Why build your own home in Turkey

Purchasing property in Turkey has become increasingly popular, especially with retirees, vacation homebuyers, and second homebuyers. Sometimes, the focus is whether I should build my home in Turkey or purchase an existing property? The lure is easy to understand. Turkey offers equal beauty, pleasure, history, activities, and attractions as their EU zone counterparts, with the bonus of being much less overcrowded and overdeveloped.

The low housing prices, equal amounts of alluring beauty and plenty of space to build in uncrowded towns are the reason many international homebuyers are making Turkey their location of choice. There is the question of; what is the best way to secure your dream home? In past decades, Turkish real estate often focused more on utility than luxury. But, over the last ten years, Turkey has listened to home buyers like you, and luxury is the new norm throughout Turkey.

This is a fantastic time for any international or local homebuyer to invest in building a house in Turkey. Economic growth, political and social stability, foreign buyer support and an extraordinary culture born from its status as the gateway to Europe, Asia and the Middle East give Turkey a unique position on the world real estate stage. Discerning buyers are joining local second or vacation home buyers in Turkey. So, let’s look at what to know about constructing your dream home.

Why Build Your Custom House in Turkey

The Importance of Using a Real Estate Agent

In all scenarios, secure a trusted and local real estate broker. Your agent will show you land and ensure that you have competent local legal counsel to review all documents and help with the permitting and purchasing processes, ensuring smooth transitions to Turkish home ownership. Perhaps most importantly, good estate agents know the best builders and can give you a short list of builders who will bring your vision to life.

If you decide to build, your local agent will secure your land title. This is an important consideration. Suppose you already hold title to the land, and something goes awry with the construction. In that case, the builder certainly can unbuild what is done, and that structure is yours because it sits on your titled and deeded land. Construction problems are rare, but this increased protection should give you additional peace of mind. Your agent will also help you set up local bank accounts and ensure partial payment schedules for your construction.

Shopping for real estate in your local market is easy because you already know the best neighbourhoods, but using the Internet to shop for real estate in foreign countries is much more challenging. For this reason, the best Turkish real estate companies offer touring trips to prospective home buyers. Once the agent understands your desires, they will build an itinerary including several towns.

You'll have access to excellent accommodations when you aren't touring existing homes or standing on available land plots. Your agent will also almost certainly reserve time during your stay to show you local historic sites. Suppose a real estate company is willing to invest their time in you. In that case, you should have higher confidence in how they will handle your transaction.

Local Architects and Builders in Turkey

Local architects are well-versed in adding the specific features you want, including how to design the spaces surrounding your new home. Ultra-modern technologies are included in all new construction. Turkish builders are more than willing to source local materials whenever possible, supporting the local economy while maintaining environmental advantages and sustainability. Finally, most Turkish builders include five-year construction warranties, so rest easy that your dream home is built correctly and backed with the signature of your builder.

Why Build Your Own Custom Home in Turkey

Tailored to Perfection: Building your custom home grants you the freedom to design every aspect you like. Craft a home that reflects your personality, from architectural styles and layout to interior finishes.

Functional Design: Say goodbye to awkward floor plans and wasted space. A custom home allows you to optimize layouts for maximum functionality. Create specialized spaces like home offices, libraries, or hobby rooms catering to your interests and needs.

Quality Craftsmanship: By handpicking every material and overseeing construction processes, you ensure top-notch craftsmanship and attention to detail. This hands-on approach leads to higher quality and longevity, ensuring your home stands the test of time.

Energy Efficiency: Custom homes allow incorporating of eco-friendly features and cutting-edge technologies. From solar panels and energy-efficient windows to innovative home systems, reduce your carbon footprint and save on utility bills.

Location of Choice: One significant advantage is the freedom to choose your ideal location. Whether it's quiet countryside retreats, bustling urban centres, or serene coastal escapes, your custom home can be where you've always dreamt of living.

Cost Control: Surprisingly, building a custom home can be more cost-effective in the long run. While initial investments might seem higher than purchasing an existing property, you avoid potential hidden costs associated with renovations or fixing structural issues.

Future-Proofing: Custom homes can be designed with future needs in mind. Ageing in place or incorporating flexible living spaces accommodates changing family dynamics and lifestyle requirements over the years.

Sense of Accomplishment: Few experiences rival accomplishment of creating something from scratch. Designing and building your custom home provides lasting legacies for yourself and your family.

Community Connection: Building a custom home often involves collaborating with local contractors, artisans, and suppliers. This fosters community engagement and support, promoting local businesses and strengthening neighbourhood bonds.

How Long Does It Take to Build a House in Turkey

The time it takes to build a villa in Turkey varies on several factors, like size and design, location, weather conditions, construction teams' efficiency, and materials availability. Typically, the process takes anywhere from several months to a year.

For a standard-sized house with a straightforward design and using standard construction methods, the timeline might look like this:

• Design and Permits: Depending on plans and necessary permits, the design phase can take a few months.
• Foundation and Framing: This phase involves excavating and laying the foundation, then erecting the framework.
• Utilities and Insulation: Installing plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems, as well as insulating the structure, may take weeks.
• Interior Finishing: The time required for interior finishing, including walling, flooring, painting, and carpentry, varies depending on designs and available workforces.
• Exterior Finishing: This includes landscaping, driveway construction, and additional outdoor features.
• Final Inspections and Touch-Ups: Once the construction is complete, touch-ups may take several weeks.

Overall, realistic estimates for building a home in Turkey would be around 12 months for a standard-sized house. However, remember unexpected delays, changes in plans, or other unforeseen circumstances could extend the construction timeline. Only work with reliable contractors and builders who provide detailed timelines for your home project.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Villa in Turkey?

The cost of building a house in Turkey varies widely on several factors, including the location, size, materials used, level of finishes, labour costs, and other amenities. Different regions in Turkey may have varying construction costs, with urban areas being more expensive than rural ones.

Construction Cost: This would cover the basic construction, including the structure, roofing, walls, and flooring.

Architectural and Design Fees: When hiring an architect to design your custom home, their fees can vary.

Permits and Legal Fees: Budget for necessary licenses and legal fees.

Utilities and Infrastructure: Connecting the property to water, electricity, sewage, and other utilities will add to overall costs.

Interior Finishes and Fixtures: The cost of interior finishes like kitchen cabinets, bathroom fixtures, flooring, and other fittings.

Land Cost: The plot cost should be factored into the total price if you haven't purchased the land.

Costs can fluctuate based on local market conditions and specific project requirements. For accurate estimates, consult with local builders, architects, and contractors who can provide detailed quotes based on your design and preferences.

How to Build Your Home in Turkey

Define Your Vision: Start by defining your vision for your dream home. Consider your lifestyle, preferences, and specific needs. Create lists of must-have features and desired amenities, which will serve as blueprints for design.

Choose a Location: Select the ideal location for your custom home. Consider proximity to schools, workplaces, amenities, and natural surroundings. Different regions in Turkey offer varying lifestyles, so choose a location that aligns with your preferences.

Engage with Professionals: Work with an experienced architect and reputable construction teams. Collaborate with the architect to design a home that maximizes functionality, aesthetics, and energy efficiency.

Permits and Budget: Ensure you have the necessary permits and approvals before commencing construction. Turkey has specific regulations and building codes that must be adhered to, so consult with local authorities or legal experts. Establish realistic budgets for the entire project, including land acquisition, design fees, construction costs, and interior finishes. Factor in contingencies for unexpected expenses.

Materials and Construction: Select the materials and finishes that align with your design vision and budget. Consider both aesthetics and durability for long-lasting results. Oversee the construction process so the project stays on track and meets your expectations. Regular communication with the construction team is essential for successful outcomes.

Inspect and Review: Regularly inspect the construction site and review the progress with your architect and builder. Address any issues promptly to avoid potential delays. Plan the interior design and select furniture and decor that complements the overall design theme. This stage brings personal touches to your custom home.

Completion: Perform final inspections to check on agreed-upon standards. Once satisfied, complete the necessary paperwork and take possession of your new custom home. It's time to move into your custom-built home and begin enjoying the fruits of your labour. Revel in the satisfaction of living in a home that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle.

Where to Build a Villa in Turkey

Location, location, location. But location should also be driven by your future plans. Do you want to be outdoors and active, or do you plan to work through a long reading list? Do you often wish to entertain family and friends, or are you escaping solitude? Do you love the sea, the mountains or both? All scenarios are considerations for where you should buy or build. But Turkey is unique in that it offers multiple locations with unique lifestyles, climates and cultural environments, allowing you to choose your own definition of paradise.

UZUMLU IN FETHIYE: Uzumlu, a charming village in the Fethiye district of the Mugla province in southwestern Turkey, sits in picturesque valleys surrounded by rolling hills and lush vineyards, from which its name "Uzumlu," meaning "with grapes," is derived. Uzumlu's real estate market is tranquil compared to larger cities and coastal resorts. Many properties here boast stunning views of surrounding mountains and vineyards, creating relaxing environments for residents and visitors alike. While Uzumlu is a tranquil village, it is not far from the bustling town of Fethiye, with beautiful beaches, a marina, restaurants, and shops. This convenient proximity allows residents of Uzumlu to enjoy laid-back lifestyles while still accessing modern amenities and services.

BELEK IN ANTALYA: Owning property in Belek offer many options for those seeking tranquil yet modern living on Turkey's Mediterranean coast. Belek, a popular tourist destination, offers stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and picturesque landscapes. Belek is also famous for golf tourism; some properties are located within or near golf courses. Aside from that, Belek boasts beautiful sandy beaches along the Mediterranean coast. Some houses are within walking distance of beaches, allowing you to enjoy the sun, sea, and water activities.

YALIKAVAK OR GUMUSLUK IN BODRUM: Yalikavak, a famous resort town on the Bodrum Peninsula in southwestern Turkey, is renowned for picturesque views, crystal-clear waters, and upscale amenities; Yalikavak and Gumusluk are both sought-after for both local and international buyers seeking a second home or a permanent residence. Yalikavak's modern marina attracts yachting enthusiasts and luxury travellers worldwide with high-end amenities, including fine dining restaurants, boutique shops, upscale bars, and exclusive beach clubs, catering to residents' discerning tastes. The popularity of Bodrum as a tourist destination and a luxury real estate hotspot makes houses here a potential investment opportunity.

SEYDIKEMER IN FETHIYE: Seydikemer district within the larger Fethiye municipality in the Mugla Province of southwestern Turkey was formed in 2012 by merging several villages and towns in the region. Seydikemer is characterised by rural charm, with picturesque countryside views, rolling hills, and traditional Turkish villages. It's ideal for quieter, more laid-back lifestyles away from larger urban centres. The district has beautiful natural surroundings, including pine forests, olive groves, and fertile plains.

Get Inspiration from Our Property Portfolio

At Property Turkey, we understand that building a home deserves the utmost care and attention. So, for inspiration for locations and properties, our exclusive portfolio of extraordinary properties is meticulously curated to inspire and captivate even the most discerning buyers. From contemporary architectural marvels that redefine luxury living to cosy family homes brimming with warmth and charm, our portfolio brims full of ideas. Alternatively, contact us today to chat with an agent about building a custom home in Turkey.