Record Transaction Value Amid Global Uncertainty
In an impressive demonstration of stability, Cyprus’ real estate market reached a historic transaction value of €5.71 billion in 2024—a modest 1% increase over the previous year. This record was achieved despite a 3% decline in the number of transactions, underscoring the market’s resilience in the face of persistent global economic challenges.
Dominance of Residential and Commercial Sectors
Residential real estate remained the engine driving the market, with a staggering €3.8 billion in transactions (67% of total value). Meanwhile, the commercial sector experienced a notable uplift in value, compensating for declines in other categories. Limassol, emerging as the clear frontrunner with 44% of total transaction value, continues to be the epicenter of both luxury and mainstream developments.
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Shifting Dynamics in Foreign Investment
The report from PwC reveals a 10% overall decline in foreign buyer demand in 2024. However, districts such as Nicosia, Famagusta, and Larnaca bucked this trend, registering growing international interest. Even though areas like Paphos and Limassol saw reduced foreign transactions, they still together accounted for more than 60% of property sales to non-nationals.
Luxury Market and Development Trends
The luxury segment, representing 9% of the total transaction value, recorded 188 transactions of high-end properties valued above €1.5 million, totaling €500 million. Limassol led luxury transactions with 74% of expenditure followed by Paphos. Additionally, while the number of building permits dropped by 2%, the value of these permits increased by 2%, reflecting a strategic pivot towards higher-quality, high-value developments in commercial and non-residential projects.
Outlook for 2025: A Promising Start
Recent data from the Cyprus Real Estate Agents Registration Council signals a positive market trajectory for 2025. With a 15% increase in sale contracts during the first quarter, and transaction values exceeding €1.1 billion, market prospects remain buoyant. Limassol continues to dominate in both sale contracts and transaction values, while Nicosia, Paphos, and Larnaca show sustained and emerging strengths respectively.
Apartment Sales: The Fuel for Continued Growth
Data from Landbank Real Estate Analytics highlights a significant shift in buyer preferences. Apertment sales surged by 22.7% in volume and 9% in value to €1.5 billion, in stark contrast to a decline in new house sales. This trend underscores local buyers’ prioritization of affordability and accessibility. Moreover, with Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos each recording dynamic shifts in their housing segments, strategic investments are adjusting to meet the evolving market demands.
Conclusion
Despite a fluctuating global economic environment, Cyprus’ real estate market has demonstrated robust resilience through strategic emphasis on residential, commercial, and luxury sectors. The sustained demand for apartments and the emerging shift in foreign investor interest toward more accessible regions present a balanced yet dynamic outlook for 2025, positioning the market for continued strength and adaptive growth.