By A.J. Griffiths-Jones

Now the construction season is well underway once again and websites are filled with advertisements for new builds, it’s no wonder that people who have enjoyed a few weeks’ stay in Turkiye are tempted to consider purchasing a permanent holiday home here.

With so many properties on estate agents’ books right now, you might want to weigh up the options of old versus new. Check out the legalities of moving to Turkiye before you decide to take the plunge. It is essential to speak to an expert about minimum investment requirements, residency and contracts.

Most of us expats would prioritise a sea view and proximity to the local amenities when looking at locations. In most coastal towns or villages over here the closer you are to the water, the more expensive the properties.

Unless you want to consider a more traditional style villa, some of which can be found along the main roads of Akbuk and Fevzipasa. Many are in need of updating, which must be factored into the costs, but they are full of charm and usually have some unique features, such as outdoor clay ovens and well-tended gardens.

The downside of an older property is the lack of insulation, now included in modern builds as regulation, but if you only plan to use it during summer, this needn’t be such a concern.

You may find that neighbours in these well-established areas are all locals, but Turkish hospitality is wonderful, and you will soon find yourself taken into the fold, although learning some basic Turkish is imperative, especially for general meetings and payment of fees if on a gated site.

Generally, maintenance on these older housing estates is a fraction of the cost of a newer building site, but most only cover the more basic expenses such as external painting and sewerage.

Initial outlay for an older home will most likely include the installation or repair of air-conditioning units, revamping the kitchen and bathroom, and treatment for damp, but if you like to put your own stamp on a property and have unlimited time this can be a great chance to create your home away from home.

Also be aware that older houses tend to be more prone to storm damage and it is best to have a home inspection done by both a qualified electrician and a plumber.

In many areas, construction is underway for more modern houses and apartments, the latter being a better choice to lock up and leave, but these often come with a hefty price tag and high maintenance fees for properties that include a communal pool and on-site security guard.

However, most new builds in Turkiye are modern and aesthetically pleasing, with quality finishes and high-spec cabinetry. They also tend to be more energy-efficient, retaining heat in the winter and air in the summer due to thicker dual-pane windows and insulated walls.

Some companies give clients the option to choose final finishes for tiles, kitchens and bathrooms, but most new builds are identical and tend to be in muted tones of grey and white. Great if you want a blank canvas on which to introduce your own style but do have a good look at the practicalities too.

Ask yourself, can I reach the top cupboards in the kitchen? Many tend to be very high in newer properties. Are fitted wardrobes included? Is there ample dining space?

Overall, it is much more expensive to make changes to a brand-new house or apartment and communicating your preferences to the builder early on may create a more perfect living space for you and your family.

Finally, if you choose to buy off-plan, be clear in your expectations. Stormy weather in the winter season and government building restrictions during the summer months can often cause delays in final handover dates, so try to be patient but firm.

Ask for regular updates if you have secured a deposit on your chosen home and visit the site in person when you can to ensure you are happy with the progress and quality of the build.

I would also advise, at the very start of your property search, to walk from the place you plan to make an offer on to the local restaurants, market and shops, seeing how long it takes and whether the stroll would be bearable in the height of summer with soaring temperatures.

Bear in mind that local minibuses are regular and efficient, but routes tend to be limited to the main streets, so living three miles up a hill might give you spectacular views but might not seem so appealing should you need to walk back up it with shopping!

If you do decide to buy in Turkiye, enjoy every minute, it’s a fabulous place.