Turkey allows foreign nationals of most countries to buy real estate. Bursa, Mudanya and Nilüfer have attracted growing interest from foreign buyers. A careful legal review protects you from costly mistakes.
Before you sign
- Title deed (tapu): check for mortgages, attachments, annotations and co-owners,
- Zoning and permits: building permit, occupancy permit (iskan) and zoning status,
- Seller’s authority: identity, power of attorney validity, company signatures,
- Off-plan purchases: developer track record, construction permit and a notarised sale promise contract.
The transaction
Foreign buyers need a tax number and an official valuation report. The title transfer takes place at the land registry; an interpreter is required if you do not speak Turkish. Payments should be made through bank transfers with clear descriptions.
Costs
Title deed fee (typically 2% for buyer and 2% for seller), revolving fund fee and valuation report costs apply. You can estimate the deed fee with our title deed fee calculator.
Citizenship
Investment above the threshold set by presidential decree may qualify for Turkish citizenship, subject to a three-year no-sale annotation on the title deed.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners buy property anywhere in Turkey?
Nationals of most countries can buy property in Turkey, subject to reciprocity, limits on total area and restrictions in military and security zones.
Do I need a lawyer to buy property?
It is not mandatory, but a lawyer can check the title deed, zoning status and contract terms and represent you at the land registry by power of attorney.
Member of the Bursa Bar (Reg. No 7458). Graduate of Ankara University Faculty of Law; former public prosecutor and chief public prosecutor.
