Buying Property in Turkey: A Quick Guide
- General Procedure:
- Choose your desired property and ensure it has the necessary legal qualifications.
- Open a Turkish bank account for the purchase funds.
- Get a property valuation and approval from a Turkish government expert.
- Transfer the property deed at official “Noter” offices.
- Deposit funds into the seller’s account and receive your title deed.
- Based on the property value, you can apply for temporary residence and eventual Turkish citizenship.
- Key Property Buying Rules:
- No purchases in military or security zones.
- Foreigners can own up to 30 hectares.
- A property worth $400,000 grants a two-year renewable residence permit. Ownership can also lead to permanent residence and citizenship.
- Foreigners can buy a maximum of 10% of real estate in any specific region.
- Land bought for construction must be developed within two years.
- Property purchase agreements must be made in official Turkish consulting offices.
- Ensure your home country is eligible for property purchases in Turkey.
- To aim for permanent residence and citizenship, buy property from a Turkish national.
- Essential Documents:
- Passport and photos (two 3×4).
- Proof of residence from home country.
- Turkish bank account and local tax code.
- For property deed transfer: original and translated passport, photos of both parties, district municipality documents, earthquake insurance papers, and official translator if needed.
- Taxes & Fees:
- Transfer fees: 2% by both buyer and seller based on declared property value.
- VAT: Generally 18%. Properties under 150 sq.m. attract 1% VAT.
- Stamp duty: 0.15% – 0.75% based on the contract value.
- Rental Income Tax: Scaled from 15% – 35%.
- Property taxes: Residences (0.1%), Other buildings (0.2%), Land (0.1%), Farming land (0%), and Vacant land (0.3%).
- Capital Gains Tax: Marginal rate of 15% – 35% for properties owned post-January 1st, 2007, and held for over 5 years.
- Inheritance Tax: Ranges from 1% – 30% based on asset value.
Ensure to consult with a legal professional for the most up-to-date information and personalized advice.