If your preference is to relax, why not spend time lounging on the beach or working out those kinks at one of the yoga retreats, alternatively visit one of the famous thermal spas to wash away your cares.

Of course, the real beauty of the country lies in the wealth of culture associated with "old Turkey" mixed with the current day, modern facilities. Each region has a story to tell whether you are visiting the ruins in Troy or the temple of Athena in Izmir. Imagine sampling the exotic wares at one of the hundreds of market places dotted around the country and then spending the afternoon in the ultra modern shops in the centre of town. This is a place where the magic of history is very much alive but is surrounded by the luxury and convenience of present day.

Why Turkey?

So, why would you buy a property in Turkey?

Considering the fact that Turkey is on the verge of joining the EU and is one of the fastest growing emerging markets in the world, buying property is seen as a fantastic future investment.

At present, the property prices are extremely low in Turkey. It is possible to find property for as little as 10,000 but it is anticipated that as the popularity of the destination grows and once it is accepted into the EU, the prices will skyrocket.

The property boom in other European countries such as Spain, (which is still going strong), demonstrates how the underdeveloped rural areas of a country can become very valuable almost overnight in order to meet the demand and make way for the inevitable construction and rental/purchase of property.
Therefore, the opportunity for capital growth appreciation in Turkey right now is immense.
Whether looking to buy as a holiday home or as a year round rental, the benefits of the lifestyle and cost of living in Turkey ensure that the demand for rental properties will be constant.

With so much to offer, Turkey is the ideal investment location and will quickly become the hottest destination for not only holiday makers but also for those looking for a second home or even moving as a lifestyle choice.

You want to buy…but how?

1. Who can buy?

Most foreign nationals can purchase property in Turkey providing that:

● There is a reciprocal agreement between the government of Turkey and that of the purchaser. This agreement does exist between Turkey and the U.K., EU Countries, US, Russia and also with other countries.

● The intended property is within the boundaries of a town or village with 2,000 plus registered inhabitants.

● The intended property does not lie within the confines of a military zone.

2. Turkish Property Legislation

● Ownership is anchored in article 35 of the Turkish Constitution. This article stipulates that anyone is entitled to ownership and that these rights can only be restricted by other legal stipulations.

● The ownership regulations are elaborated in the Turkish Civil Code, article 633. This mainly explains how ownership is acquired.

● Land registration is especially important when a foreign person purchases a property. There are regional directorates of the Land Registry Department, which are subdivided in provincial or district offices and they are all controlled by the state.

3. Property Registration and Delivery

The formal entry in the property register in Turkey is performed by an official of the Property Registry Department. It is a legal requirement for both the seller and the buyer to be present at the entry. If you cannot attend, you can authorize someone else to stand as your proxy.

● A public notary is not needed when the deed of transfer is delivered. The only delivery must take place in writing. After the entry and delivery the property register issues a property deed which is called 'Tapu'.

● Ownership is only obtained at the moment that the building(s), if under construction, has been completed and the full amount has been paid.

● For the most part, there are no legal restrictions against Non-Turkish Nationals regarding the acquisition of property ownership. However, the Village Act and the Military Prohibited and Security Areas need to be taken into consideration.



4. Negotiating the Purchase - Enjoy trouble-free service

Having decided upon your dream property, you will want to be absolutely certain of the legalities of the process and particularly your rights in Turkey.
Hambrook and our partners can and will ensure that impartial and expert assistance is
provided and that you are fully informed at every stage.
5. Costs

In addition to the purchase price of your property, you should expect to incur the following associated charges. Please note that all costs are only an approximate guide and could be less than stated.

- Legal Notary Office : 90 Sterling (approx) (approx. $169/ 132)
- Sworn Translator : 20 Sterling (approx) (approx. $38/ 30)
- Photographs : 10 Sterling (approx) (approx. $19/ 15)
- Purchase Tax : 300 Sterling (approx) (approx. $169 / 132)
- Land Registration (including maps) : 450 Sterling (approx) (approx. $843/ 659)
- Earthquake Insurance (compulsory) : 35 Sterling (approx) (approx. $66 / 52)
Other Costs
Buyers tax: Approximately 1.5% based on the declared price of the property.
Government tax: Approximately 100
Community tax: Approximately 8 paid yearly for local services.
Property tax: Approximately 0.5% based on the declared value of property, paid yearly.

Residents Visas

If you are relocating to Turkey for more than six months then you are well advised to apply to the Turkish Consulate in London for a residents visa. They will issue a document for you to present to the police near your new home and they will process the application. Also it is advisable to consult the Turkish Embassy if you wish to export personal belongings or furniture as a visa on these belongings may also be enforced.