Will housing loan interest rates decrease? Expectations for interest rates in 2026, inflation, Central Bank decisions, and their effects on the real estate market.
Mortgage interest rates continue to be one of the most closely followed topics by those looking to buy a home. Especially with the high levels of credit costs expected to persist until June 2026, this directly affects home buying decisions.
Today, many buyers prefer to maintain their cash power rather than purchasing a home using credit. This is because the total repayment amount in long-term mortgage loans has become the most significant factor complicating the purchasing decision.
It does not seem realistic to expect a rapid and strong decrease in the short term. The Central Bank's stance on tight monetary policy indicates that credit interest rates may remain high for a while longer. Without a permanent decline in inflation expectations and a clearer easing of monetary policy, a significant relaxation in mortgage loans seems unlikely.
However, the possibility of a gradual decrease in interest rates in the medium term has not completely disappeared. If the downward trend in inflation strengthens, market expectations improve, and the Central Bank starts to cut rates, a downward movement in mortgage rates from banks may also be observed.
During this process, the most important issue will be the speed of the decrease. Mortgage interest rates may not suddenly return to their previous low levels. A more likely scenario is a gradual decline in rates over time.
The high-interest environment is increasing the power of cash buyers in the real estate market. Those who can make purchases without needing credit are in a more advantageous position during the negotiation process. Therefore, interest in properties priced below their value or reasonably priced according to market conditions continues.
In high-demand areas like Bodrum, the situation is somewhat different. The expectation of a general decline in prices is not strong. However, high credit costs are causing buyers to be more selective. Property owners who want to sell quickly may need to price their properties more realistically.
When interest rates decrease, a new movement in the market may occur. Easier access to credit could enable waiting buyers to return to the market. This situation could particularly increase demand for mid-segment housing.
In conclusion, there is an expectation of a decrease in mortgage interest rates. However, this decrease should not be expected to be rapid and sharp in the short term. In the second half of 2026, the direction of interest rates will be determined by inflation, Central Bank decisions, and banks' credit policies.
For those planning to buy a home, the most accurate approach is not to focus solely on the interest rate but to evaluate the total repayment cost, negotiation opportunities, and the real market value of the property together.
Mortgage interest rates directly affect purchasing decisions.
In periods of high interest, cash buyers are stronger.
A decrease in interest rates can revive housing demand.
Properly priced properties provide advantages in every period.
Long-term value expectations are maintained in strong areas like Bodrum.
