Unraveling Property Rights in Northern Cyprus

[Long Beach – Yeni Iskele]

For anyone contemplating a property purchase in North Cyprus, today’s opinion piece by regular columnist Cenk Mutulyakali, published by Yeniduzen, on the new law regarding property sales to foreigners offers valuable insights. Initially, the law appears to restrict foreign property ownership, but it turns out that it actually expands property rights, especially for Turkish nationals. This significant increase in housing entitlements for Turkish citizens raises important questions about the true motivations behind the legislation.

Meanwhile other observers believe that in lieu of annexation with the mainland, Turkish investors are able to expand property ownership in the TRNC.

The author highlights that, despite a quota system designed to limit property sales to foreigners, various loopholes exist that undermine its effectiveness. Additionally, the law was rushed through without adequate data on population demographics and real estate trends, further complicating its impact on the market.

There are of course the added complexities as to who owns the land you wish to purchase or on which a property is built.

The Immovable Property Commission (IPCC) which was created in 2005 to deal with the claims of Greek Cypriot landowners prior to July 1974.

Historically there have been claims for compensation for loss of usage and property rights.

More recently, there have been cases raised against property developers building on land owned by Greek Cypriots.

One of the key concerns raised is the broader ramifications of the law. North Cyprus lacks the necessary infrastructure to support a growing population. Overcrowded schools, strained emergency services, environmental issues, and inadequate infrastructure are major concerns. This raises critical questions about the government’s planning and the long-term sustainability of such legislative decisions, which could affect potential buyers.

The author also points out the discriminatory nature of the law, where different categories of “foreigners” are treated unequally. Some are allowed to purchase multiple properties, while others are restricted to just one. This unequal distribution of property rights also fails to address the fundamental socioeconomic disparities within the housing market. As a potential buyer, this is a significant factor to consider.

Ultimately, the author’s analysis encourages prospective buyers to carefully consider the complex issues surrounding property purchases in the TRNC. By questioning the motives behind the legislation and highlighting its broader impact on society, the piece serves as a call for more thoughtful and inclusive policy making, which is crucial for anyone looking to invest in property.

Yeniduzen