Cost Guide
Property Buying Costs in Turkey
A transparent breakdown of every fee you'll encounter — no hidden costs, no surprises.
Buying CostsFeesTaxes2026 Rates
Talk to Our TeamWhat Does It Really Cost?
Beyond the property price itself, there are several one-time costs associated with purchasing property in Turkey. The good news is that these costs are significantly lower than in most European countries — typically 5–8% of the property value in total.
All fees listed below are approximate and based on current 2026 rates. Amounts may vary slightly depending on the specific property, location, and current exchange rates.
One-Time Purchase Costs
These fees are paid once during the buying process.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Title Deed Tax (Tapu Harci)Officially split 2% buyer + 2% seller, but in practice the buyer typically pays the full 4%. The declared value at the Tapu Office is often lower than the actual purchase price. | 4% of declared value |
| Certified Translator FeeA certified translator is required by law at the Tapu Office to translate the deed into the buyer's language. This is a one-time cost. | 100–200 EUR |
| Land Registry FeeAdministrative fee charged by the Tapu Office for processing the title deed transfer. | 300–500 EUR |
| Power of Attorney (if applicable)Only required if you want someone to act on your behalf. Includes notary fees and certified translation. | 250–400 EUR |
| Iskan Certificate (new builds only)The habitation permit (Iskan) is required for newly built properties. Cost depends on the property size and location. Not applicable for resale properties. | From 350 EUR |
| DASK Earthquake InsuranceCompulsory earthquake insurance. Must be obtained before utility connections. Annual renewal required. | 50–150 EUR/year |
Utility Connection Costs
One-time fees to get your property connected.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity — New connection | ~100 EUR |
| Electricity — Name transfer | ~60 EUR |
| Water — New connection | ~60 EUR |
| Water — Name transfer | ~30 EUR |
Total Estimate
Approximately 5–8% of the property value
Exact costs depend on declared value, property type, and whether the purchase is new build or resale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the title deed tax negotiable?
The rate is fixed at 4%, but the declared value at the Tapu Office can legitimately be lower than the purchase price. Your agent will advise you on the standard practice in your area.
Are there any annual property taxes?
Yes. Annual property tax is 0.1% of the government-assessed value (0.2% in metropolitan areas). For detailed recurring costs, see our Annual Expenses guide.
Do I pay VAT on property purchases?
VAT applies to new properties purchased from developers (1–20% depending on property size and location). Resale properties between individuals are VAT-exempt. Foreign buyers purchasing their first property in Turkey may qualify for a VAT exemption on new builds.
What is the Iskan certificate?
Iskan (habitation permit) confirms that a newly built property meets building codes and is approved for habitation. It's required for new builds before you can register utilities in your name. Resale properties should already have one.
Can I pay in my home currency?
Property prices are often quoted in EUR or USD, but the official transaction at the Tapu Office is recorded in Turkish Lira. Exchange rate fluctuations can work in your favor as a foreign buyer.
Are there hidden fees I should watch for?
No. The costs listed in this guide cover everything. Reputable agents are transparent about all fees upfront. If anyone quotes you additional 'processing fees' not listed here, ask for clarification.