A Major Milestone in Real Estate Investment: Exclusive Interview with Dr. Sinan Duztas
We are thrilled to announce that Piccadilly Estates has been officially accepted into the prestigious Berkeley Premier Club, an exclusive network reserved for the most successful and trusted real estate advisors working with Berkeley Group.
This highly selective membership is awarded only to firms that demonstrate exceptional performance, reliability, and a client-first approach in the real estate market. Being part of the Berkeley Premier Club is a significant achievement and a testament to Piccadilly Estates’ expertise and credibility in London’s property sector.
As part of this recognition, Berkeley Premier Club conducted an exclusive interview with us. Dr. Sinan Duztas, Founder of Piccadilly Estates, shared his journey from investment banking to real estate, insights into London’s investment landscape, and the key priorities of Turkish buyers. He also highlighted the strong investment potential of Berkeley developments and their long-term value.
Read the full interview published by Berkeley Group below:
From Investment Banking to Real Estate: An Interview with Dr. Sinan Duztas
1. Could you tell us about your academic background and early career? What sparked your interest in pursuing a PhD?
I earned a PhD in Management and Organisation with a specialisation in Strategic Management from Yeditepe University in Istanbul. My academic journey began with a degree in Electronic Engineering from Middle East Technical University (ODTÜ) in Ankara.
I have always been driven by curiosity and a desire to optimise complex systems, whether in engineering or management. Pursuing a PhD was not just about achieving a title; it was about mastering analytical and strategic thinking skills, which continue to define my approach to business today.
2. Before transitioning into property, what industries did you work in, and how did those experiences shape your professional outlook?
I started my career in Istanbul, working in technology and finance roles at Yapı Kredi Bank and İş Bank for seven years. After moving to London in 2005, I held various positions at major financial institutions, including 13 years at a leading German investment bank.
These experiences gave me deep insights into financial markets, investment strategies, and risk management. More importantly, they taught me how to evaluate investment opportunities, manage stakeholder relationships, and develop a long-term vision – all of which seamlessly translated into the real estate sector.
3. What inspired you to transition from your previous career to property? Was there a particular moment or project that ignited your passion?
My interest in property investment began with personal experience. I purchased two apartments in Berkeley’s Queenshurst development in Kingston, and the exceptional capital growth and rental yields far exceeded traditional financial instruments.
This success transformed my perspective. I realised that real estate offered a unique blend of security, profitability, and long-term appreciation. That’s when I decided to turn my passion into a career—helping others unlock similar investment opportunities.
4. What advice do you have for new property investors?
For those entering the property market, I always emphasize these six key principles:
Do Your Research: Understand market trends, price dynamics, and demand drivers.
Set Clear Goals: Are you focusing on rental income, capital appreciation, or a combination of both?
Know Your Finances: Set a budget and explore financing options to avoid overextension.
Diversify Your Portfolio: Don’t concentrate all resources in one location or property type.
Start Small: Gain experience with manageable investments before expanding.
Prepare for Market Fluctuations: Be aware of potential risks and have contingency plans in place.
5. Can you share a success story from your client portfolio?
One of the best examples involves early investments in projects like TwelveTrees Park and Wandsworth Mills. I encouraged clients to secure units during the pre-launch phase, allowing them to purchase below market value.
This early entry strategy not only resulted in significant savings but also positioned them for substantial capital growth as the developments progressed. Seeing clients achieve such strong returns is always rewarding.
6. What are some of your favourite Berkeley Group developments, and why?
Several Berkeley projects stand out due to their strong investment potential and lifestyle appeal:
King’s Road Park: Having lived in Fulham, I appreciate its mix of historic charm and modern luxury.
TwelveTrees Park: Exceptional transport links make it a prime choice for future growth.
Royal Arsenal Riverside: A benchmark regeneration project delivering high returns.
Prince of Wales Drive: Proximity to Battersea Power Station and Chelsea enhances its desirability.
7. What excites you most about working in property today?
The ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and help them achieve their investment goals is what excites me most. Each client has unique priorities, and I find great satisfaction in guiding them toward the right opportunities.
I believe in transparency, market knowledge, and long-term trust, which are key pillars of success for both investors and professionals.
8. How do cultural or lifestyle considerations influence Turkish buyers when choosing properties abroad?
Turkish buyers prioritize family-friendly environments, strong investment potential, and high-end amenities. They often seek:
Spacious layouts and premium interiors
Advanced security and 24/7 concierge services
Green spaces, gardens, and balconies
Proximity to schools, transport hubs, and lifestyle attractions
For many, buying property in London is not just about investment—it’s about securing a home for their children’s education or building a long-term family legacy.
As Cigdem Sokmen, Marketing Manager at Piccadilly Estates, puts it:
“At Piccadilly Estates, we tailor our services to meet the unique expectations of Turkish buyers. We guide them through every step of their journey, ensuring their investments bring long-term satisfaction and peace of mind.”
9. What are the most common investment objectives for Turkish buyers—rental yields, capital appreciation, or personal use?
Turkish investors typically aim for a balanced investment strategy, considering:
✔️ Stable rental income from London’s high-demand rental market
✔️ Long-term capital appreciation with strong growth potential
✔️ Personal use, often tied to family relocation or education needs
London remains an attractive investment hub due to its transparent buying process, strong legal framework, and long-term market stability.
Conclusion
Piccadilly Estates is honoured to be part of the Berkeley Premier Club, reinforcing our commitment to providing top-tier investment opportunities in London.
For those considering high-yield property investments in the UK, our team at Piccadilly Estates is here to guide you every step of the way.
📩 Contact us today to explore exclusive investment opportunities!
Reference: Berkeley Group
