Buying and Selling Property in Istanbul: 2026 Guide for Foreign Investors
Buying property in Istanbul as a foreigner is a straightforward process when you understand the legal requirements and work with the right professionals. This guide covers the entire buying and selling journey — from finding the right property and making an offer to conducting due diligence, signing the sales contract, and completing the title transfer at the Tapu Office. We explain the taxes and fees involved, including the title deed fee, VAT on new properties, and annual property tax. You will learn about military clearance requirements for foreign buyers, restricted zones, and how to finance your purchase with a Turkish mortgage. For sellers, we cover capital gains tax, timing strategies, and how to prepare your property for the market.