Finding a Cypriot property lawyer
Buying property in Cyprus is a potentially complicated legal process and one which it is vital to get right. Find a good property lawyer early in the process, before you sign any agreement to buy a property.
Here, we’ll provide information on why their expertise is crucial for a smooth and successful property purchase, take an in-depth look at the role of the Cypriot property lawyer, share how to find a reliable lawyer and outline the services they provide.
Why you need an independent property lawyer in Cyprus
While home-hunting in Cyprus, your agent may offer to put you in touch with their own lawyer to assist with the sales process.
There’s nothing to say that there’s any ill-intent here, to avoid any conflict of interest it is generally better to select and hire your own lawyer. That way you know that they are working entirely in your interests.
If your lawyer is an expert on immigration law, that can be extremely helpful for international buyers from outside the European Union, for whom different rules may apply.
How to find a reliable lawyer in Cyprus
According to the Cyprus Bar Association, there are approximately 4,000 lawyers in Cyprus, so you won’t have any trouble finding one.
If you know anyone who has recently bought property in Cyprus, a good place to start is to ask them if they’d recommend the lawyer they used.
Alternatively, you can use popular search engines to find lawyers who operate in the regions you’re interested in, to find local lawyers and narrow down your search.
If you’re still struggling, you can check with the Cyprus Bar Association.
Most Cypriot lawyers will be able to assist clients in English, Russian and sometimes Arabic too.
You should look for a law firm that specialises in property law and has experience assisting foreign buyers with their purchases. This can help prevent any common pitfalls as they may have faced similar issues before with international clients.
Overall, you should look for:
- Relevant expertise: in your area of need i.e. property law and/or visas & residency
- A good reputation: Check recent reviews and testimonials.
- Fees: Consider the firm’s fees and how/when clients are billed
- Communication: Look for evidence of the lawyer’s approach. You want someone you feel comfortable talking to.
Once you have narrowed your search down to a couple of firms, you should schedule consultations. Please note, that not all firms offer free initial consultations. During these first meetings, you will have the opportunity to ask any preliminary questions about their services and get to know the lawyer.
The role of your property lawyer in Cyprus
A property lawyer in Cyprus will not only oversee your entire buying process, but they will often be able to advise you on other branches of law, such as visa, tax and inheritance too.
Your lawyer’s first job is to complete legal due diligence on the property to ensure there aren’t any existing restrictions on the home. This will include checking the title deeds are legitimate and that the current seller has the right to sell the property.
If necessary, your independent lawyer in Cyprus can inform you about any legal requirements specific to foreign buyers, such as obtaining permission from the Council of Ministers if you’re a non-EU citizen.
Your lawyer will also be able to handle the financial aspects of your purchase, negotiate terms with the seller (if necessary) and provide ongoing legal support, especially if any issues arise with the property or its ownership.
Once you have the keys, your lawyer will register the sale with the Land Registry Office, which is a crucial step in transferring ownership and protecting your rights to the property.
Legal fees
There’s no flat fee for the services of a law firm in your Cypriot property purchase as firms have hourly rates that vary depending on the seniority of the lawyer involved and the services required.
Typically, legal fees are charged as a percentage of the property purchase, often ranging from 1-2% plus VAT.
For a more accurate picture, speak to a Cypriot property lawyer. Some firms offer free quotes or consultations, while you may have to pay for others.