Buying a plot of land is the starting point of many different property projects. Whether you’re building a new home, tower, shop, or farm, finding a plot that suits your needs can be a lengthy process. As with most countries, the Cypriot land registry has rules and regulations for each property development planning zone and, therefore, each plot of land.
If you’re looking to buy or rent a plot of land in Cyprus, here’s what you need to know.
Different types of plots
Commercial use
Commercial land refers to plots with intended use for commercial purposes and profit generation. Potential commercial uses of land include the construction of warehouses, shops, parking spaces, offices, industrial property, centres and institutions.
Residential use
If you’re looking for a piece of land ready for building a house, it’s best to look for a plot within residential planning zones. The land in these zones will usually have access to utility services (water, electricity, and telephone, and will be accessible by car.
Agricultural use
Plots of land intended for agricultural use are usually dedicated solely to the production of crops and/or cultivation of livestock (animals).
Plot features
Whilst looking for a plot, it’s essential to consider factors such as area, density, height, and planning zone.
Planning zones determine rules and guidelines concerning the following:
- Commercial / residential / agricultural zones
- Building height limits
- Building density
- Coverage ratio
Certain areas are reserved only for the construction of houses and prohibit the construction of towers and vice versa. However, there may be some exceptions to the rules, so if you want to make a tower in a zone that doesn’t allow towers, you may apply for a special permit from the land registry.
You can browse the map of Cyprus with marked planning zones through this link.
Methods of Ownership
In terms of plots, there are three main potential methods of ownership:
- Sale – For more affordable deals on plots of land, agencies, including Remuproperties, list bank-owned plots.
- Lease – Alternatively, you can lease a plot for a long-term period. This option gives leasers the advantage of long-term plot ownership without the price and commitment of buying.
- Rent – Short-term renting of land is typically ideal for temporary storage buildings or commercial structures.