A beautiful listing is only the beginning of a property decision. Before paying a deposit or signing a commitment, international buyers should verify how the property can be transferred, what restrictions apply and which costs or risks may follow the transaction.
Seven practical checks
- Confirm the seller and title information. Ownership is transferred through registration at the land registry—not simply through a private or preliminary sales contract.
- Check mortgages, liens and restrictions. Official guidance recommends reviewing burdens that could prevent or complicate a sale before procedures begin.
- Verify foreign-buyer eligibility. Nationality, location and security-zone restrictions may affect whether a particular property can be acquired.
- Match the property to official records. Compare the city, district, neighborhood, block and parcel details. Türkiye’s official Parcel Inquiry service can provide basic property information.
- Review the building and insurance position. Buildings require mandatory earthquake insurance for land-registry procedures; buyers should also seek independent technical checks appropriate to the property.
- Calculate the all-in cost. Consider taxes, official charges, insurance, legal and translation services, commissions, maintenance and ongoing ownership costs—not only the asking price.
- Use qualified independent advice. Legal, tax, valuation and structural questions should be reviewed by appropriately qualified professionals.
Transparency matters
SmartKey Turkey does not own the properties it introduces. We act as an intermediary and information platform. Property availability, price and documentation should be reconfirmed before any transaction.
This checklist is general information and does not replace legal, tax, valuation or engineering advice. Rules and requirements may change.
Official sources
- Investment Office of the Presidency of Türkiye — Acquiring Property and Citizenship
- General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre (TKGM)
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