What Are the Real Costs of Buying a Property in Turkey in 2025?

What Are the Real Costs of Buying a Property in Turkey in 2025?

Buying a property in Turkey remains one of the most attractive real estate investments in Europe, but foreign buyers should be aware that there are several additional costs beyond the listing price. This 2025 guide outlines all legal, administrative, and financial charges associated with purchasing real estate in Turkey.

1. Title Deed Transfer Fee (Tapu Harcı)

This is the primary tax applied to all real estate transactions in Turkey.

• Rate: 4% of the declared sales value
• Who pays: Typically the buyer (unless negotiated otherwise)
• When paid: On the day of the title deed appointment at the Land Registry Office

2. Legal Services – Optional

Foreign buyers are allowed to complete Tapu transactions on their own. However, many prefer to hire a lawyer to oversee the legal process.

• Fixed fee lawyers: €1,000–€2,000
• Commission-based lawyers: 1%–2% of the property price
• Not mandatory: Buyer may proceed without legal representation

3. Translator, Notary & Documentation Fees

If the buyer does not speak Turkish, a sworn translator must be present at the Land Registry Office. Additionally, buyers must obtain notarized translations of their passports. If Power of Attorney is issued, this too must be notarized.

• Average total cost: €300–€400
• Covers: Sworn translator, notarized passport translation, Power of Attorney (if required)

4. Compulsory Earthquake Insurance (DASK)

DASK is mandatory for all residential properties in Turkey and must be arranged before Tapu registration.

• Annual cost: €25–€100 depending on the size and location of the property
• Purpose: Required for legal registration and utility connection

5. Annual Property Tax (Emlak Vergisi)

Once the property is registered, the buyer becomes responsible for annual real estate taxes.

• Rate: 0.2% for residential properties in metropolitan municipalities
• Payment: Twice a year to the local municipality (May and November)

6. Utility Registration Costs

Buyers must register electricity and water under their own name after the title deed transfer.

• Electricity setup: €50–€100
• Water subscription: €100–€150
• Optional Internet installation: Depends on provider and speed

7. Currency Exchange Certificate (Döviz Alım Belgesi)

Foreign nationals are legally required to convert the property price from foreign currency into Turkish Lira through a licensed Turkish bank. The bank then issues a Currency Exchange Certificate, which must be submitted during the title deed transfer.

• Requirement: Mandatory for all foreign buyers
• Cost impact: Varies based on daily exchange rate and bank margin
• Tip: Work with a reliable bank experienced in real estate transactions to minimize currency conversion losses

8. Real Estate Agency Commission (If Applicable)

Some agencies may charge a commission on top of the sale price. However, many listings on resortpropertyturkey.com are commission-free and sold directly by the developer or owner.

• Standard rate: 2%–4% of the sale price
• Note: Often not applicable for direct developer sales

9. Furnishing & White Goods (Optional)

If the property is sold unfurnished, buyers should budget for essentials like kitchen appliances, furniture, and décor.

• Typical cost range: €5,000–€15,000 depending on the size and furnishing standards

Example: Total Estimated Costs for a €100,000 Property in 2025

• Title deed fee (4%): €4,000
• Translator, notary, documentation: €300–€400
• Currency exchange margin: €150–€300
• DASK insurance: €50
• Utilities registration (electricity + water): €200–€250
• Lawyer (if used): €1,500 (optional)
• Total (without lawyer): approximately €4,800–€5,000
• Total (with lawyer): approximately €6,200+

The real cost of buying a property in Turkey includes more than the advertised price. In 2025, foreign buyers should plan for an additional 6%–8% of the purchase price to cover essential taxes, fees, documentation, and legal compliance.

At Resort Property Turkey, we help buyers navigate the process safely and efficiently—from selecting the right property to completing all title and tax procedures. Our team ensures a fully legal and stress-free investment experience in Turkey.