Hi all, We have purchased an off-plan apt in turkey, and have instructed a firm of solicitors who are charging £1175. They are asking this to be paid in one go upfront. Is this normal? I always thought you paid as you went along but this is our first time buying abroad and we are not sure. We don't want to pay everying in one go if this is not the way it should be done. Any advice more than welcome. K
They may well attempt to push you to settling partially or fully in advance - you do not have to go along with that. Firstly make absolutely certain you have their outline of charges successful purchase or not in writing on their company letter headed paper. (BTW) you should insist this letter is in English.
If you feel comfortable in making a goodwill payment of a small percentage by all means do so but they are providing you a service, they are not doing you a favour no matter how pleasant the foreign version of Mr Cheatem may appear. Remember, the only person you are likely to meet in the whole of this transaction more poisonous than the agent is the lawyer. Who supplied the lawyer? Please don't tell me the agent or he is based locally to the agent or developer. ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS APPOINT YOUR OWN MAN. NEVER EVER EVER USE THE ENEMIES.
Contact the British embassy or consulate they will probably supply you with a list of English speaking legal advisors. If possible choose one of the big city options (less chance of them being in the pocket of the developer - but still not 100% guaranteed) Wish you luck.
