Job Discussion Forums

[dejmito]

I'm moving to Istanbul in a few weeks, and I'm looking for a flat. I don't speak Turkish, so it seems like my options are pretty limited. I've checked out a lot of temporary flats through craigslist, but they seem mediocre at best. I've also checked out hurriyetemlak.com and sahibinden.com, but I'm also finding a lot of unfurnished, completely empty apartments. How do I find something with a refrigerator? Or a kitchen? Now go easy on me, I'm coming from Prague, which is pretty much the easiest place in the world to live. Thanks.

[coffeespoonman]

Lol, you're in for a shock coming from Prague. I did the same 6 years ago and was traumatized by how difficult everything was in comparison.

The truth is, you're not likely to find anything other than an empty unfurnished flat. You'll have to pay a large commission to a real estate agency for doing nothing, and your landlord will be a thief, who will make up a flimsy excuse to steal your deposit.

At least that was my experience in my 6 years in Turkey.

It's much easier when you're in the country - word of mouth is probably the best way to find something good, but depending on your situation, you may not have a lot of time to search when you arrive. If you already have a job lined up, you may want to consider emailing your school and asking them if any of their teachers need a roommate or know someone who does. If you don't have a job, you could just look for a roommate on craigslist. That way you won't have to sign a contract and your place will be furnished. If you don't like it, at least you'll only have to stay for a short while (until you find something of your own).

Good luck...