As of Febuary 2006 banks introduced a mortgage system for nationals., which has made it possible for people to finally buy their own homes for the first time. As of 2007, there are now mortgages available for non nationals.
· Turkey is currently going through a housing shortage. Estimates are that Turkey needs 400,000 new residences each year. The construction industry is only meeting 50% of this demand at the moment.
· In 2005, Turkey ranked sixth in the world for GDP growth
· Tourist numbers have doubled from i 2002 to 21.2 million in 2005. Turkey is now the 8th most visited country in the tourist world.
· Turkish governemnet has invested $120 million in 2007 to promote Turkish Tourism around the world.
· Membership talks with the EU have begun, and in order to bring the counrty in line with EU regulations several social and financial cahnges have been made. It is estimated that a 2012 entrance will be a possibility.
· Global brands have arrived in Turkey such as Hilton, Ikea, Harvey Nichols, Bodyshop, Marks and Spencers and Fiat who have opened several businesses in Turkey.
· Capital growth has increased 20% since non nationals could buy property since 2002.
· Turkey is the 16th largest economy in the world. The World Bank has announced Turkey as being one of the ten most promising emerging economies.
