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2025 Sets a Positive Trend for Cyprus Real Estate

The real estate market in Cyprus has surged forward in 2025, marking a significant 15% increase in property sales compared to the previous year. This remarkable growth in the first quarter is highlighted by the 4,137 sale documents filed, as per reports from the Registration Council of Real Estate Agents.

While there was a slight decrease of 2.9% in transaction volume, the sales value saw a robust increase of 15%, surpassing €1.1 billion annually. This promising start to the year reflects sustained demand and better alignment of supply to market needs.

Insights from Regional Markets

Limassol continues to dominate the market, boasting the highest value transfer at €428.7 million and leading in documentation volume with 1,295 sale filings. Additionally, the city recorded 1,203 transaction volumes, underscoring strong investment activities.

In Nicosia, stability reigns with 1,304 transactions valued at €283.5 million. The city attracted 932 new sale documents, reflecting keen interest in fresh developments.

The momentum from previous years carries on in Paphos, with 811 transfers totaling €199 million. This shows lively activity in property purchase, fueled chiefly by international buyers.

Larnaca saw €154 million in transactions from 843 property transfers. The sale documents numbered 910, indicating rising demand bolstered by ongoing investments, as featured in Desalination Breakthrough: Addressing Water Shortages in Cyprus.

Though the Famagusta region ranked lowest with €48 million and 251 transfers, the growth trend persists. The 171 sale documents filed signal an appeal through lower prices and tourism-driven development.

Tax Authorities To Step Up Checks On Coastal Businesses In Cyprus

Expanded Regulatory Oversight

Cyprus’ Tax Department plans to carry out onsite inspections of businesses in coastal areas during July and August as part of efforts to strengthen tax compliance. The inspections form part of the government’s broader tax reform programme aimed at reducing tax evasion and improving tax collection.

Targeting High-Impact Sectors

Authorities will focus primarily on businesses that experience increased customer activity during the summer tourism season. Inspections will examine compliance with receipt issuance requirements and review outstanding tax liabilities. Businesses found in breach of the regulations may face enforcement measures, including the temporary suspension of operations until compliance requirements are met.

Strict New Legal Framework

Legislation that entered into force on January 1, 2026, allows authorities to temporarily close businesses, legal entities and individuals with tax debts exceeding €20,000, as well as businesses that fail to issue receipts. Initial enforcement measures are expected to follow practices similar to those used in Greece as Cyprus expands its tax compliance efforts.

Operational Tactics And Enforcement

According to local reports, tax officials will conduct checks by comparing receipts issued by businesses with those held by customers. Inspectors will verify transaction details using digital tools and review whether receipts have been issued correctly. Businesses that fail to comply will receive three warnings and a total compliance period of 25 days before closure measures can be applied.

Focus On Large Debtors

Initial enforcement efforts will target approximately 500 businesses with tax debts exceeding €1 million. The list includes companies operating in sectors such as betting, retail, yacht sales and vehicle dealerships. Although the legislation applies to businesses with debts above €20,000, authorities have indicated that larger debtors will be prioritised during the first phase of implementation.

Future Implications And Extended Enforcement

Additional enforcement measures are expected to be introduced in 2027. Planned provisions may allow authorities to close businesses that fail to submit tax, VAT and other statutory returns. Once compliance requirements have been satisfied and verified by the Tax Commissioner, affected businesses will be permitted to resume operations.

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