Antalya Emerges as the Second Most Talked-About City in Turkey After Istanbul Due to High Rents and Real Estate Prices
In Antalya, the second most discussed city in Turkey after Istanbul due to soaring rent and property prices, real estate agents are now facing competition from unexpected sources. Some individuals from different professions, including teachers, doctors, lawyers, and academics, have been offering to help find buyers or renters in exchange for a share of the commission. Real estate agents have raised concerns about these unsolicited offers.
Antalya, a popular tourist destination, has seen a significant influx of migrants, especially after the Russia-Ukraine war, which has led to a dramatic increase in both rental and sale prices for properties. The city has now become the second most expensive in Turkey, following Istanbul. Despite the controversy surrounding these “bubble prices,” real estate agents say that after two years, many buyers have come to accept the situation. They also mentioned that the sector has become more active since the 25% cap on rent increases was lifted on July 1.
Real estate agents typically charge a service fee equivalent to one month’s rent from the tenant when brokering rental agreements. For property sales, they collect 2% of the total sale amount from both the buyer and the seller as commission. However, these agents are now complaining about people from other professions demanding a share of these fees.
“Some Ask for Half of Our Earnings”
Hülya Tükenmez, Chair of the Real Estate Activities Committee at the Antalya Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ATSO), explained that doctors, lawyers, teachers, building managers, civil servants, market owners, and even academics are now acting like real estate agents. Tükenmez said that those who call them are often expecting something in return. She added, “People say, ‘If you give me a share of the rent or the sale price, I’ll work with you.’ This is not something we, as a professional organization, are comfortable with. However, some of our colleagues, not wanting to lose out on high-commission properties, accept these offers.”
Tükenmez mentioned that they are also victims of this trend, with their potential earnings sometimes being cut in half. “We receive these kinds of offers from many professions, including lawyers, teachers, and building managers. While these offers are sometimes accepted, it’s not the right approach. In some cases, people ask for half of our fees,” she said.
“Surprised When Academics Make Such Offers”
Halit Mert, another real estate agent in Antalya, echoed these complaints. He mentioned that while the real estate market is picking up and agents are hopeful for better earnings, these “partners” are causing a loss in their income. Mert also pointed out that these individuals are not paying taxes on their earnings, essentially engaging in tax evasion. “We communicate with buyers and sellers and try to assist them through our portfolio. We also receive calls from various professionals who say things like, ‘I have a nice apartment for sale or rent. It belongs to a friend. If you take me into account, I’ll work with you.’ We often collaborate with other agents, but we’re surprised when teachers, doctors, lawyers, or academics make such offers,” Mert said.
He concluded by saying that such transactions should be regulated and penalized as tax evasion.
Kaynak: DHA
