Politicsxml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /> At this time, xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />Turkey is preparing new laws and regulations in order to become a full member of the European Union. The expectation is that the process of joining the European Union will take 3 to 6 years. After that, prices of real estate are set to rise even more quickly than now, bringing property in Turkey to a level with everywhere else in the European Union. Therefore this is the right time for investing in Turkey, and we have the knowledge and experience to help you do so.   Turkey has a wide range of opportunities on offer for the foreign investor and many good reasons for investing: The country is strategically situated, close to Central Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and the European markets. Agreements between Turkey and 39 other countries to promote and protect mutual investments as well as an agreement to preclude double taxation. Since 1996 there has been a customs union with the European Union and since 1999 Turkey has been a candidate member of the European Union. In 1999 Turkey was included in the newly established G-20 group along with other major dynamic emerging economies. Turkey has been a full member of the EU Customs Union since 1996. The EU formally designated Turkey as a candidate for full membership in its Helsinki Summit in December 1999. Currently, the Government of Turkey is engaged in harmonizing its legislation and institutional basis to match EU standards and requirements.   Economics Turkey has a very liberal investment climate, including free (international) movement of capital, profits, dividends and salaries, free-trade zones and subsidies.   There is a large home market with 62 million consumers. Turkey has a modern infrastructure and is a prominent European holiday destination.   The World Trade Organisation considers Turkey to be one of the most dynamic countries. . A strong international investment record -The experience of more than 4000 foreign capital establishments, including 104 of the Fortune Top 5000 companies, confirms Turkey as a predominant investment location.   A fast developing economy - The average growth rate of 5,4 % for the last 5 years, which is well above many OECD countries, implies a dynamic and growing economy. WTO outputs also state that Turkey is among the most dynamic 20 countries in the world trade.   Source: Embassy of the Republic of Turkey, Washington, DC     Market Analysis – Altinkum   Investing in Property in Altinkum Altinkum has only recently emerged as front runner for property investors. It has this advantage over better-known resorts such as Bodrum and Marmaris, meaning that property prices are still remarkably low – at an estimate, like-for-like prices show a margin of as much as 40% in some cases.   However since 2002 when foreign buyers have been able to buy in their own name, property prices have risen by as much as 100% and more. Investors have been flying out from the UK during the winter to try and pre-empt the huge increases brought by the first charter flights of the season. As a result of the savings buyers have already made by buying early, more and more would-be Altinkum investors are flying out to try and scoop a good deal.   These enormous appreciations in value far outweigh those now seen in the more established property markets in Turkey making Altinkum the hot tip of the moment.   Altinkum’s Outlook for the Future The property market rises in Altinkum so far have been based on the interest (and outlay) of smart early investors.   However, property prices in Altinkum are set to continue improving for many years to come. Not only does Altinkum benefit from all the strengths of the Turkish market (see Market Analysis / Turkey), it is still seeing the explosive price increases that have started to level out in bigger resorts.   Additionally there are features exclusive to Altinkum which have only just started to impact the value of property in the area.   New marina which has just received planning permission raises calibre of the resort Nearby Water Park, completed in 2004, widens appeal for families Local investment in town centre has seen great improvements in facilities New high-speed road link from Bodrum airport bringing transfer times down In all, this is the ideal time to invest in property in Altinkum. Here at Turquoise Homes, we will help you get the best from your investment!