Buying in Turkey
Your questions answered

You will have a number of questions and we are more than happy to answer them for you.  To make life easier we have included the most commonly asked questions which will act as a good starting point.

Q:Will the property be freehold ?
A:Yes. All of the properties that ? we sell would be termed as freehold in the UK.

Q:What is the general paying process in Turkey ?
A:Once you have selected the property that you wish to purchase a meeting will be arranged which will be attended by yourselves, the Solicitor, a Translator, the Seller - Builder and a representative of The Turkish Property Investment Group.  At this meeting the contracts will be signed and a nominal reservation fee will be paid.  The schedule of payments will be agreed at this meeting ie: second and final payments and also any penalty clauses for withdrawal by either parties and failure to complete the construction by the stated date.  All documentation that is produced and agreed will also be translated into English.

Q:What documents are required ?
A:You will be required to produce your passport and an additional six passport photographs which can be obtained locally.  Copies of your passport will be taken for use by the authorities in order to progress your wish to purchase in Turkey.  At this point you may consider it appropriate to give power of attorney to our solicitor in order for him to be able to act on your behalf on your return to the UK.  This action will be authorised at the offıce of the Notary in the presence of the translator and a member of The Turkish Property Investment Group.

Q:What is the next step following authorisation ?
A:The solicitor will carry out any checks on the premises to establish the present ownership and to determine that there are no outstanding charges against the property.  Following these checks he will initate the transfer of the deeds into the buyer's name or names.  The property tax is also payed at this stage.

Q:Are Foreign Nationals accepted by the local community ?
A:As more and more foreign nationals come to the country to reside or holiday they are becoming part and parcel of Altinkum and made very welcome.Intigration and understanding on all sides is the key.

Q:What about the healthcare in terms of the standard and costs ?
A:The standard is generally very good. All foreign nationals have to pay for medical treatment and there are reciprocal private health plans available from the UK which will be acepted in the private hospitals.  Health insurance plans can be puchased in Turkey.

Q:How does the general cost of living compare to the UK ?
A:In general most purchases in Turkey are cheaper than in the UK but the exception to this being the purchase of cars and fuel which can be more expensive so shop around.  Fresh vegetables, meat and fish are a must at Saturday's market.  Electrical and white goods compare very favourably with the UK.Restaurants and bars can vary somewhat in both quality and price but most are excellent value for money because they have to compete.  Always be willing to haggle over a price of your purchases, it's almost expected and adds to the charm of Turkey.

Q:If I move to Turkey can I take my pet with me ?
A:Yes.You must first obtain a pet passport and vet's documents in the UK.  Check with your local vet in good time before making your travel arrangements.

Q:What is the goverment system in the country ?
A:It is democratically elected as in the  UK and is a secular state that advocates freedom of religion and worship,Turkey is also one of the five permanent members of NATO.

Q:Can I rent out my property ?
A:Yes.The main season is from the  beginning of May until  the end of October with the busiest months being July and August.  During the winter months it is still possible to rent out properties but the numbers of visitors  are very much reduced.

Q:Are families and children welcome ?
A:Most definitely.  You will find that Turkish people will make a fuss of all children especially should they have blue eyes.

Q:How safe is the country ?
A:Turkey is a safe country with a relatively low crime rate however always be aware and never ever leave valuables on full view.  Common sense is the key.

Q:Is there a good range of banks and are the staff English speaking ?
A:There are many banks where English is spoken especially in the foreign currancy sections.  It is relatively straight forward to open an account in either Iira or Sterling to suit your requirements.  There are also many ATMs with language translations in Altinkum and Didim.

Q:What about schools and colleges ?
A:As a resident you can send your children to your local government or private schools.  Both offer a good standard of education.  The private schools are International and accommodate pupils from all over the world.

Q:What about furnishing my property ?
A:Dependant on the size of your property it can be furnished to a very high standard for between 5000 pound and 10000 pound including all white goods and air conditioning.

Q:Is it necessary to learn the Turkish ?
A:It isn't neccessary especially in the main towns but venture into the more rural areas and a little might go a long way.