Frequently Asked Questions
We've put together a list of the questions we are most commonly asked together with our replies. If you have a question not answered here, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our best to answer it!
Q: Do I need a resident permit to own a property in Turkey?
A: No you do not need a residency permit to purchase or own property in Turkey.
Q: Can I get a mortgage on a Turkish property?
A: Mortgages are now available for purchasing property in Turkey for further details contact tom@mlptwickenham.co.uk . As yet Turkish banks are not providing mortgages to foreign nationals.
Q: Do I need a lawyer in Turkey?
A: In Turkey lawyers do not carry out conveyancing, this is completed by the Estate agents. The neccessary paperwork for a purchase or sale are carried out by the notary. However if clients wish a solicitor to be present at the contract stage, we are more than willing to arrange this. The solicitor will charge a nominal fee to check the contract and witness it.
Q: What fees do I need to pay when buying land/property, Premier fees, survey fees etc?
A: Click here for an approximate schedule of fees
Q: What are the running costs of maintaining a property? - Dask, Insurance, Council Tax, Co-op fees?
A: This varies from property to property, however we have prepared an example here .
Q: How do I pay these and do I need to open a local bank account – what kind and how do I apply? Is there internet banking?
A: Taxes, insurance etc. can be paid annually or twice yearly. Payments are made direct to the local council offices for taxes and insurance payments can be covered by standing order at the bank. Yes you will need to open a bank account, both a Sterling account and a Turkish Lira account. Opening an account is straightforward all you need is your passport and tax No. One of our representatives will accompany you to assist with translation although nearly all the banks have at least one English speaking member of staff. Some banks have internet banking and others do not. Check at the time of opening the account .
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Q: What is the best way to transfer funds to Turkey?
A: International transfer via your U.K account direct to your sterling account. Never change your money into Turkish Lira in the U.K as you will lose out due to the low rate of exchange.
Q: If I don't speak Turkish – how can I understand the legal documents?
A: An independant government registered translator will accompany you to the notary and be present at the contract stage so you are clear on all the paperwork that you sign. The translator will charge you direct for their services (see purchasing costs) .
Q: What if I have to leave before the sale is concluded?
A: You can leave your power of attorney with Premier Estates, for us to complete the sale in your absence. The power of attorney we take is specific, it only permits us to pay the relevant government taxes on your behalf, transfer the deeds into your name/names and legally register the sale. We do not advise clients to give a general power of attorney, as this covers a wide range of topics and is unnecessary.
Q: If buying a plot of land for construction – do I need planning permission?
A: Yes if you wish to construct your own home then planning permission must be obtained. Premier Estates and the architect will deal with all the necessary applications on your behalf.
Q: If there is no survey system – how can I be sure the property is in good condition?
A: There are independant surveyors in Turkey, should you wish to have a survey completed. Due to most purchases being cash transactions very few purchasers use this system. As your agents we will advise you as accurately as possible about the condition of a property, but obviously we are not structural engineers.
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Q: How long should I plan to be in Turkey to buy property?
A: Once you have found the property you wish to buy, the relevant paperwork needed to commence the purchase takes half a day to complete.
Q: If building a new house or doing a renovation – how do I choose fittings/furnishings?
A: Premier Estates provide you with a representative to guide you arround the relevant shops, suppliers etc.. so you can choose your fittings/furniture. We also ensure you receive the most competitive prices and we do NOT receive or seek any commission from the suppliers.
Q: What guarantee is there for work carried out?
A: On renovation work a 12 month guarantee is provided. On new construction a 5 year guarantee is provided.
Q: What fees do I have to pay Premier?
A: Premier Estates charge a 3% fee ( 3% of the property cost ).
Q: Are there any restrictions on owning property in Turkey?
A: Foreigners are entitled to own property and register it under their own names in Turkey. The only restrictions are if the properties are in areas where there is a military base or it is in a protected area or rural area
Q: How easy will it be to rent my property out?
A: We have many clients who are successfully renting out their properties. Obviously the ease with which you do this depends on the type of property, the area it is located in and the way it is marketed. We are happy to advise and assist you with this service.
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Q: Do Premier have a rental management service and what does this cost?
A: Premier have a property management service, the fees vary according to your needs and the type of property. Rental management is dealt with by a separate company, who we strongly recommend.
Q: Is there any code of practice monitoring estate agents in Turkey?
A: No, that's why it's so important to choose an agency you trust - read our testimonials.
Q: Is the asking price what I have to pay for a property – is there a bargaining or bidding system?
A: The asking price is nearly always negotiable; you can make an offer on a property and we will be happy to liase with the seller on your behalf.
Q: At what point does a sale become legal?
A: At the contract stage both the seller and purchaser have legally committed themselves to the sale by signing the contract. Legal ownership is when the full payment has been made and the deeds transferred to the new owners name/names.
