for sale in Turkey according to the budget.
• Negotiating the price on your behalf.
• Facilitating all legal and administrative procedures.

Appointing a Lawyer to Ensure the Validity of Contracts

Having a lawyer specializing in real estate ownership in Turkey protects you from fraudulent contracts or unfair terms.

Legal Advice Before Buying an Apartment in Turkey

Understand Turkish Laws Well

Before proceeding with the purchase, it is essential to understand the conditions of real estate ownership for foreigners in Turkey to avoid any violations or rejection of property registration.

Do Not Pay in Advance Without Guarantees

Make sure to sign a clear, formal contract and that any down payment is legally documented.

Review Licenses and Plans

Request to see the building permit and project plans, especially when buying an apartment in under-construction projects.

Mbany Real Estate: Your Guide to Buying an Apartment in Turkey

Why Choose Mbany Real Estate?

As a company specializing in the Turkish market, Mbany Real Estate offers you:

• Investment consultations tailored for foreigners.
• Multiple options of Turkish apartments for foreigners in Istanbul and other cities.
• Comprehensive legal services to ensure the validity of the steps to buying an apartment in Turkey.
• Comprehensive follow-up from the moment of choosing the property until receiving the Tapu.
• Facilitation in translation, notarization, and registration.

Frequently Asked Questions: Legal Steps to Buying an Apartment in Turkey for Foreigners

Conclusion: Legal Steps to Buying an Apartment in Turkey for Foreigners

In conclusion, the legal steps to buying an apartment in Turkey for foreigners require legal awareness and careful planning to avoid potential risks.

By understanding the conditions for buying an apartment in Turkey for foreigners, knowing how to carry out property registration procedures in Turkey, and verifying property ownership, any foreign investor can confidently enter the Turkish apartment market.

Cooperating with a reliable entity such as Mbany Real Estate makes the experience of buying property in Turkey a safe, well-considered, and smooth process. Do not hesitate to start your real estate journey now in one of the fastest-growing markets in Europe.