Building regulations in Turkey are governed by "TSE" standards - similar to British Standards in the UK. In recent years, construction quality and standard has be forced to improve greatly. When buying a new property in Turkey, you can be assured that the structure you are investing in meets very exacting standards. Many argue that new projects in Turkey are now far higher quality than the standard required for NHBC approval in the United Kingdom. Construction is normally reinforced concrete frame - which gives great strength (and flexibility) in normal and exceptional conditions. Regulations dictate minimum concrete strengths, reinforcing steel quantity and diameters etc. - and these can not be reduced.

Quality of component parts and finish are now exceptional in Turkey. For example, Turkish sealed unit double glazing manufacturers are now seeing great success selling to the UK construction market. Craftmanship is alive and well here, and you will see amazing quality in tiling, marbling and coving.

All in all, national regulations and local skill deliver first quality properties - but this was not always the case. You do not have to look too far back to find evidence of poor quality building. Buying a second hand property can of course be a good option, but not always. Bearing in mind that the majority of holiday home purchases occur during the summer tourist season (not least by holidaymakers themselves), it is often the case that any inherent problems do not manifest themselves till the winter. Turkey is almost rain-free in the summer, but amazingly wet in the winter. This means that any damp or roofing problems will only show many months after purchase. It is highly unlikely that the original owner will return to finance costly repairs or replacements.

All new projects must offer a minimum five year, full structural guarantee - and often ten or more years. This is similar to the UK's NHBC scheme. There is also a full guarantee, for at least one year, covering all 'snagging' and non-structural matters.

Buying new is always a pleasant experience, but it also allows input from the purchaser. Most developers will offer a choice of kitchens, ceramics, taps, etc., and it is also possible to discuss larger issues. For example, a cloakroom with shower could be reworked to incorporate a bath. A first floor could be completely redesigned to allow an en-suite bathroom. Depending on the project schedule, local developers will try their very best to accomodate personal wishes wherever possible.