Komisyon (Commission) in Turkish real estate – explained simply

A fee paid to agents or brokers.

Komisyon (commission) is the fee charged by real estate agents, brokers, or agencies in Turkey for facilitating property transactions. It is typically a percentage of the property’s sale price.

Unlike some countries, Turkey does not have a fixed legal rate, so terms should be clearly outlined in contracts before proceeding.

Fully negotiable, no fixed legal rate.

Turkish law does not set a fixed komisyon rate. This means the fee is entirely negotiable between the parties and the agent or agency.

Always document the agreed rate in the contract to prevent unexpected charges later.

Usually at contract signing or transfer.

The komisyon is typically paid upon signing the sales contract or at the title deed (tapu) transfer. Some agents may request a deposit upfront.

Payment timing should be clarified in the agreement. Delays in transfer (e.g., due to paperwork) might affect when the full fee is due.

Foreign buyers using a lawyer should ensure the contract specifies the exact payment stage to avoid confusion.

Possible but rare without an agent.

Technically, you can avoid komisyon by purchasing directly from the seller (e.g., private sales, developer deals). However, this is uncommon for foreigners due to language and legal barriers.

Agents often provide critical services like due diligence, negotiations, and paperwork, which justify the fee. Skipping an agent may risk overlooked legal or financial issues.

Some developers offer zero-commission deals to attract buyers, but these are promotional and not standard.

Not legally, but practices may differ.

By law, agents cannot charge higher komisyon solely because a buyer is foreign. However, some agencies may quote higher rates to non-Turkish speakers due to perceived complexity.

Foreign buyers should compare multiple agents and request written fee breakdowns. In tourist-heavy regions (e.g., Antalya, Fethiye), competition often keeps rates fair.

Working with a reputable, English-speaking agent can help ensure transparency in pricing.

Legal disputes or delayed transfer.

Refusing to pay an agreed komisyon can lead to contractual disputes or delayed property transfer. Agents may withhold documents or report non-payment to authorities.

If the fee was not clearly agreed upon, buyers can negotiate or seek mediation. However, Turkish courts generally uphold written contracts.

Foreign buyers should never sign without a clear fee clause and consult a lawyer if disputes arise.

Most do, but some models differ.

Nearly all traditional agents in Turkey charge komisyon, but alternatives exist. Some online platforms or discount brokers offer lower fees or flat-rate services.

Developers selling off-plan properties may absorb agent fees to attract buyers. However, these cases are exceptions, not the norm.

Foreign buyers should verify whether an agent’s “no commission” claim applies to all services or has hidden conditions.

Based on total price, not installments.

For off-plan properties, komisyon is calculated on the full purchase price, not individual installments. Even if payments are staged, the agent’s fee is typically due upfront or at contract signing.

Some developers include the commission in the price, while others let buyers pay it separately. Clarify this before committing.

Foreign buyers should check whether the quoted price is net or includes komisyon to compare deals accurately.