So you have been exploring the stunning rural areas of Cyprus and fallen in love with a traditional village home which is up for sale. Whether it is practically a shell which needs rebuilding or is an abandoned house which simply needs a bit of TLC, you can already see how you would like to renovate it for your own use or as an investment. Or maybe you have spotted a property in an urban area as there is also a great deal of beautiful architecture in town.

Many people follow this path when buying local property and, through hard work and patience, end up with a cosy and beautiful home which they have really made their own. There are key legal points which are important to understand in the process of transforming a charming old house into your castle. Read on....

Firstly, it is not unusual for an old property to be owned by several members of one family in Cyprus if it has been passed down through generations. In order to secure title deeds, ensure that each owner agrees to sell and will sign the necessary sales documents so that the deeds can be transferred to you.
Check with Town Planning to see if your renovation plans are acceptable. It doesn't matter if well-meaning unofficial sources tell you that your plans are alright; make sure you get the facts from the horse's mouth to avoid any complications later.

The Cyprus Government has funds for renovation of some listed properties in rural areas as part of a programme to increase the population in the villages and regenerate rural communities. Find out if the property you are purchasing falls into this category as you may be entitled to apply for financial help in the renovation process.

However, it is important to note that listed building renovated with state money carry certain renovating restrictions so make sure you know the details of what they are before signing on the dotted line. Of course, if your property is not listed, you have the freedom to renovate it as you wish providing the plans meet Town Planning standards.

A local architect can help you draw up renovation plans and also assist you with the grant application process if your building is listed and matters with Town Planning in general. Contact the Cyprus Civil Engineers and Architects Association on 22 751 221 for advice on an appropriate local professional.

It is worth knowing that the government also provides grants to homeowners who are installing renewable energy devices in their properties. If you are renovating an old building and green energy is an option you want to explore for economic or personal reasons, this could be the ideal opportunity. Solar panels are already used extensively in Cypriot houses, which means hot water in winter on sunny days (of which there are many in Cyprus!). The government can offer subsidies for solar panels, wind power and photovoltaic installations.

If your application is successful, the state will contribute a percentage towards costs of domestic green energy installations which, in some cases, could be more than half of the expense. Do note that subsidies are only available to residents of Cyprus so proof of residency is required. This may mean a visit to Immigration for the relevant documents. Check the website of the Cyprus Energy Foundation for more details or call for advice. Web address: www.cie.org.cy; telephone: (Cyprus) 22 606 060.

Start your hunt for a renovation home in Cyprus here…
If you’re searching for a Cypriot property, a good place to start is the Cyprus Buying Guide’s new property search facility. To start your search now visit http://www.cyprusbuyingguide.com/content/cyprus-properties