Northern Cyprus - Is Your Investment Protected?

With the process of rapprochement between the two communities underway, many brave (again mainly British), souls have chanced their arm with an investment in the northern property market. Whilst there are unquestionably many property bargains to be had in the beautiful and still largely unspoilt north, a note of caution: the risk of losing your entire investment is a very real threat unless you have a cast iron guarantee to the title. This is because the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is legally recognised by very few countries except Turkey, and therefore the legal position of title deeds issued in the TRNC (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) over the last three decades is precarious to say the least. A lot will depend on Turkey's entry into the European Union, if and when it happens. Since border restrictions were lifted and Greek Cypriots have been allowed to cross the demarcation line, many have visited land or homes lost after the Turkish invasion, and may be expected to press for restitution or compensation in any negotiated bi-communal settlement. Therefore, buying in the north is probably only for the more determined or adventurous bargain hunter.