Türkiye Real Estate Market Update: A Current Overview for International Investors
October 12, 2026 | Vega Premium
Housing sales, regional demand, and price movements provide useful insights for international investors considering property in Türkiye. August 2026 figures show that home sales to foreign buyers remained broadly unchanged year on year, while sales during the first eight months of the year were lower than in the same period of 2025.
When interpreting these figures, the purpose of the purchase matters. Buying a home to live in Türkiye, purchasing a second residence, and acquiring a rental property each require different selection criteria.
Latest Figures on Home Sales to Foreign Buyers
According to the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), 1,938 homes were sold to foreign buyers in August 2026, representing a 0.1% increase compared with the same month last year.
During January–August, home sales to foreign buyers fell by 6.3% to 13,141. In August, citizens of the Russian Federation, Ukraine, and Iran purchased the highest numbers of homes, respectively.
Monthly sales remaining close to last year’s level does not indicate a strong surge in foreign demand. Viewed alongside the eight-month figures, the results show that demand varies across periods. The number of properties sold also does not, on its own, measure the monetary value of foreign investment entering Türkiye.
Istanbul Leads Home Sales to Foreign Buyers
According to Veri Atlası, reporting TÜİK figures, Istanbul ranked first with 763 homes sold to foreign buyers in August 2026. It was followed by Antalya with 599 sales and Mersin with 143 sales.
This sales volume places Istanbul at the centre of Türkiye’s international property market. However, citywide demand does not mean that every district or development will deliver the same investment outcome.
When researching property in Istanbul, transport connections, nearby amenities, the building’s technical condition, and comparable property prices should be assessed together. For rental purchases, the target tenant profile and realistic rental expectations also require consideration.
What Do Housing Prices Tell Investors?
According to the Central Bank of the Republic of Türkiye’s EVDS data, the national Residential Property Price Index increased by approximately 0.94% month on month and 23.03% year on year in August 2026. The index tracks housing price movements across the country.
For international investors, price appreciation in Turkish lira and returns in foreign currency should be calculated separately. Exchange rates at the time of purchase and sale, transaction expenses, and ownership costs all affect the outcome.
Rather than focusing solely on price appreciation, assessing the property’s total cost and comparing different usage scenarios provides a more comprehensive basis for a purchasing decision.
What Should Buyers Compare When Choosing Property in Türkiye?
A property’s asking price is the starting point of an investment assessment. Before making a decision, buyers should clarify the following:
- Location: Access to public transport, business districts, and everyday amenities.
- Property features: Net and gross floor area, floor level, orientation, layout, and building condition.
- Price comparisons: The features and prices of comparable properties in the same area.
- Rental scenario: Expected rent, potential vacancy periods, and management expenses.
- Total budget: The purchase price together with transaction, maintenance, and ownership costs.
- Document review: Examination of title records, building documentation, and sale conditions with the relevant professionals.
These comparisons help distinguish between a home intended for personal use and a property being considered for rental purposes.
Explore Property Opportunities in Türkiye with Vega Premium
Defining your budget, preferred location, and purchasing purpose at the beginning of your property search can help you compare options more efficiently.
Contact Vega Premium to explore homes and current property listings in Istanbul, request information about properties that interest you, and arrange a consultation.
Sources: TÜİK, Housing and Workplace Sales Statistics, August 2026; Central Bank of the Republic of Türkiye, EVDS Residential Property Price Index; Veri Atlası.
