FAQ

Is it worth buying real estate at an early stage?

In Northern Cyprus, many people choose to purchase OFFPLAN properties, meaning before construction begins or is completed. In the early stages of an investment, prices can be 30–60% lower than after completion, which makes this form of purchase particularly attractive for investors. An additional advantage is a wider selection of available units within the project.

When buying OFFPLAN, buyers primarily evaluate the surrounding area, the plot, as well as the plans and visualizations prepared by the developer. Ideally, it is also possible to review the developer’s previous completed projects in order to assess construction standards and finishing quality.

However, it is worth remembering that there are also excellent properties available that are already under construction or newly completed. Their greatest advantage is the ability to carefully inspect exactly what you are buying.

Is it worth reserving a property in advance?

If you have already decided on a specific project, making a reservation definitely makes sense — it allows you to secure the best available unit as well as the current price. Usually, a deposit of 2,000–10,000 GBP is required, which reserves the property for 2–4 weeks and guarantees the purchase at the agreed price (even if prices increase in the meantime).

The paid amount is then deducted at the final stage of the purchase, while in the case of cancellation it is non-refundable. However, after prior agreement, many developers allow the reservation to be transferred to another property within their portfolio.

What are the additional costs when purchasing a property?

Taxes and additional fees for foreigners — status as of December 2025

0.5% of the contract value – stamp duty, payable upon registration of the purchase agreement.

5% of the contract value – VAT, payable after construction is completed (some developers include it in the price earlier).

9% of the contract value – property purchase tax.

6% payable at the time of registering the stamped agreement at the local land registry office.

An additional 3% upon transfer of the title deed to the buyer.

Holders of Turkish passports pay a total of 6–9% (details are explained by a lawyer).

Approximately £2,500 – legal service costs (the initial consultation is often free).

Approximately £600 – PTP fee (application for purchase approval).

Approximately £3,000 – one-time fee for connecting water and electricity after construction is completed (the so-called transformer fee).

Property tax – approximately 2 TL per m² per year
(e.g. 200 TL — about 7 EUR — for a 100 m² apartment).

How long does it take to purchase a property?

It is a very individual matter. Some people fall in love with the first property they view, sign a PoA (Power of Attorney) with a lawyer, and have everything arranged within a single day.

Others prefer to have a wider selection and the opportunity to compare options, or they spend time thoroughly reviewing offers beforehand.

There are also buyers who purchase remotely without ever having visited Northern Cyprus before. Everything is possible. My advice: choose a reliable and experienced partner (if you wish, I would be happy to be that person), allow yourself to be properly guided when it comes to numbers and facts, and beyond that — follow your heart.

What protections/guarantees do investors have in Northern Cyprus?

When purchasing property in Northern Cyprus, security is the top priority. As local experts, we ensure that your investment is in the best hands and that you benefit from comprehensive guarantees.

Trusted developers: An experienced and financially stable developer is crucial. We know the best projects and support you with our behind-the-scenes expertise.
Construction defect warranty: You receive a 5-year warranty on the structural shell and a 1-year warranty on interior finishing — so you can feel secure in the long term.
Legal protection: All contracts are reviewed by experienced lawyers, ensuring the purchase is fully legally secure.
Secure payments: Payments are made through your lawyer’s escrow accounts, protecting your investment.
Proven quality: We recommend only projects that have already proven their quality and reliability.

Timeline after signing the contract

During the 2–4 week reservation period, you receive the purchase agreement from your lawyer, which you can review with them and, if necessary, refine. About two weeks after signing the contract, the first larger payment for the property is required (usually 30–50%; in the case of resale properties, typically the full amount).

This payment is first transferred to your lawyer. The lawyer verifies all documents, registers the property in your name, and then releases the funds to the developer. You do not need to be present for this. Subsequent payments are made at regular intervals or according to construction progress, directly to the developer. The payment plan usually ends upon completion of construction, when the keys are handed over.

However, some developers offer extended payment schedules (3–10 years) that go beyond the construction period itself. This means you can already live in the property, rent it out, or sell it even though it has not yet been fully paid for.

At the same time, some developers allow a 100% upfront payment, which makes it possible to obtain a discount (usually 3–5%).