Tips/advice/guidance on finding and reliable realtors and lawyers

I am unable to contribute as i live on the Eaternside of the island. No further comment.

Londondoc Congratulations on your choice of Cyprus!

You have a lot of work to do but you have realistic timescales. Bear in mind that the golden visa is constantly changing and given the timescale might need constant review.

Be aware there have been a number of issues with developers and lawyer recently here. It is a bit like the wild west when it comes to property, land and lawyers. Buyer beware!

If you have been in Cyprus just before Brexit you might already qualify for PR without a property purchase.

Have you chosen the area or is that the reason for your next visit?

There are a number of forum members who will probably be able to help with some suggestions on property purchase off plan. There is a lot of building going on now and prices had increased but I see they are leveling out and with the big influx of property being built it might outstrip demand. This will increase pressure on prices in a downward direction possibly.

Warm welcome @Londondoc !

Please note that this new thread has been created from your posts on the Cyprus forum so that you may better interact with members.

All the best

Bhavna

@Bhavna

Thank you very much !

@phildraper

Thanks for that, Phil. It is Paphos where we want to put new roots down, if the planets align well. Your comment on the 'wild west' scenario---That is food for thought. I was under the impression that with EU regs and a British-based judicial/conveyancing system things would not be too hairy. And I note that new builds seems quite expensive. Decent quality 3-bed villas are meriting 6 or 7 or 800 k. Those are eye-watering numbers.

@londondoc

It's definitely wild west scenario in the property world.. however you just have to be careful with your choice of developer lawyer and surveyor if you need to have one. 

Check and double check everything and never ever use the same lawyer as the person selling the property whether that be a developer, agent or private seller.

Good luck and enjoy the planning stages

It’s a small world here, and most people in the development business know each other well, and are connected to lawyers, accountants etc.,

My advice - get your own lawyers and ensure as best as you’re able there’s no conflict of interest.

Always communicate in writing, and confirm telephonic conversations in writing. Ask if you’ve omitted anything.

Don’t rush into a decision. Time is on your side given your time horizon, but take into account the pace of life here is slow. Be patient.

When looking at a development look for things beyond the boundaries. Any potential new builds likely which may affect your views or quality of light.

Once you’ve found your “ideal” development - ensure there are penalty clauses for late completion, and have a QS on hand to ensure that which is promised is fully delivered and to supervise the build if you’re going to be in London.

As a rule of thumb, with new builds - it will take twice as long and cost twice as much. Again, ensure your contracts are water tight with penalty clauses as noted above.

it’s sunshine nearly all year round, though November to February is quite variable. If you are up in the hills, or have large square footage design in both heating / cooling - maybe a ground source heat pumps / solar power.

Have adequate insurance. “Sod’s Law”. What can go wrong, will go wrong.

As long as you’ve “tied your camel” - taken all the steps you can to do, like due diligence and use independent advisers, you can hopefully mitigate most things. It’s okay to follow your heart and relocate to Cyprus . Please follow your head, not your heart, in respect of choosing a developer, site, lawyer, accountant, QS and insurance. Happy chat if you would like, though I’m not often here, I check from time to time.

Best of luck and be sure to enjoy the journey as much as the destination!

Not directly related to your query, but be aware that if you're both going to be receiving NHS pensions, then  under the double taxation agreement, as "government" pensions they will be liable to income tax in the UK, not Cyprus, even if/when you become tax resident in Cyprus.

@Rayy72

Thank you very much.

Hi

Moved to Frenaros in the east.

Used island homes lawyer  for purchase off plan. Whole process went with no hic ups.

Deeds, purchase, perm residency,  wills, gesy. TAX etc.

All more efficient than UK. Reasonable fees, nice people.  I Dont understand some people's experience here. Tip ...do your research, if its too good to be true then it is, dont try and be too clever . .