The demand for 'safe homes' outside Istanbul has increased significantly following the earthquake

The 6.2-magnitude earthquake that hit Istanbul on 23 April 2025 led to a rise in demand for 'safe homes' situated at lower altitudes or in regions with lower seismic risk. There was also increased demand for housing and land outside the city centre.

The earthquake caused panic in Istanbul, forcing more than 100,000 people to sleep outside for fear of aftershocks. It also increased demand for low-rise, single-family properties and real estate in areas away from the Marmara Sea. Local residents are looking to sell their apartments in high-rise buildings and skyscrapers, preferring to find alternatives in less densely populated areas on the outskirts of the Turkish metropolis.

Real estate expert Mustafa Hakan Özmajikli confirmed that there is growing demand for land on the outskirts of the city, which many see as a 'plan B'. Prices in these areas range from 3,000 to 4,000 Turkish lira (€70–90) per square metre, depending on location and access to roads. Prices can reach TRY 5,000 (€115) if the property is officially located within the city limits.