Compare profit margins between land investment and short-term villa rentals. Learn about ROI, annual maintenance costs, and how quickly you can recoup your investment.
Kalkan continues to attract international investors looking to capitalise on its rising property market. If you’re considering buying here in 2025, you’re likely weighing two options: purchasing investment land or buying a finished holiday villa.
Each path comes with its own financial potential, risks, and timeline. In this guide, we compare both strategies to help you choose the most profitable option for your goals.
Contents
Initial Costs and Entry Barriers
Buying a finished villa typically requires a larger upfront investment. In 2025, the average sea view villa in Kalkan costs between £350,000 and £600,000, depending on location, size, and features.
In contrast, investment plots start around £90,000 and can go up to £250,000 for well-located land with a clear view and zoning permissions. However, you’ll need to factor in construction costs later on.
Rental Income Potential
Holiday villas offer immediate short-term rental income. Well-furnished 3–4 bedroom properties in prime areas such as Kalamar or Kızıltaş can generate £25,000 to £45,000 annually on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com.
Land, on the other hand, produces no rental income until a villa is built. It is a longer-term investment strategy that pays off only after development.
Appreciation Over Time
Land in Kalkan has seen steady price increases in the past five years due to limited supply and zoning restrictions. Investors who bought land in 2020 and built villas by 2023 often saw property values double or more.
Finished villas also appreciate, but their growth is more influenced by condition, style, and maintenance. Newly built or recently renovated villas hold the strongest resale value.
Timeline and Involvement
Buying a villa is faster and more hands-off. Once the transaction is complete, you can begin renting or using the property right away.
Land investment requires:
- Architectural planning
- Building permits
- 12 to 18 months for construction
- Supervision or project management
This route suits buyers who are patient and prefer to customise their investment.
Risks to Consider
For villas:
- Market saturation in high season
- Maintenance and wear
- Guest management (unless outsourced)
For land:
- Zoning changes or permit delays
- Construction cost fluctuations
- Longer time before returns
Working with a lawyer and experienced local professionals can help minimise these risks.
Which Option Is More Profitable in 2025?
If you want immediate income and low involvement, a ready villa is the better choice.
If you’re focused on capital growth and can wait 1–2 years, land plus construction offers higher long-term profit margins.
Buyers with flexible timelines often choose land, build a custom villa, and either rent it or sell at a premium.
Profit Comes From Planning
There’s no single answer that fits everyone. The most profitable choice depends on your budget, time horizon, and how hands-on you want to be. Kalkan’s market remains strong in 2025, and both options can deliver solid returns when backed by research and local expertise.
