Moving to Türkiye as an expat brings exciting opportunities — from coastal living on the Mediterranean to cosmopolitan life in Istanbul. One of the most crucial steps in settling down is finding the right real estate agency to help navigate the property market. Türkiye’s real estate landscape is diverse, and the right agency can make the difference between a seamless experience and a frustrating ordeal.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to choose a real estate agency in Türkiye as an expat:
1. Choose an Agency with Experience in Serving Expats
Agencies that have worked with foreign nationals understand the unique challenges expats face — such as language barriers, unfamiliar legal procedures, and cultural differences. Look for agencies that:
- Advertise services in English or other common expat languages.
- Have client testimonials from international buyers or renters.
- Offer assistance with residency permits, tax ID numbers, and bank account
setup.
2. Verify Legal Accreditation and Licenses
Only licensed real estate agents can legally operate in Türkiye. Always check that the agency is registered with:
- T.C. Ticaret Bakanlığı (Ministry of Trade)
- TÜGEM (Real Estate Consultants Association of Turkey)
You can ask for their license number and verify it via the government portal or local chamber of commerce.
3. Look for Transparency in Fees and Contracts
Unclear fees are a red flag. A reliable agency should:
- Provide a breakdown of all commissions and service charges up front.
- Offer bilingual contracts (e.g., Turkish-English).
- Allow time for legal review of any paperwork before signing.
Avoid agencies that pressure you to make immediate decisions or ask for large upfront payments without documentation.
4. Check Online Presence and Reviews
Reputation is key. Check:
- Google Reviews
- Expat forums and Facebook groups (like “Expats in Turkey” or city-specific
groups)
5. Assess the Range of Services Offered
The best agencies don’t just show properties — they guide you through the entire process. Top services include:
- Legal guidance and coordination with notaries
- Utility and internet setup
- Translation services
- After-sales support (especially for property maintenance or renting out)
6. Choose Local Expertise
Whether you’re buying in Istanbul’s urban districts, a village in Cappadocia, or a coastal town in Izmir, local market knowledge is essential. A locally based agent:
- Knows the real market value of properties
- Can negotiate better on your behalf
- Has relationships with developers, landlords, and municipal offices
7. Watch Out for Common Scams
Scams unfortunately do occur, especially targeting foreigners. Red flags include:
- Properties offered at prices too good to be true
- Agents who avoid written contracts
- Sellers demanding cash-only deals or under-the-table payments
- Agencies unwilling to let you speak to the property owner
Choosing the right real estate agency in Türkiye is about more than just finding a home — it’s about finding a trustworthy partner in your relocation journey. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. With the right guidance, your transition to life in Türkiye can be smooth, legal, and enjoyable.
When it comes to navigating Türkiye’s real estate market as an expat, we are as Landmark Titan Realty standing out as an agency known for its and expat-focused services with a professional team.
Specialized in Expat Services
Landmark Titan has extensive experience working with international clients. Their multilingual team provides step-by-step guidance — from property search to legal formalities and relocation support.
Licensed and Transparent
They are fully licensed, government-registered, and committed to full transparency in all dealings. No hidden fees, no last-minute surprises — just honest advice and clear communication.
Comprehensive Support
Beyond just buying or renting, Landmark Titan helps with:
- Residency permits and legal paperwork
- Setting up utilities and banking
- Rental property management for overseas owners
Local Market Expertise
With offices in key cities and deep knowledge of local trends, they offer curated property options tailored to your lifestyle and investment goals.
Strong Reputation Among Expats
Their reputation among expat communities is built on trust, responsiveness, and long-term client relationships.
If you’re looking for a reliable, expat-friendly real estate agency in Türkiye, Landmark Titan Realty is a name worth considering.
Contact us today and take your first confident step toward property ownership or rental in Türkiye.
Phone: +90-850-309-6983
Email: info@landmarktitan.com