Most of our clients at Kainat Real Estate are buying a home in Türkiye for the first time, often from abroad. The process is straightforward when you know the steps. Here is how it works in 2026, from the first viewing to the title deed (tapu).
1. Can I buy?
Citizens of most countries can buy property in Türkiye, including Afghan and Iranian citizens. A few nationalities face restrictions, and some areas (such as military zones) are closed to foreign buyers. We check this for you before you spend any time on viewings.
2. Get a Turkish tax number
You need a tax number (vergi numarası) to buy. It takes a few minutes at a tax office with your passport. We can go with you.
3. Choose the property and check it
Before you pay anything, we check the title deed with you: who the owner is, whether there is a mortgage or a legal block on it, and whether the building has its occupancy permit (iskan). We also tell you if the neighborhood is open for new residence permits, because some neighborhoods in Istanbul, including parts of Esenyurt, are closed to new applications.
4. Valuation report
Every sale to a foreign buyer needs an official valuation report (ekspertiz) from a licensed company. The title deed office will not complete the sale without it.
5. Agreement and payment
Once the price is agreed, we prepare a written agreement. Payment goes through a Turkish bank. If you pay from foreign currency, the bank converts it and issues a currency exchange certificate (DAB), which is needed for citizenship applications.
6. Title deed transfer at the Tapu office
The appointment is booked online. On the day, the buyer and seller (or their legal representatives) sign at the land registry office. If you do not speak Turkish, a sworn translator must be present; we arrange this. You also need an earthquake insurance policy (DASK) for the property.
7. Costs to expect
- Title deed fee: 4% of the declared price. By law it is shared 2% buyer, 2% seller, but in practice the buyer often pays all of it. Agree this in writing.
- Valuation report, translator, DASK and notary: smaller fixed costs.
- VAT applies to some new-build purchases from developers.
- Our service fee, agreed in writing before any viewing.
8. After the purchase
Register utilities (electricity, water, gas) in your name, and if you want a residence permit or citizenship, start the application. We help with both.
Rules and fees change. This guide is general information, not legal advice. Confirm the details for your case with us or a lawyer before you sign.
Questions? Write to us on WhatsApp at +90 539 549 59 30. We speak Dari, Turkish and English.
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