 | Elaine and John Doyle have relocated to Didim, Akbük area. John who is retired and Elaine, explain their experience and reasons for moving here.
1) WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BUY IN TURKEY?
We decided to buy here mainly because of the property prices and value for money to be honest. We also love the country, the climate and the people.
2) HOW DID YOU KNOW ABOUT AND DECIDE ON ALTINKUM?
Over the years, we have had several holidays in Turkey in various different resorts and locations. |
One of our last holidays was in Altınkum and it was during that time that we stumbled upon Akbuk which we really liked. The area is quieter and less commercialised than Altınkum but because of the good dolmus (local bus) service, it is so easy for us to pop into Altınkum anytime we want to.
On saying that, Akbük has all the things that we need also i.e. little local markets, some bars and restaurants as well as the lovely bay and the scenery.
3) CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR PROPERTY?
After looking at various properties of varying ages and condition, we decided on the property we have bought. It is not a new build property but was in liveable condition and we loved the location and the area so decided to purchase then arrange for renovations to be done.
4) HOW DID YOU FUND YOUR PURCHASE?
We funded our purchase using our retirement savings, which is also what we use to fund our living costs here.
5) DID YOU FIND THE BUYING EXPERIENCE GOOD OR BAD?
Our experience of the whole buying procedure was a good one. Although the system is totally different here, we were kept informed and had no problems throughout the procedure. We did have to rely on Turkish people and friends to keep us right because of the language but they certainly did answer all our queries and made it as stress free as buying any property ever can be.
6) HAS IT BEEN A GOOD INVESTMENT SO FAR?
To be honest, on a financial front, it is difficult to say as we have had renovations carried out and never had the property re-valued. On saying that, we feel it has been because we have the home we wanted, in the area we chose and for an overall good price if you include purchase and renovations. Prices of property here are continuing to rise so if we ever did decide to sell we feel sure the property would be a good investment
7) WHATS THE BEST THING ABOUT LIFE HERE?
For us, a major part of it is the climate and the weather! On top of that we find the hospitality of the people is great and the relaxed and slower way of life is suiting us. . |  |
We have met many friends both Turkish and British and still have a good social life if and when we want it
8) ARE THERE ANY DOWNSIDES?
The standards of workmanship is lower than we accept in Britain and this took some accepting when we were having our renovations done. The language barrier is also a problem as even with the renovations, if we had been able to explain ourselves more clearly it might have helped. The language difficulties also mean that we cannot have a proper chat with our neighbours. On a practical level, due to John’s age (70 yrs) we are finding it impossible to get health insurance for him over here so that is a definite downside as well.
| 9) ARE THERE ANY LANGUAGE PROBLEMS / HAVE YOU LEARNT TURKISH?
As I say, the language barrier cases difficulties on all levels, from the general socialising to the more serious or practical aspects if you need help. We needed to rely heavily on Turkish friends to help us when explaining what we wanted and also when we were buying goods etc we got the help of our friends. I am taking Turkish lessons and trying my best to learn! Not easy but I’ll persevere
10) WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS?
To continue living in Akbük as long as possible. |  |
