Avoiding Property Scams in Turkey: 7 Warning Signs for Foreign Buyers

Most property sales in Turkey go smoothly, but foreign buyers are sometimes targeted because they do not know the local process. Here are seven warning signs to watch for.

1. Pressure to pay a deposit today "Only one unit left" or "the price goes up tomorrow" is a classic tactic. A genuine seller will wait a few days for basic checks.

2. The seller is not the owner on the title deed Always confirm who is registered on the Tapu (title deed). If someone else is selling, they need a valid, notarised power of attorney.

3. Payment to a personal account Payments should go to the registered owner or developer company, with a clear contract and receipt. Be careful with cash or personal transfers to agents.

4. Debts, mortgages or restrictions on the title A title deed can carry a mortgage, seizure or other annotation. These should be checked at the Land Registry before you pay.

5. A price far above the official valuation For citizenship, an official valuation report is required. If the agreed price is much higher than the valuation, you may overpay or face problems with your application.

6. Off-plan projects without proper permits For new projects, check the building permit, the developer's track record and whether the contract protects you if delivery is late.

7. "We will handle everything, no need for a lawyer" Independent advice costs little compared with the price of a property. Your adviser should work for you, not for the seller.

How Legit Law can help We check the title deed, the seller, the contract and the payment route before you commit. [Contact us](/contact) before paying any deposit.

*This article is general information only, not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change; please contact us for advice on your situation.*