Investing in Turkish real estate offers high returns and residency opportunities, but foreign buyers face specific statutory restrictions and procedural risks. Ensuring a secure property transaction requires formal legal due diligence before executing purchase agreements or transferring funds.
This guide by Avukat Damla Bayrak Law Firm outlines the essential steps for purchasing property safely in Turkey.
1. Legal Restrictions on Foreign Ownership
According to Article 35 of the Land Registry Law (No. 2644):
- Foreign individuals can acquire a maximum of 30 hectares of real estate nationwide.
- Property acquisitions cannot exceed 10% of the total private land area in any single district (İlçe).
- Foreigners cannot purchase real estate within military forbidden zones or security zones.
2. Essential Due Diligence Checks
Before making any down payment or signing contracts, an independent real estate attorney must perform the following checks at the Land Registry (Tapu Dairesi):
- Encumbrance Search: Verifying if the property has active mortgages (ipotek), liens (haciz), or court injunctions.
- Building Permit & Iskan: Confirming that the property possesses a valid occupancy permit (iskan) and building license.
- Title Deed Validity: Checking whether the seller is the sole legal owner and authorized to sell.
3. Official Sales Procedure
In Turkey, property ownership is transferred exclusively at official Land Registry Offices or notary publics authorized for property sales. Private contracts or informal receipts do not legally transfer real estate ownership.
4. Legal Guidance in Istanbul
Avukat Damla Bayrak Law Firm provides title deed reviews, contract drafting, independent due diligence, and power-of-attorney purchase services for foreign investors.
Contact Details:
Address: Çağlayan, Park Cd No: 22/24 Kat: 3, Daire 24, 34403 Kağıthane/İstanbul
Direct Phone & WhatsApp: +90 534 598 95 99
Email: info@avdamlabayrak.com
Website: avdamlabayrak.com/en/
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