Wednesday, 30 January 2008

Buying Cheap Property

By William Marind

Cyprus enjoys a remarkably low crime rate 1/6 of the European average another reason for its popularity with foreign buyers for whom security has become a key element in the property world. Visitors are invariably surprised and reassured by this relaxed aspect of life on the island, where crime is virtually unheard of and theft not commonplace. Under the Aliens and Immigration Law, non-Cypriots wishing to take up employment in Cyprus are required to have a work permit.

The transfer of the title can be effective once the Council of Ministers' permission is obtained along with confirmation of receipt of the foreign funds. Upon transfer and registration in the purchasers name the district Land Registry Office will charge transfer fees which are based on the market value of the property at the time of purchase - as follows: Value up to CY50,000 - 3% CY50,001 - CY100,000 - 5% CY100,000+ - 8%

The main developers in Cyprus tend to look after their own after sales, so your first point of call would most likely be direct to them whether it's to have alterations or to highlight any problems with the property itself. That said, we do have a wealth of experience in after sales and can act upon your behalf should things not get resolved to your satisfaction.As we only work with the most prestigious companies on the island, you'll find most of these offering in-house property maintenance services from gardening to pool maintenance, regular cleaning to ad hoc visits. If they don't offer the service you require themselves, they will certainly put you in touch with a reputable company near to your property, ensuring they are best placed to keep an eye on it for you.

When the building permit is issued works may begin. Try to avoid variations/changes as these will give rise to claims on the part of the contractor which will mean a financial loss to you. Upon completion of the work your architect must submit drawings (as built) to the Appropriate Authority, if changes have been introduced, for the issue of a covering building permit.

Bargains can still be found at the remote villages of Paphos and those of Limassol. It is strongly suggested that before concluding a deal, you obtain a firm estimate of the repairs / improvements required using the services of a qualified Q.S. or an architect, whereas what has been said previously about other property acquisitions holds good for this nature of property as well. In particular, you must check who your neighbours are, since in tightly knit communities, such as the local villages, they have their own way of living and attitudes towards life.

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