For retirees, who are often among the most financially constrained groups, the slogan “good news from TOKİ for retirees” has recently become common, referring to the opportunity to buy affordable homes through TOKİ. TOKİ applications remain valid for 2018, and all retirees who meet the eligibility criteria can apply to purchase homes from TOKİ. Observers expect even higher demand in 2018 compared with previous years, and reports indicate that the responsible authorities have issued directives to increase the number of TOKİ projects. The allocated TOKİ apartments will be assigned by lottery, and those who win will receive their homes after presenting the required documents at the contract-signing stage. One of the most frequently asked questions among retirees planning to become homeowners is: when will TOKİ applications for retirees begin in 2018?
Is there any fee to apply to TOKİ?
As with other application processes, TOKİ applications require a fee to cover document processing and administrative work. The TOKİ application fee varies by project and income group, but for low-income group projects it is typically around 500 TRY. In practice, you pay the fee at the bank and indicate that you want to be entered in the TOKİ lottery. The bank official will register you for the draw and forward your documents to the relevant units to complete the procedure. The fee can vary by income group: for middle- and higher-income projects the amount can rise, sometimes up to around 1500 TRY.
Are application fees refunded to those who do not win a home in the lottery?
Because even a 500 TRY application fee can strain the finances of retirees with limited income, TOKİ refunds the application fee if the applicant does not win a home in the lottery. Retirees requesting a refund can visit the bank and state that they wish to reclaim their TOKİ application fee. A common follow-up question is when the refund will be made; typically, the refund is processed within about two weeks. To receive the refund for the TOKİ application fee, make sure you provide the bank with a correct and valid account number.
What documents do retirees need to apply to TOKİ?
The TOKİ announcements for retirees have generated many questions, including which documents are required to apply. According to TOKİ’s published guidance, applicants from the low-income and retiree groups should typically provide:
- A clear photocopy of an identity card
- The original entitlement certificate from the relevant pension fund for veterans, duty-disabled persons, families of martyrs, widows and orphans
- If the applicant is disabled or elderly, a full hospital medical board report from a state hospital indicating at least 40% disability
- A retirement ID document from the Social Security Institution, or if it has not yet been issued, a written document proving retirement status
These requirements apply primarily to low-income and retiree applicants. Middle- and higher-income group projects have different application conditions. TOKİ often markets these programs specifically as special campaigns for retirees.
How many applications are expected for TOKİ in 2018?
Given the attractiveness of these opportunities and the high number of households experiencing financial hardship, TOKİ application numbers for 2018 are expected to be substantial; estimates suggest about 264,000 applications. Contributing factors include rising real estate prices and shrinking household assets. For example, Adana has seen around 16,694 applications, while Ankara’s figure is approximately 32,146. In cooperation with the General Directorate of Social Assistance, these projects generally construct apartments of about 45 square meters, typically one bedroom plus a living room.
Is it possible to find cheap homes through TOKİ?
Applications to the Social Assistance and Solidarity Foundations have increased significantly, reflecting growing levels of financial need and helping push TOKİ application numbers toward the estimated 264,000. TOKİ has long promoted the “affordable homes” approach by building housing for low- and middle-income families; these units are typically one bedroom plus a living room. Applicants who wish to secure a TOKİ affordable home must complete their applications by the end of June and deposit the TOKİ application fee at their bank along with the required documents.
What developments are planned in the 2018 TOKİ program for low-income households and retirees?
TOKİ has long aimed to provide housing for low-income and retired families, and in 2018 it launched projects allocated by province under the “TOKİ project 2018” initiative. In independent brand studies covering 2016–2017, TOKİ has been recognized as a leading public brand, and the agency continues large-scale efforts to address housing shortages. Plans such as constructing 150,000 units in Istanbul to help mitigate severe urban sprawl are seen as important measures for improving living conditions. In 2018, TOKİ’s programs are expected to enable a large group of low-income households and retirees who previously could not afford homes to become homeowners.
Are there specific plans for Istanbul?
Istanbul, one of the country’s most valuable and densely populated cities, remains a central focus of TOKİ projects. TOKİ’s 2018 planning for Istanbul includes an allocation of 150,000 housing units. These developments, combined with urban transformation efforts, are expected to help reduce housing pressure in the city. TOKİ offers low monthly payments for qualifying low-income applicants and retirees; for example, some payment plans can start as low as 185 TRY per month, making homeownership more attainable without destabilizing household finances. Given that some retirement pensions are around 800 TRY, these payment plans are particularly appealing.
Are there any extra requirements to apply to TOKİ?
According to TOKİ announcements, all you need to do is bring the requested documents to the bank and pay the application fee to be entered into the lottery. No additional procedures or fees are required for participation in the TOKİ draw. For more detailed information and to ensure that you complete the process correctly, consult TOKİ’s official announcements and guidance from the institution.