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1. What is the weather like in Turkey? Mediterranean and Aegean coasts enjoy hot and long summers and relatively mild winters; the Black Sea coast is hot and humid in summer but it is not as long as south coasts. It gets cold and quite wet in winter. The north west of Turkey including Istanbul can get very hot in summer and cold in winters. 2. What is the political and economic situation in Turkey? Turkey is showing an excellent economic performance. This is a reflection of the political stability of the country as a whole. The country's progress in recent years has been remarkable. The benefits of the government's commitment to its economic program are clearly visible. Much has been achieved since the current reform program was started. The challenge now is to build on those achievements and exploit Turkey's potential as a rapidly-growing and increasingly sophisticated economy. Turkey's system of government is based on free and democratic elections. 3. Are there any restrictions on foreigners purchasing in Turkey? They exist only in rural areas and military zones. All the properties shown in the Vantage Turkey web site are free of any such restrictions. 4. Property transactions and ownership may involve a range of local professional services: lawyers, surveyors, letting managers, bankers, builders, etc. What is the best way of getting in touch with reputable service providers? Vantage team understand that purchasing property is an inherently complex process, made worse by foreign language, laws and customs. Every member of the Vantage team will be glad to assist our clients through all stages of the selection, purchasing and post-purchase care for your property. In addition to our own local staff, in every Turkish region, we work with a range of reputable partners, proven and tested through dealing with clients and issues on a daily basis. 5. How many visits does it take to close a deal? It depends on the client. Vantage staff always advise to clients to take as much time as necessary to make themselves comfortable with their choice of property. At the same time, our team understand the pressures of modern lifestyles. If you want, with your legal authorisation, the whole transaction can be completed while you are in the UK or Ireland. 6. What is the typicall payment plan for new developments? The buyer will normally pay reservation fee and 30% as a deposit within four weeks. Some developers might offer stage payments, often with a degree of flexibility towards buyer's own personal circumstances. All these terms are agreed at the time of purchase. 7. What documents are required to purchase a property in Turkey? Buyer’s passport(s), which need to be copied and translated into Turkish, as well as passport sized photographs. The public notary’s office works in conjunction with the Land Registry Office and the Aegean Army. The translated documents will be checked by the Army to ensure there is no record of criminal intent or activity against the Turkish state. 8. How complicated is the buying process in Turkey? The process consists of the following steps: * Choose a suitable property; * Negotiate a price and reserve the property; * Draw up / consider a contract acceptable to both parties; * Arrange for a convenient method of payment and pay the deposit; * Sign and exchange contracts in the presence of a notary public; * Submit relevant documents to Local Land Registry Office; * Obtain Military Zone clearance; * Pay the insurance; * Register the sale with the tax authorities; * Pay the tax bill. 9. What are the costs in relation to the purchase? * Notary Public fees, generally between £100 and £200; * Property Registry Fees, usually 50% of the notary public fee; * Compulsory Earthquake Insurance, subject to valuation; * The standard agent's commission of 3%; * Sales Tax of 1.5% for both the seller and the buyer; * Purchase Tax of 0.3% purchase tax. 10. Is it hard to find an English speaking lawyer in Turkey? Vantage Turkey works with a number of experienced English speaking lawyers. Naturally, clients can use any solicitor of their choice based in the UK or elsewhere. 11. Is there a good range of English speaking banks in Turkey? There are many banks where English is widely spoken. Vantage staff will be happy to recommend some of them. It is easy to open a bank account and you can hold both Turkish Lira and Sterling accounts. 12. How many British people live in Turkey? There are about 15.000 British people living in Turkey. The most popular areas are the Bodrum Peninsula, Fethiye area, Kalkan, Kas and Didim. With sales as high as they were in 2004/5, this figure will increase substantially. There are also plenty of ex-pats in all major cities. 13. How many British People invest in Turkey? About half of the British people bought in Turkey for pure investment so far. In 2006 it’s expected that 10.000 British will purchase property in Turkey and more than half of them will buy to invest. 14. Why is Turkey a good investment destination? If you compare Turkey with other Mediterranean countries, the properties are much cheaper and of higher quality. Some of the most exciting developments in Europe are taking place in Turkey. There are many direct flights from all parts of Europe. Turkey already started negotiations to join EU. Property prices are likely to rise dramatically for at least 10 years. Some investors have achieved 100% gains in only one year. Rental prospects are excellent, and some properties yield as much as 30% per annum. 15. What facilities are there on a typical development? Depending on the development, clients may find communal or private swimming pools, tennis courts, Turkish baths, spa rooms and easy access to golf courses. 16. What should I expect to pay in management fees? This varies from development to development. Typically, owners pay around £30 a month for security and cleaning of the site and the pool. 17. How can I pay my utility bills, if my main home is not in Turkey? The easiest way to pay the electricity and other bills is by direct debit via a bank in Turkey. At present, all water bills are paid directly to the local Belediye office. Arrangements can be made with the developers regarding the payment of utility bills. 18. What are the rental prospects like? The rental prospect are very good. The main season starts in April and finishes in October, but lower-rate winter rents are not uncommon. 19. How can I furnish my property? Many developers offer furniture packs. Alternatively, Vantage staff can help you or advise you of one of the ex-pats we are working with. There is a wide range of furniture shops to explore and prices are lower than in the UK. 20. How do the local people treat foreigners who purchase in Turkey? Turkish people are extremely hospitable and friendly. They will welcome foreigners and will be delight to help them. Turkey is a family orientated society and children are welcome almost everywhere. 21. Is Turkey safe? Turkey is a very safe country and has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe. 22. What is the local healthcare like? The standard is generally very good. All foreigners have to pay for medical treatment and there are reciprocal private health plans available from the UK/ROI which will be accepted in the private hospitals. Foreigners can purchase health plans in Turkey up to the age of 55 years. 23. What are the local schools and colleges like? As a resident, you can send your children to either public or private schools. Both of them offer a good standard of education. There are also private schools with native English speaking teachers. These typically cater pupils from all over the world. 24. How high are the general costs of living? Fresh food is a great value for money. You’ll find most items much cheaper than in the UK, with the exception of perhaps fuel. 25. What is eating out like? Turkey has very rich and diverse cuisine and prices are at least P lower than in Britain. Turkey is a Muslim country, but pork can still be found in some restaurants and shops. There is a wide choice of other meats, seafood and vegetables. As well as Turkish cuisine, you will be able to sample English, Italian and French food. 26. If I move to Turkey, can I take my dog/cat with me? Yes you can. You must first obtain a ‘pet passport’ and vets documents. For more information you can call UK - The Pets Travel Scheme on 08702 411710. In the ROI please`call The Animal Health and Welfare Division on 01 607 2827. 27. Can I work in Turkey? Yes, you can, but you must obtain a work permit. 28. Why choose Vantage Turkey? Vantage team understand that purchasing property is an inherently complex process, made worse by foreign language, laws and customs. Every member of staff will assist you through all stages of the selection, purchasing and post-purchase care for their property. Whether you are looking for a family retreat or a return on your investment, the Vantage friendly and professional staff will be glad to help. The team consists of both British and Turkish property, legal and financial experts and Vantage's dual presence, both in the UK and Turkey, makes the Company ideally positioned to provide an optimal service to its clients. Back to the top |
