Proposed changes to Turkey's mortgage laws is driving up property prices in Turkey.

There is a very strong interest internationally in Turkish property and it's tourism industry. The population which is almost 73 million is young with 35% of Turkish people under the age of 35. Up until now young people purchase homes with assistance from their family and short term loans from banks. Now because of the change in legislation they will it the first time be able to get mortgages and this is expected to have a big impact on property prices both in the cities and along the coastline where tourism is flourishing.

Turkey is developing their Spa and Golf tourism and they have a lot of experience in this area as well as in the building industry.

Coming into effect in January 2008, the new laws will effectively introduce long-term loans to finance property. Aquarius Properties have been in the Turkish market for the past four years and opened an office there because they believe it's a market not to be ignored in the future. Recently Global Property Guide (GPG) claimed that Turkish property is now among the most attractive in Europe. Noting the country's impressive conditions within the property sector, the GPG said that along with Slovakia, Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary, Turkey is likely to become major hotspot for investors.

In July when the elections take place more certainty will have come into the political situation and in many ways it is good that the whole issue of fundamentalism has come to the fore. The majority of Turkish people support a secular society and it is enshrined in their constitution.

Property prices have increased by on average 25% pa over the last three years and in areas like Bodrum where more upmarket tourism exists the prices have risen even more. Zoned land is at a big premium there especially in the area of Mugla where the new golf courses are going. At present there are two PGA golf courses in development and two more on the drawing board close by. This is only the start as there are many more being planned in this area. What is totally unexplored in the Turkish market is their rich archaeological sites which are among the most interesting in the world. Turkey has thousands of sites which are suited to Spa's and this is where tourism of the future will be when combined with golf tourism. People are no longer willing to lie on the beach all day damaging their skin they want activities and the Turkish market is sensitive to this need. Anyone contemplating on purchasing a property in Turkey should choose the location carefully. The top location for potential is Bodrum because of the Golf and the wonderful nightlife and marina. The Bodrum Peninsula has a variety of lovely coves and beaches and the views are spectacular and if you are lucky and you purchase in the right location y ou may also get a wonderful sunset.

Popular location now are the Mugla area because its close to the airport and its where the new golf courses are being built. The villas planned to be built on the new Vita Park Golf Resort are rumoured to cost over $1 MILLION each and that is the launch price, lets wait and see what they really cost.

Any plots in this area are being snapped up and property is in short supply around this area because of the shortage of zoned land. In the future there will be lots of luxury properties coming on stream with the planned two new golf course which are situated close to the Vita Park Golf Resort.

There are also lovely apartments and Villas on the peninsula for those who want stunning views of the sea and the country. There is lots to do in Bodrum you can tale a boat trip and enjoy a lovely dinner while you sail around the bay, you can shop in the wonderful shops in the town of Bodrum which also has wonderful restaurants. I recommend a drive around the peninsula and a visit to Turkbuku which is a playground for the rich and famous in Turkey. When purchasing in Turkey take a five year perspective because real value will be got by waiting for the impact of mortgages to take effect.

Aquarius Properties have wonderful four bedroomed villas in Flamingo Golf Resort with large 30 m2 swimming pools selling at €180,000. They are on plots of 500 m2 in size and y ou can build two apartments with their own swimming pool or a villa . There is a rental and management company managing the resort as well as a furniture package available. These are exceptional value especially when you consider that the developer who is Irish decided to build double brick walls as single brick walls are the norm.

Aquarius Properties also have a big selection of villas and apartments in the Bodrum region so no matter what your preference they will have something to tempt you. If you are interested in knowing more about purchasing property in Turkey then call Aquarius now in +353 1 2782900 or cal their Bodrum office direct on +90 252 319 1917 or email info@aquariusproperties.com