How to Choose Real Estate in Turkey: A Practical Guide for Foreign Buyers

Property Rights: Turkey Offers Secure Ownership

Unlike Thailand, where foreigners can't own land, or the UAE, where property ownership is typically leasehold (up to 50 years), Turkey grants foreigners full ownership rights, equal to Turkish citizens. This makes Turkey a highly attractive destination for those seeking stability and legal security.

Define Your Purpose: It Determines the City and Property Type

Before buying, it's crucial to define why you need property in Turkey:

  • 55% of buyers are families seeking residency (ikamet), a "safe haven," and the option to rent out their property;
  • 35% are investors targeting citizenship through property purchase (from $400,000);
  • The remaining 10% treat real estate purely as an investment asset.

Your goal defines your location:

  • Antalya and Alanya are perfect for living, vacationing, and rental income;
  • Istanbul is ideal for business-minded buyers, but not for a relaxed lifestyle;
  • Izmir and Mersin are up-and-coming markets with great potential.

Market Trends: Stability vs. Hype

Unlike the UAE, where prices are often inflated, Turkey’s real estate market is stable and predictable. Prices grew by up to 30% in 2021–2022, but in 2024–2025, growth has cooled — especially in Alanya, where foreign demand used to dominate.

In contrast, Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir show minor fluctuations in USD prices, indicating a mature market.

⚠️ Since October 2023, the minimum threshold to obtain Turkish residency via property (TAPU) has increased to $200,000, affecting buyer behavior and location choices.

Investment Potential: Rental Yields and Capital Growth

Taking inflation into account, the average rental yield offers a 13-year payback period, excluding property appreciation. In high-demand tourist zones with limited supply, this makes real estate especially attractive.

Key Factors When Choosing a Property:

  • Liquidity — how quickly and profitably you can sell it later;
  • Location — proximity to the sea, transport, schools, and amenities;
  • Developer & complex quality — crucial for comfort and resale value;
  • Reliable partner — a local agency that knows the market inside out.

Why Work with a Local Real Estate Agency

  • Only local experts know the true prices and promising areas;
  • Honest selection based on your goals and budget — from $150,000 for a sea-view apartment;
  • The resale market is rarely online — the best deals are snapped up before being listed;
  • Reservation deposits are required to hold a property — essential for remote purchases.

✅ Tip: Work with one trusted agency. We scan the entire market, including listings from other agents, always putting your interests first.

Final Thoughts

Buying property in Turkey is profitable — if you approach it wisely. Define your goals, choose the right city, and work with a reliable partner to safeguard your investment and maximize long-term benefits.

Contact us — we’ll help you find the best options based on your goals and budget.

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