Comparison Shop | Do your homework I agree with many of the members that have already replied. Subsidized inspection trips are offered for a few reasons. 1. is to tie the buyers into being stuck with the builder/ agent throughout their stay. That's not good. You need to comparison shop. Having said that, in addition to agents and builders, compare lawyers. And you don't need to hire an English solicitor. There are many comparable and professional English speaking lawyers in Turkey. It's easier to use a Turkish lawyer. They are more familar with the procedures, speak both languages, and can handle unforeseen situations, should they arise, much better. 2nd reason for subsidized trips: is sometimes for those who aren't sure how to set out their travel plans (ie. where to stay, transfer,etc.),and simply a convenience. But the first reason is the most common tactic. There are so many cheap flights to Antalya, all you need afterwards is a nice, clean and affordable hotel and airport transfer. Thomas Cook or other travel agencies have great deals for complete packages. Subsidized trips sort of tie you in to stay with one company. That doesn't give you the freedom to explore the region on your own to get a feeling of the area, nor does it give you the chance to shop around much.
Trust is a strong word. Never trust anyone. Always secure yourself in every way. Giving a power of attorney does not bind you to the solicitor and good to have done in the beginning. But that's not to say you should do it as you can do this anytime you like. You can even do it from your own country.
When seeking property, and if it's your first time, again, shop around, compare well, DO YOUR HOMEWORK. If there is informtion that you aren't clear on, assistance in doing your homework never hurts - from agents, builders and other private property owners. Good place to internet compare real estate are property portals. There are so many agents and builders as well as private property owners to filter through.
Note: Do be aware that some agents sell the same development at either a higher or lower price. Some overseas and local Turkish agents mark up the prices as they can be sharing their commission with other local Turkish agents. Alternatively builders give a much higher commission to agents because of this reason. So really do do a comparison.
Also when you get the point of shortlisting properties, etc, make a pro and con sheet about the propeties you've seen, the agents you've met (or builders). This helps a lot. Because once you sign on the dotted line - that's it. Build it on your criteria, their services, prices, and location!! Do you really want to end up in the middle of no where just because it's cheap. Also cheap does not always mean a good deal. Use tactics that you would apply if you were to shop for property in your own country.
I would like to also add that you have taken a great step in being a part of a property forum
There are a few good websites that give information on buying property in Turkey (not just agent web sites). One good site is turkisheconomy(dot)org(dot)uk. This is a great site. The best I've seen on the internet. There is so much information here, not just for buying property but also for living in Turkey, taxes, etc. etc.
Well I could keep writing and writing. Good luck on your property search!!
turkeypropertyinvest(dot)com