Owning Property in Turkey

After a couple visits to Turkey, I am ready to consider investing in some property in Bursa. In the past I have learned from some friends who live in Bursa that it can be difficult to renew thier visas without owning property. Some even told me that you had to own property to live there longterm.

I love the people and city of Bursa and I'm considering moving there as my primary home.  My goal is to seek a more permanent residency.

Is it true that owning property will help obtain residential visas? 

Some friends that live in Bursa have expressed some difficulty of renwing visas. Is there any advice that will help expedite the visa issues that some experience?