Kalkan, with its turquoise waters, whitewashed villas, and Mediterranean charm, has become one of the most attractive destinations for British property buyers. Whether you dream of building a holiday villa or making a long-term investment, buying land in Kalkan can be a rewarding experience — if you follow the right steps.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 2025 process of buying land in Kalkan as a UK citizen, from legal requirements to practical tips.
Contents
1. Understand Who Can Buy Land in Turkey
As of 2025, British citizens can legally buy land in Turkey, provided it’s within permitted zones (not in military or restricted areas). There’s a reciprocity agreement in place, and the Turkish Land Registry (Tapu ve Kadastro Genel Müdürlüğü) regulates all transactions.
Important: Foreigners cannot buy agricultural land in certain rural areas. In Kalkan, most plots available for foreigners are zoned for residential or touristic development.
2. Work With a Reputable Local Agent
Local expertise is key. A registered real estate agent familiar with the Kalkan area can help identify available plots, check zoning status, and ensure there are no legal complications. Look for agents affiliated with local chambers or real estate associations.
3. Hire a Lawyer
While not mandatory, hiring a bilingual real estate lawyer is strongly recommended. They’ll conduct a title deed check (Tapu search), verify building permissions, and ensure no encumbrances like debts or mortgages exist on the land.
4. Get a Turkish Tax Number
You’ll need a Turkish tax number (Vergi Numarası) to open a bank account and complete the purchase. It can be obtained easily at a local tax office in Turkey or online with your passport.
5. Open a Turkish Bank Account
A Turkish bank account is necessary to process payments and handle related taxes. Many banks in the region are used to working with foreigners and offer English-language services.
6. Sign a Sales Contract and Pay a Deposit
Once your lawyer gives the green light, a reservation contract is signed, and typically a 10% deposit is paid. The final deed transfer is handled at the Land Registry Office (Tapu Dairesi).
7. Register the Land in Your Name
On transfer day, both buyer and seller must be present (or represented via a power of attorney). The new title deed will be issued in your name and officially recorded.
8. Be Aware of Costs
Besides the land price, expect these additional costs:
- Title deed transfer tax: 4% of the declared value
- Legal fees
- Real estate agent commission: ~3%
- Translator fees (if required at the Tapu office)
Conclusion
Buying land in Kalkan as a British citizen in 2025 is very much possible — and often simpler than expected. With professional guidance and due diligence, you can secure a stunning plot in one of Turkey’s most scenic towns and start turning your Mediterranean dreams into reality.
