Buyers & the Law

It is a good idea to appoint an experienced solicitor to look after your interests and to check all contracts before you sign them.

However, merely appointing a solicitor is not enough. It is essential to find one who has experience of local property law and who has represented British clients before. For a recommended solicitor contact us.

Be aware that some British law firms may charge a lot more than solicitors in Turkey, and will subcontract the work out to a local law firm anyway. This can increase not only the cost but also the time taken for searches and checks.

Granting power of attorney to your solicitor allows them to act on your behalf. This can be particularly useful if you don’t have the time to return to Turkey during the buying process. It also saves you money on air travel and accommodation. A power of attorney can be drafted by a Turkish solicitor and must be notarised in your presence at the Notary Public.

In January 2006, the law concerning foreign buyers was changed. The new law limits land purchases to 2.5 hectares, or 30 hectares with special permission, and bans foreigners from buying in strategic or military zones, and rural areas. This change does not affect the vast majority of buyers in the coastal resorts, towns or cities.

Foreign nationals can:

• Buy freehold property within planning areas (cities, towns, resorts and some villages)
• Own up to 2.5 hectares (30 hectares with special permission) of land in a planning area
• Set-up a limited company to buy property or land in rural areas