In light of the continuous search for profitable and safe investment opportunities, many investors are turning towards real estate investment as a strategic option, especially in countries that enjoy active and stable real estate markets. For decades, European Union countries such as Germany, France, and Spain have been favored destinations for investors due to their economic and political stability. However, the question that arises strongly recently is : Could investing in a non-EU country, such as Turkey, be a more profitable and safer option? In this article, we will make an objective comparison between real estate investment in Spain and Turkey to answer this question comprehensively.
Real estate investment in developed countries is an attractive and profitable field for investors, and this is not limited to a specific country such as Spain, as many countries are characterized by lively and active real estate markets. Spain, thanks to its strategic geographical location close to the African and European continents and the Arab countries, and its moderate Mediterranean climate, is considered an ideal destination for investors wishing to invest in real estate. The increase in the number of immigrants to Spain contributes to the growth of both the real estate market and the tourism sector. In addition, Spain offers investors the opportunity to obtain golden residency and citizenship, which enhances its attractiveness as an investment destination.
On the other hand, Turkey presents itself as a strong investment option thanks to its unique and attractive advantages for foreign investors. Turkey is distinguished by its geographical location linking Asia and Europe, its cultural and historical diversity, and its active real estate market that is witnessing continuous growth. The easy procedures and flexibility in the conditions for obtaining real estate residency are among the most important factors that attract investors to Turkey. For example, a foreign investor can obtain real estate residency in Turkey by owning a property for an amount starting from $200,000, which is much less than the amount required in Spain.
When comparing real estate investment in Spain and Turkey, several factors must be considered such as price, ease of procedures, and conditions for foreign investors. While Spain offers a stable investment environment and a distinct geographical location, Turkey offers greater flexibility in procedures and lower investment costs, making it an attractive option for investors looking for opportunities at reasonable costs.
Real estate residence in Spain and Turkey : investment cost and advantages
Obtaining real estate residency in Spain requires a minimum investment of half a million euros, which gives the individual and his family many privileges such as the right to education and visa-free travel to European Union countries. Obtaining real estate residency in Spain by owning a property requires conditions related to age and physical health. A criminal record free of convictions and felonies, and passing the security test imposed by the state.
In return, Turkey offers more flexible and attractive options in terms of cost, as the value of the investment required to obtain real estate residency does not exceed 200 thousand US dollars, while in Turkey there are none of the procedures and conditions mentioned in Spain. All that matters is choosing the project, provided that the property is not close to prohibited areas such as security or military areas. Real estate residency holders in Turkey also enjoy a wide range of benefits that include the right to enjoy all residency rights, banking freedom, educational opportunities, and the possibility of owning real estate and cars. In addition to the opportunity to apply for Turkish citizenship under specific conditions. These advantages make real estate residency in Turkey a very attractive option for those wishing to settle or invest in the country, making it an attractive destination for investors with different budgets.
Obtaining citizenship : investment and conditions
In Spain, investors have the opportunity to obtain citizenship when they own a property worth 500 thousand euros, but under the conditions mentioned previously. Also, Spanish citizenship is not granted except after a period of time has passed since the investor’s residence, which may range to five years of residence.
While in Turkey, the investor can apply for Turkish citizenship in exchange for real estate investment in Turkey by purchasing a property for $400,000 or more. The procedures for granting Turkish citizenship after purchase do not require a long period of time, as it only requires a maximum of three months to grant citizenship.
Living and study costs :
The costs of living and studying in Spain are more expensive than in Turkey, and this is clear and known through the desire of tourists coming to it, due to Turkey’s reasonable prices as well as the multiplicity of its tourist places, as the costs of living in Spain are 46% higher than the costs of living in Turkey, according to the global calculating website NUMBEO. The cost of living in the world and the link below shows the comparison between Turkey and Spain, and this is what makes Turkey’s real estate investment, housing and residence opportunities better than Spain.
Cost Of Living Comparison Between Turkey And Spain
Returns and investment value :
In terms of investment, both Turkey and Spain offer promising opportunities, but Turkey is distinguished by exceptional growth rates in the real estate market, as it recorded the highest percentage of residential apartment sales in Europe and showed an average increase in investment value of approximately 60%. These numbers reflect the active and profitable investment environment that Turkey provides to investors in the real estate sector. We should also not forget that Turkey, especially Istanbul, is a strong tourist center in the region and many tourists come to it every year, especially from neighboring countries, which gives the investor investment opportunities with high rental returns, unlike in Spain.
In conclusion
It can be said that both Spain and Turkey offer distinctive real estate investment opportunities, but the choice between them depends on the priorities and preferences of the investor himself. Whether the search is for stability and a distinct geographical location in Spain, or flexibility in procedures and lower investment costs in Turkey, when choosing between obtaining residency or citizenship through real estate investment in Turkey or Spain, it becomes clear that each country offers a unique set of advantages and challenges. However, Turkey stands out as a more attractive option in terms of investment cost, flexibility, investment returns, and cost of living, making it a preferred destination for many investors wishing to expand their global horizons and take advantage of promising investment opportunities. The final decision remains with the investor based on his assessment of the opportunities and challenges in Every market.
10-02-2024 
