By. Justin Mays
North of the city near the Belgrad Forest, Gokturk and Kemerburgaz in Eyup are having a moment. Massive revitalization and investment are transforming these areas. Along with the usual amenities that you expect to find in Istanbul--private schools, health care, social activities and varied dining opportunities--these two areas offer even more. Namely, natural settings featuring old-growth forests and peaceful green vistas woven in among all the recent building development.
When looking for houses for sale in Turkey you can find everything in Eyup, from luxury villas in Istanbul or to apartments. The average residents here are middle to upper class young professionals and families. With excellent private schools like Hisar Okullari close by and many available activities like golfing and horseback riding families are lucky to settle here. The area is safe (Kemerburgaz is one of the first areas in Istanbul to be home to gated communities) and there are many housing and apartment complexes from luxury builds to more affordable options that have full services available, from gyms to community pools.
Commuting from the area is easy. A new metro line is being built to the Istanbul Airport which is a mere couple of stops from the area with continuing service to the downtown areas. Residents of the area can reach Taksim and Sisli in 25 minutes or reach the airport in 15 minutes. All three bridges to the Asian side are close by. This is the perfect location for those who want to be out of the city but who still want to be within a comfortable commute.
Expats often live in Gokturk and as a result the area also feels international, with popular chains like Starbucks in the commercial areas. There is a rich dining scene with international cuisine, kebab restaurants and fish and meze places. Pets are welcome at local cafes and for entertainment there are cinemas and places to shop. Vadi Istanbul shopping mall is a short ride away. Hospitals, gyms, banks and supermarkets and shops can also be found in the area. People who like downtown vibes without the traffic and crowds and want access to nature will love the area with Belgrad forest and its hiking trails right there combined with the draw of big city living.
From just two years ago these neighborhoods are transforming, and we are seeing big things for people investing in the area.
