Handy Tips For First Time Buyers

Stay focused on the most important aspects of buying - budget, location and intended use of property. Being as specific as possible about the type of property you wish to purchase will help the agent find your dream home.

Arrange finances for purchase before agreeing to buy.  Gather and compare U.K. v Cyprus borrowings, exchange rate differences, bank transfers etc.

Speak with non-Cypriots who have already bought property and/or live in Cyprus - they can offer valuable information and it’s free!

Get to know the area in which you are thinking of buying.  Meet the people, sample the lifestyle, and amass as much information as you can to make a fully informed decision about the area you want to move into.

Do not attempt to be your own agent unless you have extensive knowledge of Cyprus. You don't want to find yourself in a situation where you have lost time and money unnecessarily.

Do not part with any deposits under any circumstances without previous legal advice and a Contract of Sale.

Amass some background information on your chosen developer, e.g. check length of time the company has been established, whether they are a partnership or Limited Company, and how many developments they have.

Property viewing is essential wherever possible.  Paper plans are fine, but seeing a completed property will help you to assess the standard and quality of building.

The Contract of Sale - your Cyprus Lawyer must explain the implications in detail.  Be sure to find out what happens if, for example, you cannot go ahead with the purchase.

If you have your own ideas for a specific type of property, can your chosen developer take them ‘on board’?

One visit is not enough if you are building your own home.  Try to oversee the progress on your building as often as possible - you should try to be flexible with travel regularly and even at short notice.