According to the law on 'property purchase by foreigners' enacted in 2006, foreign nationals are allowed to acquire real estate in Turkey on the conditions of being reciprocal and complying with legal restrictions.

The legal framework that must be adhered to when buying property in Turkey covers the following: the Constitution, relevant provisions of the Civil Code, the Title Deeds Act and the Foreign Direct Investment Law.

It's not compulsory to hire a solicitor when buying property in Turkey. However, as there are many transactions within the process it's advisable to consult a solicitor on legal and finance issues. English speaking-solicitors working in Turkey are listed on the following websites:
British Embassy
List of Turkish Attorneys

As there are several steps to be followed in the property-buying process, it's suggested that you delegate Power of Attorney to an agent by means of a legal document. This delegation should be done in the presence of a Notary-Public.

The Mortgage Law was adopted by the Turkish Parliament in April this year. This makes mortgages available over long periods to house buyers.

It is strongly advised that you sign both the English and Turkish versions of your property contract in the presence of a Notary Public.

Buyers and owners must both apply to the tapu (a title deed showing the owner has ownership rights) office to transfer ownership. The buyer must provide the Title Deed, their passport or ID card and two recent passport photos.

For more information on how to buy property in Turkey visit:
Turkish Embassy London

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Article published June 2007