The headline price is only part of the picture. Budgeting for the full cost of buying in Turkey - the one-off fees at purchase plus the ongoing costs of ownership - helps you buy with no surprises. Here is a clear breakdown.
One-off costs at purchase
| Title deed (TAPU) transfer fee | 4% of the declared value |
|---|---|
| VAT (new builds) | 1%-20% depending on type; exemptions can apply for foreign-currency buyers |
| Valuation report | Mandatory for foreign buyers; modest fixed cost |
| Notary, translation & sworn interpreter | Modest, per document |
| DASK earthquake insurance | Low annual premium, compulsory |
| Agency fee | Agreed in writing before you commit |
The title-deed fee explained
The main transaction cost is the 4% title-deed transfer fee, calculated on the declared value. In practice it is sometimes shared between buyer and seller - we clarify this for each deal in advance.
VAT and exemptions
VAT can apply on new developments, but a valuable exemption exists for foreign buyers who bring foreign currency into Turkey and hold the property for a set period. We check whether your purchase qualifies.
Ongoing costs of ownership
Budget for annual property tax (a low percentage of assessed value), building maintenance/site fees (aidat), utilities and DASK renewal. For hands-off owners, our property management service covers all of this.
Plan your budget with us
We provide every client a transparent, written cost breakdown before they commit. Read the full buying process guide, or ask us for a tailored budget.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the main tax when buying property in Turkey?
- The title-deed (TAPU) transfer fee of 4% of the declared value is the principal transaction tax, sometimes shared between buyer and seller.
- Do foreigners pay VAT on property in Turkey?
- VAT can apply on new builds, but foreign buyers who bring in foreign currency and hold the property can often qualify for a VAT exemption. We verify eligibility.
- What are the ongoing costs of owning property in Turkey?
- Annual property tax, building/site maintenance fees, utilities and compulsory DASK earthquake insurance. Management services can handle these for overseas owners.
