Buying land in Kalkan is a smart move for many investors, but the real question is what to do after the purchase. Should you build and sell for a quick return, or hold and rent out for long-term income?
In this guide, we compare both strategies side by side, using current data from 2025 to help you decide which approach suits your goals best.
Contents
Step 1: Understanding Land Costs in Kalkan
Land prices vary by location, size, and view. As of 2025, average plot prices are:
- Inland or partial view plots: £90,000–£150,000
- Hillside sea-view plots (e.g. Kızıltaş, Kalamar): £150,000–£250,000
- Prime, flat, sea-facing land: £250,000–£350,000+
Plots with residential zoning, road access, and utility infrastructure are more expensive but also easier to develop and market later.
Build-to-Sell Strategy
This model involves purchasing land, building a villa, and selling the completed home for profit.
Estimated costs (based on a 200 m² villa):
- Land: £180,000
- Construction (at £1,000/m²): £200,000
- Architecture, permits, utilities: £20,000
- Furnishing (optional): £15,000
- Total: £415,000
Estimated resale value:
- For a well-designed 3–4 bedroom sea view villa in 2025: £550,000–£650,000
Potential gross profit:
- Around £135,000–£235,000, depending on finish quality, timing, and location.
Pros:
- Fast capital return (within 18–24 months)
- High demand for new, modern villas
- No need to manage guests or rentals long-term
Cons:
- High initial investment
- Must time the sale correctly
- Market sensitivity to construction delays or cost overruns
Build-to-Rent Strategy
This option focuses on long-term income by renting out the completed villa, usually through platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com.
Same initial investment:
- Total development cost: ~£415,000
Estimated annual gross rental income:
- £25,000–£45,000 depending on villa size, quality, and location
Annual costs:
- Management and maintenance: ~20% of income
- Utilities, taxes, repairs: £2,000–£3,000
Estimated net income:
- £18,000–£35,000 per year
Pros:
- Reliable income stream
- Property value may increase over time
- Personal use possible during off-season
Cons:
- Slower return on investment
- Requires active or outsourced management
- Subject to seasonal fluctuations
Which Strategy Performs Better?
| Factor | Build-to-Sell | Build-to-Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Capital Return Speed | 12–24 months | 10–15 years |
| Cash Flow | One-time lump sum | Recurring annual income |
| Risk Level | Higher during construction | Spread over longer period |
| Personal Use | None | Possible when not rented |
| Taxation | Capital gains tax (if sold within 5 years) | Rental income tax applies |
What Do Most Investors Choose?
In 2025, many buyers use a hybrid approach:
- Buy land and build.
- Rent the villa for 3–5 years to cover costs.
- Sell when the market peaks.
This allows you to recover your investment through rental income while still keeping resale as a future option.
Land + Strategy = Smart Investment
Buying land in Kalkan is a profitable move when paired with a clear plan. Build-to-sell suits those looking for fast capital gains, while build-to-rent rewards patience and consistency. Both are strong options — the right one depends on your time horizon, lifestyle goals, and risk tolerance.
