The costs of buying an apartment in Maltepe, beyond the price

The asking price is the biggest number, but it is not the only one. Buyers who budget for the extra costs of buying an apartment in Maltepe from the start avoid an uncomfortable surprise at the Land Registry. Here is what to expect, who usually pays, and what keeps costing money once the flat is yours.

Costs at the title deed transfer

Title deed fee

The title deed fee (tapu harcı) is 4% of the sale value declared at the Land Registry. By law it is shared between buyer and seller, 2% each, although in practice the split is part of the negotiation. Make sure your agreement says who pays what.

Valuation report

Foreign buyers need a valuation report from a licensed appraisal company before the transfer. The appraiser visits the flat and confirms its market value. The fee is fixed by the company and paid by the buyer.

Earthquake insurance

DASK, the compulsory earthquake insurance, must be in place before the deed can be transferred. The premium depends on the size of the flat and how the building was constructed, and it is renewed every year.

Translator, notary and documents

If you do not speak Turkish, a sworn translator must attend the title deed appointment. Add notary fees for translated passport copies and, if someone signs for you, a power of attorney.

VAT on new builds

Some sales of new flats carry VAT, and the rate depends on the flat and the circumstances of the sale. The simplest protection is to ask for every price with VAT included, in writing, before you compare.

The agency fee

Agency fees in Istanbul are agreed between the agent and the client. A good agent puts the fee in writing before the first viewing, so it never becomes a surprise later.

Running costs after you buy

• Building fee (aidat): the monthly charge for cleaning, lifts, security and shared facilities. In large complexes with pools and gyms it can be significant, so ask for the current amount.
• Property tax (emlak vergisi): paid yearly to the municipality, in two instalments.
• DASK renewal: every year.
• Utilities: electricity, water and natural gas, transferred into your name after the purchase.

A simple way to budget the costs of buying an apartment in Maltepe

Exact amounts change with exchange rates and fee schedules, so treat any percentage you read online as a starting point. When you pick a flat, ask for a written breakdown of every cost on that specific purchase. We prepare one for each buyer before the offer is made, so you know the total before you commit.

For the full process, from the tax number to the title deed, read our guide to buying property in Maltepe as a foreigner.