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As we step into the year 2024, the real estate landscape in Turkey continues to evolve, presenting both challenges and opportunities for investors, homeowners, and industry stakeholders.
In this article, we will give you a clear picture of what's happening in Turkey's real estate scene for the year ahead.
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How's the Turkish economy doing?
Current state
Turkey's economy and stability have historically been fluctuating, influenced by various internal and external factors.
This volatility has directly impacted the real estate market.
The Turkish real estate market has generally shown resilience, with growth in certain periods. However, economic instability, inflation, and currency fluctuation have often affected market dynamics. The housing market, a significant segment of this market, has seen varying degrees of demand and supply imbalances, with periods of rapid construction and development followed by slowdowns.
Government policies in Turkey have played a pivotal role in shaping the housing market.
Historically, these policies have included incentives for developers, tax reductions, and initiatives to boost foreign investment. Recently, the government has focused on sustainable development, urban renewal projects, and easing foreign investment regulations.
This has included simplifying the property buying process for foreigners and offering citizenship for significant investments in real estate.
Significant events impacting the market include the 2001 economic crisis, which led to a market downturn, and the more recent currency fluctuations which have made Turkish real estate more attractive to foreign investors due to the lower cost in foreign currency terms.
Another notable event was the introduction of the law in 2012 that allowed citizens of more countries to buy property in Turkey, significantly boosting foreign investment.
Recently, there have been regulatory changes aimed at streamlining the buying process and promoting foreign investment.
These include amendments in property registration, taxation, and citizenship by investment programs. However, complexities in land registry laws and zoning regulations still exist.
Turkey has become an attractive destination for real estate investment, especially among Middle Eastern investors. The reasons include relatively affordable property prices, a favorable climate, and historical and cultural appeal. Popular areas for investment include Istanbul for its cosmopolitan appeal, Antalya for its coastal properties, and Bursa for its historical significance and natural beauty.
Residential properties, along with commercial real estate like hotels and shopping centers, are highly sought after.
Specific incentives for foreign investors include the possibility of obtaining a residency permit or citizenship, a relatively simple purchasing process, and the potential for rental income and capital appreciation. However, drawbacks include the potential for legal complexities, the impact of currency fluctuations on investment value, and the need to navigate a different business culture and legal system.
Comparing real estate prices in Turkey to neighboring or similar countries, they are generally more affordable, offering better value for money, particularly in terms of larger properties or those in prime locations.
However, this varies depending on the region and property type.
The legal framework surrounding real estate investment in Turkey has been evolving towards greater transparency and efficiency. However, challenges remain in terms of bureaucratic processes and ensuring clear title deeds.
Prospective investors are advised to conduct thorough due diligence and possibly engage local legal expertise to navigate these complexities.
Outlook and forecast
Turkey's real estate market has unique factors setting it apart.
These include a strategic geographic location straddling Europe and Asia, a large and relatively young population, and a diverse range of properties, from historic homes to modern developments.
Additionally, the Turkish government's aggressive push to attract foreign investment through incentives like citizenship by investment programs is quite distinctive.
Forecasting Turkey's economy and stability is complex, given its history of economic volatility and geopolitical position.
Nevertheless, based on current trends, the forecast seems cautiously optimistic but not without challenges. The Turkish economy has shown resilience and adaptability, yet it remains susceptible to external pressures like global economic trends and internal challenges like inflation and political stability.
Cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir are traditionally at the forefront of economic growth.
However, regions like Antalya and the Black Sea area are experiencing rapid growth due to tourism and foreign investment in real estate. Compared to regional neighbors, Turkey's economic growth has been robust, but it faces stiff competition from countries with more stable economies and political landscapes.
Regarding government policies in 2024, while specific policy changes are uncertain, trends suggest a continuation of efforts to attract foreign investment.
This could include further relaxation of investment regulations, enhanced incentives for large-scale investors, and possibly new urban development projects.
Signs suggesting improvements in Turkey's economy include increasing foreign direct investment, growth in sectors like tourism and technology, and ongoing infrastructure projects like new transportation networks.
These developments could boost the real estate market by increasing demand for both commercial and residential properties.
However, potential risks are substantial and should not be overlooked. These include political instability, currency fluctuation, and potential over-dependence on foreign investment in the real estate sector. Other risks include changes in global economic conditions affecting tourism and foreign investment flows.
If these risks materialize, they could lead to reduced demand in the real estate market, price volatility, and possible legal and financial challenges for investors.
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What about housing prices in Turkey?
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Current state
Over the past few years, Turkey's real estate prices have generally been on an upward trend, but this growth hasn't been uniform across the country.
The trend in real estate prices has closely mirrored the nation's economic fortunes and has been sensitive to both domestic and international events.
During economic crises, such as the 2008 global financial crisis and the more recent currency fluctuations in Turkey, real estate prices typically faced downward pressure. Conversely, in times of economic boom, especially when coupled with high foreign investment inflows, there's been a noticeable increase in property values.
For example, the period following the 2008 crisis saw a significant upswing in prices due to economic recovery and increased foreign investment, particularly from the Middle East.
Comparing current real estate prices with those a decade ago reveals a significant increase.
However, this increase must be viewed in the context of inflation and currency devaluation. In real terms, while there's been growth, it's not as dramatic as nominal figures might suggest. Currently, real estate prices are showing a mixed pattern. In some areas, especially major cities and tourist destinations, prices are rising.
In contrast, in other regions, particularly where there's oversupply or less economic activity, prices are more stable or even declining.
The regions experiencing the highest growth in real estate prices include Istanbul, Antalya, and parts of the Aegean coast. Istanbul's growth is driven by its status as Turkey's economic and cultural hub, attracting both domestic and international buyers.
Antalya and the Aegean region's growth is fueled by their popularity as tourist destinations and the consequent demand for vacation and rental properties.
Urban and rural real estate prices in Turkey show a significant disparity. Urban areas, particularly in cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara, command much higher prices due to higher demand and greater economic activity. Rural areas, while offering more affordable options, have less demand and limited economic opportunities, which keeps prices relatively lower.
Several factors are driving these trends in real estate prices. Economic stability, currency valuation, foreign investment levels, and government policies play substantial roles. Additionally, demographic factors like urbanization, with more people moving to cities for jobs and education, increase demand in urban areas.
Infrastructure development also plays a critical role; areas with improved connectivity and amenities often see a rise in property values.
Lastly, the international appeal of Turkey, with its cultural and natural attractions, continues to drive demand in specific regions, particularly from foreign buyers looking for holiday homes or investment opportunities.
Outlook and forecast
Several economic and demographic factors are influencing the current state of real estate prices in Turkey.
Firstly, inflation and currency value play a crucial role. The Turkish Lira's fluctuation against major currencies affects purchasing power and investment attractiveness. A weaker Lira can make real estate more attractive to foreign investors due to lower relative prices in their home currencies.
Demographically, Turkey's large and relatively young population drives demand for housing.
Urbanization trends, with more people moving to cities for employment and education, also significantly impact real estate prices in urban areas. Additionally, the increasing middle class in Turkey contributes to growing demand for housing, particularly in urban and suburban areas.
Several factors could lead to an increase in housing prices in Turkey in the near future.
Continued foreign investment, particularly if the government maintains or strengthens incentives for foreign buyers, could be a key driver. Infrastructure developments, such as new transportation routes or urban renewal projects, typically boost property values in the affected areas.
An improving global economic climate could also lead to increased tourism and foreign investment in Turkish real estate, particularly in tourist-friendly areas like Istanbul, the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts.
However, this potential increase in prices may not be uniform across all regions.
Areas with high tourism appeal or significant infrastructure development are more likely to see price increases than more rural or less economically dynamic regions.
Conversely, several factors could lead to a decrease in housing prices in the near future. Economic instability, such as sustained high inflation or further devaluation of the Lira, could reduce domestic purchasing power and dampen the real estate market.
Political instability or significant changes in government policy that negatively impact investor confidence could also lead to price decreases.
Additionally, an oversupply of housing, particularly in areas that have seen rapid development without corresponding demand, could result in lower prices.
The impact of these potential decreases would likely be more pronounced in certain regions. For instance, areas that have experienced speculative building booms without sufficient demand, such as some suburban or newly developed areas, might be more vulnerable to price decreases.
Similarly, regions heavily dependent on foreign investment could be more affected by global economic shifts or changes in foreign investor sentiment.
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How's the demand for the real estate market in Turkey?
Current state
The current demand for residential real estate in Turkey varies across different regions, but overall, there's a healthy level of demand, particularly in major cities and tourist destinations.
The balance between buyers and sellers isn't uniform throughout the country. In areas like Istanbul, Izmir, and parts of the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, demand is robust, often driven by a mix of local buyers, expatriates, and international investors.
In contrast, in some rural or less developed regions, there may be more sellers than buyers, leading to a surplus of properties on the market.
The supply of new housing is trying to keep pace with this demand, but there are discrepancies. In major urban areas and tourist hotspots, there's a significant amount of new development, much of it targeting middle to upper-income buyers and foreign investors. This includes luxury apartments, villas, and modern housing complexes with various amenities.
However, in some cases, this has led to an oversupply, especially in areas where development has outpaced actual demand.
Buyers in Turkey are looking for a range of properties, but there's a noticeable trend towards modern, well-located apartments in urban areas and holiday homes along the coast.
Amenities such as proximity to public transport, quality of construction, and facilities like swimming pools and fitness centers are increasingly valued, especially among middle and upper-income buyers.
The current interest rates for mortgages in Turkey are relatively high compared to some Western countries, which affects buying power and demand. High-interest rates can deter some potential buyers, especially those who are highly dependent on financing for their purchase. This can lead to a stronger market for cash buyers, including many foreign investors who may not require financing.
Recent changes in government policies and regulations have had a notable impact on the real estate market.
The Turkish government has implemented various measures to stimulate the market and attract foreign investment. These include tax incentives, easier property buying processes for foreigners, and citizenship by investment programs. Moreover, there have been subsidies and support programs for first-time homebuyers, aimed at boosting domestic demand.
However, changes in zoning laws and urban development regulations have also played a role, sometimes leading to controversies and debates over urban planning and environmental impact.
Outlook and forecast
Demographic shifts in Turkey, such as aging populations and increased urbanization, are significantly influencing the real estate market.
Urbanization, in particular, is a major driver. As more people move to cities for employment and education opportunities, the demand for urban housing increases. This demand primarily favors apartments and condominiums in city centers or well-connected suburbs.
The aging population also creates specific demands, such as smaller, more manageable properties, often in quieter, more accessible areas.
Current trends in household formation in Turkey, such as smaller family units and an increasing number of single-person households, are impacting the types of properties in demand.
There's a growing preference for smaller apartments or homes, particularly among young professionals and the elderly. This shift aligns with global urban trends, where space is at a premium and lifestyle preferences lean towards convenience and accessibility.
In terms of real estate as an investment, there's a clear trend towards buying properties for rental income and capital appreciation.
Apartments in major cities, particularly in Istanbul, are popular investment choices due to their potential for rental income and value appreciation. There's also interest in buying properties in tourist areas like Antalya and Bodrum, where short-term vacation rentals can be lucrative.
Cultural trends also influence the housing market in Turkey.
For example, there's a growing awareness and preference for eco-friendly and sustainable living. This trend is slowly influencing demand, with an increased interest in properties that offer green spaces, energy efficiency, and sustainable construction practices.
However, this is still a niche market compared to the broader real estate sector.
Regarding the role of foreign investment, it's significant in the Turkish real estate market. Foreign buyers often look for holiday homes or investment properties, particularly in coastal regions and major cities. This demand tends to skew towards luxury apartments and villas, especially in areas with high tourist appeal.
The government encourages this through various incentives, such as granting residency or citizenship for substantial real estate investments, which boosts demand in these segments.
Foreign investors face some restrictions but also receive encouragements in the Turkish real estate market.
While there are limits on where and how much land they can buy, the process for foreign buyers has been streamlined in recent years. The citizenship by investment program, in particular, has been a significant encouragement, leading to increased demand for properties that qualify under this scheme.
Within the Turkish real estate market, there are niche segments experiencing unique trends. The luxury property market, for instance, continues to grow, driven by both domestic wealth and foreign investment. These properties, often located in prime urban or coastal areas, offer high-end amenities and exclusivity.
Another niche is the market for eco-friendly and sustainable homes, which, while smaller, is growing due to increased environmental awareness and desire for sustainable living options.
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How's the rental market in Turkey?
Current state
The current demand for rental properties in Turkey is robust, particularly in urban areas and cities with large student and expatriate populations.
The types of properties in demand vary significantly depending on location and demographic factors.
In major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, there's a high demand for apartments, which are preferred due to their accessibility, convenience, and, often, their proximity to work and educational institutions. In these urban areas, features such as location, ease of transportation, and proximity to amenities like shopping centers and entertainment venues are highly valued by tenants.
Apartments closer to business districts or universities tend to be in higher demand.
As for the features most sought after, tenants often look for properties that offer a good balance of size, modern amenities, and affordability.
In urban settings, smaller apartments that are well-designed and include amenities like air conditioning, internet connectivity, and security are popular, especially among young professionals and students. The presence of communal spaces like gyms or pools can also be attractive, though these features are more common in mid to high-end rental properties.
In suburban areas, the demand shifts slightly. Here, tenants often look for larger spaces, possibly including single-family homes or larger apartments.
These areas attract families who are seeking more living space, outdoor areas, and a community environment. Proximity to schools and parks, as well as ease of access to urban centers, are important factors for these tenants.
Rural areas have a different rental market dynamic. The demand here is generally lower compared to urban and suburban areas, and the properties often include standalone houses. Tenants in these areas might prioritize features like space, privacy, and a connection to nature.
However, the lower demand in rural areas means there's less variety and fewer rental properties available.
Demographic characteristics of tenants vary by region. In university towns or districts, students make up a large portion of the rental market. Young professionals often seek rentals in or near city centers or business districts. Families tend to look for rentals in quieter, suburban areas where larger homes with more space are available.
Retirees may prefer quieter areas, possibly in coastal regions known for their natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle.
Income levels and economic factors significantly influence the type of properties being rented. Higher-income individuals or expatriates might opt for luxury apartments or houses in prestigious areas, while middle-income tenants tend to look for affordable yet comfortable apartments.
Lower-income tenants might be limited to smaller apartments or older buildings in less central locations.
Certain regions in Turkey have a high concentration of specific tenant groups. For example, areas close to universities have a high concentration of student renters. Business districts in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara attract young professionals.
Coastal regions like Antalya or the Aegean coast are popular among retirees and holiday renters.
Outlook and forecast
The rental market in Turkey is influenced by a variety of factors, with urbanization, demographic shifts, and evolving lifestyles being the most significant.
The trend of urbanization has led to increased demand for rental properties in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. These urban centers, offering more employment and education opportunities, naturally attract a larger renting demographic, including students, young professionals, and families.
Evolving lifestyles and work patterns, especially the rise of remote work, are starting to influence rental preferences.
With more people able to work from anywhere, there's a growing demand for rental properties that offer dedicated workspaces or are located in quieter, more spacious environments. This trend might lead to increased demand for rentals in suburban areas or smaller cities that previously weren't as popular.
Specific cities or regions experiencing demographic changes include Antalya and the Aegean coastal areas.
These regions, known for their pleasant climate and scenic beauty, are attracting not only tourists but also retirees and remote workers, reflecting in their rental markets with increased demand for short-term and long-term rentals.
Emerging urban areas becoming new hotspots for rental properties include cities like Bursa and Gaziantep.
These cities, due to their growing economies and cultural significance, are attracting a younger demographic, thus stimulating the rental market. The demand in these areas is for modern, affordable apartments catering to young professionals and families.
Current technological advancements and innovations are significantly impacting the rental market.
The rise of online rental platforms has made it easier for landlords to market their properties and for tenants to find suitable accommodations. Smart home technologies are increasingly sought after in rental properties, with tenants valuing features like high-speed internet, smart security systems, and energy-efficient appliances.
There's a growing trend towards sustainability and green living, influencing the rental market. Renters, especially younger generations, are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact and seek properties with eco-friendly features like solar panels, energy-efficient designs, and green spaces.
While this trend is still emerging in Turkey, it's expected to grow, particularly in urban areas.
The rental market forecast varies across different regions of Turkey. In major cities and tourist destinations, the demand is expected to remain strong due to continuous urbanization and tourism.
However, in more rural or economically stagnant areas, the rental market might see less growth.
The long-term outlook for the rental market in Turkey, considering these factors, seems positive, especially in urban and emerging areas. The ongoing urbanization, coupled with demographic shifts and changing lifestyles, points towards a steady demand for rental properties.
The growing interest in eco-friendly living and technological advancements is likely to shape the future of rental properties, with an increasing number of properties adapting to these new demands.
Regarding niche markets, luxury properties in prime locations and eco-fraiendly homes are experiencing unique trends.
The luxury rental market, particularly in cities like Istanbul and coastal areas, is driven by high-income individuals and expatriates seeking exclusive amenities. The eco-friendly segment, while still niche, is growing, driven by increased environmental awareness and a desire for sustainable living options.
These niche markets are expected to expand and evolve, reflecting broader trends in the economy and society.
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This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.