Buyers Guide
About Cyprus
Cyprus, located in the Eastern Mediterranean, holds a strategic position as a crossroads between three continents. Throughout history, travelers have passed through Cyprus on various journeys. Its closest neighboring lands at coastal points include Turkey, 40 miles to the north; Syria, 60 miles to the east; Lebanon, 108 miles southeast; Israel, 180 miles southeast; and Egypt, 230 miles to the south. Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, smaller than Sicily and Sardinia but larger than Corsica and Crete.
Cyprus bears traces of ancient civilizations, including the Assyrians, Phoenicians, Macedonians, Hellenists, Persians, Romans, Egyptians, Byzantines, Crusaders, French Lusignans, Venetians, Ottomans, and the British. With such a diverse historical background, Cyprus has developed a unique cultural character, blending all these influences, and making properties in Northern Cyprus truly special. The island’s total area is 3,584 square miles (9,282 square km), with Northern Cyprus occupying approximately one-third of that, covering 1,357 square miles (3,355 square km) and stretching 100 miles in length and 40 miles across at its widest point.
Northern Cyprus’s geography is a unique mix of mountains, plains, and beautiful beaches. Its coastline offers stunning, uncrowded beaches. The scenic mountain range provides a breathtaking backdrop to these beaches, while also featuring historical sites like the three mountaintop castles—Buffavento, Kantara, and the renowned St. Hilarion Castle, believed to have inspired Walt Disney’s castle in Snow White.
In spring, Northern Cyprus blossoms with wildflowers, some of which are endemic, adding beauty to the landscape and enhancing the appeal of the island’s villas. The Kyrenia Range, with its dramatic limestone peaks, extends along much of the northern coastline, reaching its highest point at Mount Selvili (3,357 ft). Further east, this range tapers down along the narrow Karpas Peninsula, also known as "The Panhandle," home to some of the island’s best beaches, pristine bays with white sands, and charming homes.
South of the Kyrenia Range lies the Mesaoria Plain, home to the capital of Northern Cyprus, Nicosia (known locally as Lefkoşa). Other major centers include Güzelyurt and Lefke in the west, where much of the region’s citrus is produced. On the northern coast lies Kyrenia (Girne to locals), a popular resort town, while the eastern city of Famagusta (Gazimağusa) is known for its historical sites and beautiful coastline.
Title Deeds Types in Northern Cyprus
If you’re considering investing in Northern Cyprus real estate, understanding the different types of property deeds is essential, given the island's unique history. Below are the main types of title deeds:
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Turkish Title Deeds
This deed type indicates the property or land was Turkish Cypriot-owned before 1974, carrying no risks for the buyer. -
Es Değer (of Equal Value) Title Deeds
This deed applies to properties that were Greek-owned pre-1974. After the division of Cyprus, Greek Cypriots moved to the South, and Turkish Cypriots moved to the North, with many receiving properties in exchange for those they left in the South. While generally safe, this deed may carry compensation risks, managed by the Immovable Property Commission (IPC). As of January 29, 2014, the IPC had processed 5,749 applications, with settlements including compensation payments totaling GBP 145,019,701. For further information on the IPC, visit www.tamk.gov.ct.tr. -
TMD Land
After 1974, unoccupied lands used for agriculture were allocated to Turkish citizens as an incentive to settle in Northern Cyprus. In recent years, ownership rights were granted, though this title may also carry compensation risks if construction has occurred on the land.
Our agents are always ready to answer any questions and guide you through these processes as you explore the possibilities in Northern Cyprus real estate.