The island of Cyprus has been popular with western Europeans since the Crusades and before. Seeped in history Cyprus has always been a valuable part of the trade routes from the East to the West. Goods from exotic places were brought from the Levant to the island, being traded and sent to western countries.
This relationship with history remains, with the Northern part of the island still being ruled by Turkey, whilst the rest of the island is very Greek in its Government and culture. The most popular
Cyprus property is in the southern Greek part of the island, although increasing numbers of people are looking at the cheaper Turkish northern part; however the facilities and amenities are not always readily available in the north. Added to this the political situation, with Cyprus and Greece part of the EC and Turkey still awaiting membership, some people are reticent to invest in the north.
Large ex-pat communities live in Cyprus both as retirees and businessmen. Many western European people have holiday homes here or live much of their time on the island. The British have, in particular, a presence here due to historical links as a British colony, the island gaining its independence in 1960, retaining to this day two sovereign territory areas. However ex-forces personnel are not the only people who have come back here to live permanently because they liked it so much. Many of the millions of tourists who visit the island every year return to stay.
The fact that Cyprus was ceded to Britain in 1878 means that most British people find it much easier to adapt to life here rather than in less anglified countries, where language can be a problem. Most people speak English, certainly in southern Cyprus although the official languages of the island are Greek and Turkish. This is a great advantage to the English speaking potential buyer, and people are friendly and helpful both when looking for or at properties, and indeed after moving to the island.
A wide spectrum of properties is to be found. Whether you are looking for a seaside apartment or flat, a townhouse or part of one, one of the many villas with sea views or just inland, within easy reach of beaches and amenities, or an original farmhouse there is property on the island to suite all tastes and budgets. Many of the areas away from towns and resorts lie in unspoiled countryside ideal for the ‘quiet life’ whilst being within easy distance of amenities and the coast. A view of favourite and popular areas can easily be had by a simple tour of the island to help buyers decide on the areas best suited to each individual.
Cyprus property
is likely to remain popular with western Europeans, not least because of the climate, but also because of the mature property market that has grown up here over the years, making buying Cyprus property easier than it has ever been.
