In these circumstances, promises and the willingness of locals to help may meet the Authority's objections. A more serious consideration however is section 4A of the Streets' and Buildings' Regulations. This amendment of the Law states that, in certain cases, no building permit will be granted to plots of land which are the result of field subdivision. Therefore, the derivation of the site's title must be examined and verified by the District Lands' Office.

The direct approach (find out who the owner is of the plot you are interested in and ask him if he wants to sell) may prove to be the best one. Bear in mind that it is the seller who pays for the commission of the agents and not the purchaser and for this reason agents have the owner's interest at heart and not yours.

Another factor which is also related to the price, is the payment terms. A developer could be asking a high price for flats but he could be offering very attractive payment terms over a long period. Compare, therefore, not only the extent, quality etc. of a flat, but also the payment terms in order to ascertain who is offering you the best deal.

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.

By law, a non-Cypriot in Cyprus is entitled to a residence permit but is not required to hold a permanent residence permit the latter being easy to obtain once certain requirements are fulfilled. You need to submit an application and provide proof that you and your family are self supporting. The following documents must accompany your application: A copy of the sale/rental agreement Copies of pension/retirement income Any other document(s) relevant to income Three photos and passport(s) The application for permanent residence may be submitted to the local immigration office in the area of residence.