Turkey continues to attract thousands of expats every year — for its sunshine, affordable lifestyle, welcoming culture, and convenient location between Europe and Asia.
But if you’re planning to live here for more than a few months, one big question always comes up:

👉 Should you rent or buy property in Turkey?

Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of both options — and help you decide what fits your lifestyle and financial goals best.

Why Expats Choose Turkey

Before comparing renting and buying, it’s important to understand why Turkey is so popular among expats in 2025:

• Relatively low cost of living
• Mild climate and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle
• Residency options through property purchase
• Large expat communities in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, Bodrum, and Fethiye
• Excellent medical services and infrastructure

Now let’s dive into the decision: rent or buy?

🏠 Buying Property in Turkey

✅ Advantages

1. Residency Rights
   • Buying property gives you the right to apply for short- or long-term residence permits (ikamet).
   • With continuous residence and property ownership, it can even lead to Turkish citizenship after a certain period.
2. Strong Investment Potential
   • Property values in major cities and coastal areas continue to rise.
   • In 2025, foreign demand and local urban transformation projects keep pushing values up steadily.
3. Stable Home Base
   • No rent increases or landlord restrictions.
   • You can decorate, renovate, or even rent it out when you’re abroad.
4. Income Opportunity
   • Many expats buy a second property to rent seasonally via Airbnb or Booking.com.

❌ Disadvantages

1. Upfront Costs
   • You’ll need cash for the purchase, taxes, notary fees, and translation costs.
   • Foreigners usually pay around 4–6% extra in total fees.
2. Limited Flexibility
   • Selling property in Turkey can take time.
   • Not ideal if you plan to move often or stay less than 2–3 years.
3. Maintenance Costs
   • As an owner, you pay for apartment management fees (aidat), repairs, and utilities.

🏡 Renting Property in Turkey

✅ Advantages

1. Low Initial Cost
   • Usually you pay 1–2 months’ rent as deposit and the current month upfront.
   • No taxes, no long-term commitment.
2. Flexibility
   • Easy to move between cities — from cosmopolitan Istanbul to relaxed Antalya or cultural Ankara.
   • Perfect for those who want to explore before settling permanently.
3. No Maintenance or Ownership Expenses
   • The landlord covers major repairs and taxes.
   • You pay only utilities and monthly rent.

❌ Disadvantages

1. Rent Increases
   • Rental prices have risen significantly in recent years, especially in big cities and resort areas.
   • Annual increases are limited by the government but still add up.
2. Limited Control
   • You can’t renovate or make major changes without landlord approval.
   • Lease renewal depends on the owner’s consent.
3. No Residency by Renting
   • Renters can apply for residence permits, but property ownership gives more stability and longer renewal chances.

💰 Cost Comparison (2025 Averages)

(Based on current 2025 listings and Mavi Emlak market data.)

🌿 So, Which Is Better for Expats?

🏡 Expert Tip from Mavi Emlak

If you’re an expat new to Turkey, consider this approach:

1. Rent for 6–12 months to explore neighborhoods and understand the market.
2. Work with a trusted local real estate advisor to evaluate property options.
3. Buy once you’re confident about your preferred location and budget.

At Mavi Emlak, we help foreigners navigate every step — from legal paperwork to finding the right home or investment property.