Thinking about buying property in Occupied Cyprus?

Anyone considering buying property in the occupied North of Cyprus should exercise caution. Take a look at this recent letter (04.05.06) that was published in the Cyprus Times newspaper:

Sir,

I would appreciate your assistance in bringing to public attention the possible problems in purchasing property in `TRNC´. Last July 2005, my wife and I entered into a contract with a builder to have a property constructed in Alsancak (occupied Karavas). We signed contracts and deposited 19,000 Sterling Pounds as the initial installment. In October, we were advised by the Estate Agent who was managing the development that the builder had mistakenly signed the property to another party. From then until now, our lawyer has been unable to recover our money, despite promises from the builder.

I feel it may need to be brought to public attention and in particular any Europeans who may be considering purchasing property in `TRNC´ of the possible problems which may occur.

If your newspaper were to investigate the background to this problem it may assist others in the future, and hopefully prevent the reputation of the building industry from being tarnished.

I trust you find this of consumer interest, and look forward to hearing from you.

Regards,

Mr Jim Gallacher