current cost of a kilim in Istanbul

I did not buy a rug while in Turkey but look at the shops(in Sultanahamet area of Istanbul) near Arasta Market. In Kusadasi we went to a rug dealer where they served tea, showed the silk worms, and gave some history of rug making. The rug I really loved cost over $4,000. I had to convince the dealer that any purchase of that size would require actually seeing it in the room I planned to use it in. He was very pushy and we were next led into a jewelry shop before exiting. I did not see anyone in our group purchase a rug. I don't look at the experience as a negative one and came away knowing my favorite rugs are wool rather than silk. Enjoy your visit to Turkey!

There is no "current cost", it's what you're willing to pay. It's been that way since the beginning of rug selling. My experience is years old but I can give you some advice about bargaining, which is the key to getting a good price. First of all, if they tell you it's made with all natural dyes it better be over 100 years old or it will be made with chemical dyes. Don't argue with them about it, just know what you're buying. NEVER pay more than 60% of what they're asking! Act embarrassed and say you don't want to offend them but all you can pay is "x", starting at about 40% of what they ask. In other words, offer €400 if they're asking €1000. They will act as if you're crazy but it's all part of the game. Have fun with it. Show them some weakness and add in another 3-5% but be reluctant about it. They will claim it's just not enough but stick to it. Tell them you really like it but there are other shops you want to check out first before you decide. Tell them you might come back later. They won't want you to leave and they'll make another offer. If they don't then just leave. If you really want that particular kilim come back later with a 50% offer and let them "convince" you to offer more. That's when you offer 60% or less if you think they might take it. If you give more than that you will be paying too much. There are tens of thousands of kilims for sale in Istanbul. If you can't make a deal at one shop you'll be able to do it at another. It really depends on how determined you are and how much time you want to spend hunting and bargaining for the right one at the right price. I paid USD $1200 for one that started out at $2800 and it was appraised at $3500 back here in the U.S. Above all have fun with it. Good Luck!