Friday, 25 January 2008

Searching For Cyprus Property

By William Marind

Going through a company like Headlands has several advantages: you will get to see a wide range of properties in Cyprus that suit your requirements;you have the benefit of our many years experience, as well as a fully staffed office to support you in the UK; it will eliminate any possible misunderstandings ;it helps takes away the stress and strain associated with house purchasing in Cyprus.

As an indication, one should have in mind that the average construction cost for a house is between C160 to C200 per square metre and the purchase cost of building sites offered for this purpose could range from C1 to C2 per square foot in resort areas, whereas in the towns this can reach C5 per sq. f t.Credit terms on villa/building site/land/cottage acquisitions are normally made and the generally acceptable payment terms are 50% on signing and the rest over a period of 1-2 years (at 9% interest on the reducing balance).

If you are purchasing a property on a new development, it will have been set by the developers/management company. Regardless of agent's commissions, you should still pay the same price whoever you purchase through whether you go direct or through a third party. Resale properties are handled much the same way as in the UK with a valuation taking place and the agent's fees agreed before the property is marketed.

If you are contemplating the development of a complex/costly building, you are strongly advised to appoint a project manager who will manage the design team and the whole development. Also the appointment of a quantity surveyor on such large scale projects is strongly advisable.Central heating is not generally required in the seaside towns (although this is a matter of own judgment) but air conditioning (at least in the bedrooms and for the seaside areas) is recommended. The cheapest form of cooling is the normal wail mounted units. Split unit type with heat pumps is increasing in popularity and it is an alternative to be considered.

Property owners in Cyprus are advised to make a will in Cyprus to cover their Cypriot estate. A Cypriot will speed up the process of obtaining probate in Cyprus.Inheritance Tax is payable on a Cypriot estate and rates are on a sliding scale depending upon the value of the estate. Full professional advice should be obtained with regard to making a Cypriot Will and Inheritance Tax planning.

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