TL;DR
TOKİ announced plans to deliver 15,000 affordable rental homes in Istanbul by 2026. The project aims to provide affordable housing options for low- and middle-income residents. Application criteria and process are now available.
TOKİ has officially announced the launch of a new housing project in Istanbul that will deliver 15,000 affordable rental homes by 2026. The project aims to address housing affordability challenges in the city and is open to specific applicant groups, with detailed eligibility criteria now published.
The Turkish Housing Development Administration (TOKİ) revealed that the project involves constructing 15,000 rental units across various districts in Istanbul, targeted for completion in 2026. The project is part of the government’s broader initiative to expand affordable housing options in major urban centers.
According to TOKİ officials, applications will be accepted from low- and middle-income residents who meet specific income and residency requirements. The application process and eligibility criteria are now available on TOKİ’s official channels, and applicants are advised to submit their applications before the deadline.
Officials emphasized that this project is part of a larger effort to reduce housing costs and increase rental options for residents who struggle with high housing prices in Istanbul.
Implications for Istanbul’s Housing Market
This project could significantly impact housing affordability in Istanbul by providing more rental options for residents, particularly those in lower income brackets. It also reflects the government’s focus on public housing initiatives as a response to urban housing shortages and rising prices. The availability of 15,000 units may ease some pressure on the rental market and influence rental prices in the city.

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Background on TOKİ’s Housing Initiatives in Istanbul
TOKİ has historically played a key role in Turkey’s housing development, especially in urban areas like Istanbul. Previous projects have focused on affordable homeownership, but recent initiatives increasingly include rental housing to meet diverse needs. The 2026 project aligns with ongoing efforts to address Istanbul’s dense population and housing affordability crisis, which has been exacerbated by rapid urbanization and economic factors.
This announcement follows earlier statements from government officials about expanding rental housing options, with the aim of providing stable, affordable living arrangements for residents who are unable to buy homes due to high prices.
“This project aims to provide 15,000 affordable rental units by 2026, targeting low- and middle-income residents in Istanbul.”
— TOKİ Official

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Details on Application Eligibility and Process
While the project details and application criteria have been announced, it is still unclear how quickly applications will be processed, the exact locations of the units, and whether additional eligibility restrictions will apply. Further updates from TOKİ are expected as the application period approaches.

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Next Steps for Applicants and Project Timeline
Applicants should review the detailed eligibility criteria and application instructions published by TOKİ. The application window is expected to open soon, with further updates on deadlines and documentation requirements. The project aims for completion by 2026, with phased delivery starting as early as 2025.

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Key Questions
Who is eligible to apply for the TOKİ rental homes in Istanbul?
Eligible applicants are low- and middle-income residents who meet specific income and residency criteria, as detailed on TOKİ’s official website.
How can I apply for the rental housing project?
Applications will be accepted through TOKİ’s official online platform or designated local offices. Detailed instructions will be provided on their website.
When will the application process start?
The exact start date has not been announced yet, but it is expected to begin shortly as the project approaches its launch phase.
Where will the new rental units be located in Istanbul?
The specific districts and locations are still being finalized. Further details will be announced by TOKİ in upcoming updates.
What is the estimated timeline for project completion?
The project aims for completion by 2026, with phased delivery expected to begin in late 2025.
Source: local