Buying property in Turkey is a serious and responsible decision that requires attention at every stage. In 2024, the process of acquiring real estate for foreign citizens in Turkey comes with its own specific features and includes several key steps that must be followed to successfully complete the transaction.
In this article, I will provide a detailed overview of all the stages, including obtaining the necessary documents, working with banks and local authorities, as well as what needs to be considered to comply with all legal requirements in Turkey.
Step One: Obtaining the Conversion Certificate (Döviz Alım Belgesi, DAB)
One of the first steps when purchasing property in Turkey in 2024 is obtaining a conversion certificate, known as the Döviz Alım Belgesi (DAB). This document plays a crucial role in the process, as it confirms the exchange of foreign currency into Turkish lira, which is a mandatory requirement for completing a real estate transaction by foreign citizens.
But why is this document necessary? The DAB is used to control foreign currency transactions and record that the buyer has transferred funds into a Turkish account in local currency. This requirement helps the government monitor and regulate the influx of foreign investment in the real estate sector. To obtain the DAB, you need to contact the bank where the currency exchange was made and request the corresponding certificate. This certificate can be obtained by either the seller or the buyer. The main condition for its necessity is that one party (or both parties) involved in the transaction is a foreign citizen.
Step Two: Currency Exchange
The next important stage of buying property in Turkey in 2024 is currency exchange. To purchase real estate, you need to convert foreign funds into Turkish lira, euros, or pounds. This process requires careful attention, as each transaction must be officially documented.
Currency exchange can be carried out through authorized banks in Turkey. After the exchange, you will receive the conversion certificate (Döviz Alım Belgesi) that I mentioned earlier. This document is essential to finalize the property purchase. It’s very important to ensure all the details in the certificate are correct, as any errors could delay the completion of the transaction.
Step Three: Filling Out the Application Form
After completing the currency exchange and obtaining the conversion certificate, the next step is to fill out the application form for purchasing property. This process is quite straightforward, especially if you have the assistance of an agent or realtor who handles most of the formalities.
In the application form, you will need to provide several important details:
- Your full name as it appears in your passport;
- Parents’ names — both your mother’s and father’s;
- Your marital status — whether you are officially married;
- Your current address in Russia.
One of the key requirements is the inclusion of a passport photo, which will be attached to the application form. A realtor can help with this, or you can have the photo taken in advance. It’s important that all the information is entered correctly, as any mistakes could lead to delays in the property registration process.
Here is the link to the application form.
Step Four: Providing Scanned Copies of Documents
To complete the property purchase application process in Turkey in 2024, you will need to submit several documents. First and foremost, a scanned copy of your passport is required. Typically, only the first page is needed, which includes your basic information — name, surname, nationality, and photograph.
In addition, you will need a 3×4 cm photo. This is a standard requirement for official documents, and if you don’t have such a photo, you can have one taken on-site or prepare it in advance. The photo must be taken against a white background to meet the requirements of Turkish authorities.
These documents are usually processed fairly quickly, but it’s important to ensure everything is submitted correctly to avoid any delays during the registration process.
Step Five: Signing the Sale and Purchase Agreement
Once all the documents are gathered and the application form is completed, one of the most important stages of buying property in Turkey in 2024 begins — signing the sale and purchase agreement. At this stage, the buyer and seller agree on the final terms of the transaction, including the property price, payment schedule, and the transfer of ownership. All costs associated with the purchase are covered by the buyer.
The sale and purchase agreement is drawn up in writing, and typically, a lawyer or real estate agent assists to ensure that all legal aspects are properly addressed. This document protects both parties involved in the transaction and confirms your legal right to the purchased property. The deal is often executed in euros or pounds, depending on the region where the purchase takes place.
It’s important to note that during the signing of the agreement, the presence of a translator is usually required if you do not speak Turkish. This is a legal requirement aimed at ensuring that all parties are fully aware of their rights and obligations.
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Step Six: Paying Taxes and Fees
For successful property registration, the next step is the payment of all necessary taxes and fees. When purchasing real estate in Turkey in 2024, the buyer is required to make several mandatory payments.
First, there is the property transfer tax, which amounts to 4% of the property’s value. This tax is paid at the local tax office, and the amount is calculated based on the price specified in the sale and purchase agreement.
Second, there may be some additional minor expenses, such as document processing fees, notary services, and real estate agent fees. Don’t forget about the mandatory property insurance, which covers risks from natural disasters such as earthquakes. This insurance is compulsory and must be paid annually.
Once all taxes and fees are paid, the property purchase process is considered complete, and you can fully enjoy your new property in Turkey.
Step Seven: Registering Property Ownership at the Land Registry
After signing the sale and purchase agreement, the final step in buying property in Turkey in 2024 is registering property ownership at the Turkish Land Registry, also known as Tapu. This step takes place after the agreement is signed and serves as official confirmation that you have become the legal owner of the property.
To complete the registration, you will need to provide all the documents collected earlier:
- Sale and purchase agreement;
- Döviz Alım Belgesi (Conversion Certificate);
- Tax number;
- Property documents;
- Passport;
- Photographs;
- Receipts for tax payments.
It is important to ensure that all documents are translated into Turkish if required. At this stage, you must be present in person, or you can authorize an official representative if you are unable to be in Turkey during the registration process.
The registration process at the Land Registry usually takes a few days. Once your ownership is officially registered, you will be issued a Tapu — a document that confirms the property is now legally yours. After receiving the Tapu, you are officially recognized as the owner of the property in Turkey, and the transaction is considered complete.
Step Eight: Receiving the Keys and Moving into the Property
After completing all the formalities, paying the taxes, and registering ownership, you will finally receive the keys to your new property in Turkey. This is the most rewarding step, as you can officially move into your home and use it as you wish — whether for living, vacationing, or renting it out.
Before moving in, it’s important to conduct a thorough inspection of the property to ensure everything is in good condition and that there are no hidden defects. If the purchase was made in a new development, there may be some final construction work or touch-ups that need to be coordinated with the developer.
Now, you fully own the property and can enjoy all the benefits of having a home in one of the most sought-after countries for investment and leisure. The steps to buying property in Turkey in 2024 have been successfully completed!
Your Reliable Partner at Every Stage of Buying Property in Turkey
Purchasing property in Turkey in 2024 may seem like a complex process with numerous steps and details requiring careful attention. However, with our company, you won’t need to worry about a thing. We provide support at every stage of the transaction — from obtaining the Döviz Alım Belgesi to registering property ownership and paying all taxes.
Our specialists will assist in gathering and preparing all necessary documents, guide you through the currency exchange process, and handle the transaction with the utmost accuracy and attention to detail. We provide legal support and help you fill out all the forms, making the process as easy and convenient as possible for you. Buying property in Turkey will be a delightful experience for you in 2024.
You can trust us to manage all stages of the transaction, and we guarantee that you will receive your property quickly and without unnecessary hassle. Our team will be your reliable partner in this important endeavor, freeing you from bureaucratic hurdles so you can focus on what matters most — enjoying your new home in Turkey.
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