Turkey now offers some of the best opportunities in Europe to invest in golf property, boosted by the launch this year of an initiative to grow its share of the golf tourism market, according to real estate firm Spot Blue International.
Integrated golf resort developments in the country have the second strongest mid- to long-term growth potential of all countries in the European Mediterranean region, according to the report ‘Golf Resorts in the European Mediterranean Region’, published by the Golf Advisory Practice of accountancy firm KPMG.
While Spain, Portugal, Italy and France have higher levels of supply, Turkey has led the way within emerging markets and now accounts for 7 percent of the pan-regional supply, with the fifth highest number of coastal integrated golf resorts in the region.
“The vast majority of these golf resorts in Turkey feature hotels only,” said Julian Walker, Director at Spot Blue International Property.
“Most privately owned golf property is not actually on the fairway but in residential developments near to one or more golf courses. But, as the report states, Turkey is capitalizing on strong tourism demand, aided by competitive pricing, so further growth and new resort projects can be expected in the future.”
The KPMG report revealed that across the European Mediterranean region, golf resorts that offer accommodation in rented villas or apartments, often alongside a hotel, now account for more than 15 percent of the market and continue to grow in numbers.
In a bid to grow its share of global golf tourism, Turkey’s Western Mediterranean Development Agency (BAKA) and Turkish Airlines this year launched a scheme to attract more golfers to the Antalya region, home to the country’s golfing hub, Belek. The hope is that many will consider Turkey as an exciting new destination.
“The knock-on effect of more golfers, whichever nationality, is a good thing for the local property market,” added Walker.
“Belek’s reputation as an international golf hub is snowballing, and more visitors mean more demand for accommodation, which increases demand for lettable property.”
Picture: This three-bedroom villa in Belek with communal pool is close to main golf courses and beach. It is available through Spot Blue International for €140,000.
Andrew Batt, International Group Editor of PropertyGuru Group, wrote this story. To contact him about this or other stories email andrew@propertyguru.com.sg
