Step-by-Step Guide to Property Sale in Turkey for Foreign Nationals

Selling property in Turkey can be straightforward process—provided that all legal procedures are properly followed. Whether you are a foreign investor or a Turkish national, understanding the legal requirements and documentation involved in a property sale in Turkey is essential to ensure a secure transaction.

At UT Legal, our experienced team of property lawyers provides full legal support throughout each stage of the sale, ensuring that every detail complies with Turkish real estate law.

The Main Phases of Your Property Sale in Turkey

This step-by-step guide covers the critical stages of selling your real estate in Turkey.

1. Preparing Your Property for Sale & Title Deed Verification

Before listing your property, it is important to verify that all ownership documents are accurate and up to date. The key document is the title deed, which must correctly reflect your ownership details and the property’s legal status. 

2. Official Property Valuation and Market Value Determination

Turkish law requires an official valuation report for all property sales involving foreign buyers. This report assesses the fair market value of your property and must be prepared by a licensed expert. This ensures transparency and compliance with regulations governing property sale in Turkey.

3. Issuing a Power of Attorney (PoA)

You can give a power of attorney to anyone you trust to handle your property sale in Turkey. While it is not compulsory to appoint a Turkish lawyer, it is highly advisable. A Turkish lawyer, familiar with the legal system, can manage all the legal paperwork involved in the sale, saving you time and hassle, especially if you live abroad.

4. Application to the Land Registry Office

Once all required documents are collected (including the valuation report), the application should be submitted to the Land Registry Office. After the documents are reviewed, a text message will be sent to your representative and the buyer to arrange for the settlement of the sale tax.

Note on Sale Tax: The property sale tax is 4% of the declared property value. The buyer and seller may share this equally (2% each), depending on the agreement between them.

5. Finalising the Sale and Title Deed Transfer

The final step in selling property in Turkey is signing the sales agreement and completing the title deed transfer at the Land Registry Office. Both parties or their legal representatives must be present.

Once all payments and taxes are settled and the sales agreement is signed, the buyer’s name is officially recorded as the new owner, completing the property sale in Turkey process.

Foreign Exchange Certificate: What Sellers Need to Know

What is the Foreign Exchange Certificate?

The Foreign Exchange Certificate is proof that a foreign buyer has exchanged the necessary amount of foreign currency into Turkish Lira for the property purchase.

Is the FEC Required for My Property Sale?

Yes, since January 2022, the Turkish government requires all foreign nationals buying property in Turkey to obtain a Foreign Exchange Certificate. The document must be obtained from an official bank in Turkey and submitted to the Land Registry Office by the buyer.

Crucial Point: Exchange of foreign currency made through exchange offices or individuals in Turkey, or in banks outside of Turkey, is not accepted. This requirement is mandatory for all foreign buyers.

Is a Lawyer Compulsory for Property Sale in Turkey?

It is not compulsory to hire a lawyer for a property sale in Turkey. However, if you live abroad and are unfamiliar with Turkish property law, we strongly advise being represented by a lawyer.

Legal representation ensures:

• Proper due diligence and paper trails.

• A secure and transparent transaction process.

• Compliance with all current Turkish real estate laws and regulations.

At UT Legal, we provide comprehensive legal services for selling property in Turkey—from due diligence to finalising the registration of the title deed. Our multilingual team, based in the UK and Turkey, ensures smooth communication and transparent legal support throughout your property transaction.

If you are considering a property sale in Turkey, contact our expert real estate lawyers for professional advice and tailored legal support.