Turkey, and especially Istanbul, has always been located in one of the world's most active earthquake zones. From ancient times, many civilizations have risen and fallen here, often affected by powerful earthquakes. Now in 2025, not much has changed—earthquakes remain a part of life not only in Turkey but across the globe, including the US, Europe, and Asia.
On April 23, 2025, which is a very special day for us in Turkey—National Sovereignty and Children's Day—an earthquake struck Istanbul. As a young mother, I had plans to take my son outside to celebrate with our family. We were just about to leave home when the ground started to shake. In such moments, there is no warning—you find yourself in the middle of it, powerless.
And the real question that came to my mind was: What happens next?
Should You Worry About Investing in Turkish Real Estate?
Here’s the truth for all our foreign investors and even local homebuyers: earthquakes have always been and will always be a reality in Turkey. There is nothing to hide, and certainly nothing to fear or delay your real estate investments because of it.
During the recent earthquake, I realized once again the importance of location selection and construction quality. Fortunately, I didn’t feel the earthquake intensely where I live, and neither I nor my son experienced any panic. This reassured me that we had made the right choice by investing in a solid, well-constructed property.
How to Invest Safely in Turkey's Real Estate Market
When buying property in Turkey, especially in Istanbul, it is crucial to prioritize earthquake-resistant buildings and reliable developers. Instead of chasing only discounts or the cheapest offers from unknown contractors, choose projects developed by reputable, trusted construction companies. Even boutique projects, if done by a reputable name, are safer than large but poorly built ones.
Always check:
The quality of the land and soil conditions (solid ground is key),
The construction company's reputation and previous works,
Compliance with modern earthquake regulations.
Remember, it is better to invest a little more for a high-quality, earthquake-resistant building than to risk your life by settling for less. Focus not just on property prices but on structural safety and urban planning.
Accepting the Reality and Moving Smart
Instead of saying "We were terrified, everything shook," we need to accept that natural disasters are a reality of the world we live in. The right approach is to take smart, proactive steps to protect our families and our investments.
Urban renewal projects, better zoning practices, and strict building standards are already reshaping many parts of Istanbul. When choosing your real estate investment, prioritize areas with solid infrastructure and strong urban development, not just affordable prices.
Always prioritize life safety over material savings. Paying less but risking your life is never a smart investment.
By understanding the realities and taking the right measures, you can confidently invest in Turkey’s promising real estate market—even in the face of natural challenges like earthquakes.
