How to Find an An Apartment Rental in Turkey

There are some things you should know about renting an apartment in Turkey.  I will use Antalya as an example, but the rules are the same through Turkey.

First of all, there are a couple of Turkish words you should know...

Emlak
This is a good Turkish word to know if you are looking to rent a property. An Emlak is simply the Turkish word that translates as "real estate agent".  While in many countries a real estate agent would only sell homes, here in Turkey they also rent homes.  They require 1 months commission (sometimes more) as a finders fee when you sign a contract.

Sahibinden
This is another good Turkish word to know.  It means "by owner".  If you want to avoid the hefty finders fee, this is the word you look for when renting.  There is the cost advantage of course, but you now lose the protection of having an agent make sure the contract is on the up and up.  For example, an Emlak will step in an mediate any problems with the contract.

What you will need:

1. A valid passport that has a valid visa (if required for your nationality)
2. Money to pay 1 months rent, plus 1 or 2 months damage deposit, plus about 1 months rental fee to the agent.

Finding an Apartment/Home to Rent

Method #1 - Walk Around the City

The best way to find a rental is to walk around the city and look for signs. Below are a couple of examples of signs you might see on a balcony or window.

Notice each of the signs have the word "KIRALiK"?  That is the Turkish word meaning "for rent". Another good word to know.  Another word you see might be "Satilik".  Unless you plan on buying the apartment, this place is not for you.

Call the number on the sign.  These are most often real estate agents.  If you are fortunate, they will speak some English and can show you the place.  They will also tell you how much it is and if it includes furniture etc.  Yes, apartment rentals can include furniture.

Method #2 - Hire the Service of an Emlak (Real estate agent)

An easier way to find a rental is to use the services of an Emlak (real estate agent).  Yes, they require a commission.  But they will do the legwork for you. They may even drive you around.  Here is an example of what you will see on the front of their store.  Notice the words "KiRALIK"

Every neighborhood, on almost every block, you will see these storefronts.  Ask about the for rent signs and ask to see them.

Method #3 - Online Search

There are a couple main sites with picture that locals as well as agents use to find rentals.  Each link below will take you to the city of Antalya, but you can navigate out of these.

https://www.emlakjet.com

https://www.sahibinden.com


Making a Contract

If you are applying for residency, there are some things you should know.  First of all you will need two things from the apartment owner:

1. A copy of the TAPU.  This is the title deed of the apartment.  It proves to immigration that you are renting a bonafide property.
2. A copy of their residency card.  Immigration requires this.

Questions to ask when you look at an apartment.
1. Am I required to have electricity and water connected?  Important question because you cannot do this until you get your residency.  Your landlord must do it.
2. Will you provide me with a copy of the title deed (Tapu) and residency card (ikamet)?
3. Will you make contract for one full year? (Required by immigration).

Questions to ask yourself while looking at the apartment:
1. Does it have air conditioners and appliances? These can be expensive.

As soon as you have a rental agreement signed, this is your ticket to start the immigration process.