Signing a Property Contract: What to Check Before You Put Pen to Paper
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. When you finally find the right property, it's tempting to sign quickly before someone else does. But a rushed signature can lead to costly problems later.
Signing a property contract calls for time, care and attention to detail. Here are the key points to check before you sign. For official property information, you can also visit the Department of Lands and Surveys portal at https://portal.dls.moi.gov.cy/.
The Title Deed and Legal Checks
Start with the title deed. Before signing a property contract, make sure you know exactly who the registered owner is and that they have the right to sell.
Check whether the property is burdened with any mortgages, memos, prohibitions or other encumbrances, and agree in writing how and when these will be released. If you're buying a new-build property, ask whether a separate title deed has been issued yet. In many cases it has not, which makes it even more important to check whether the developer's land is mortgaged and how your rights will be protected until the title is transferred to you.
Also confirm that the property has the necessary planning and building permits. These checks help you avoid complicated legal problems in the future.
Clear Payment Terms and Deposits
The payment terms must be completely clear. Your contract should state how much deposit you pay and when, as well as the exact schedule and conditions for any further payments.
Before committing, make sure you can comfortably meet every payment, especially if part of the price depends on a mortgage. Avoid vague wording that could cause misunderstandings, and link payments for new builds to specific stages of construction. You can find available properties at G&P Lazarou.
Delivery Dates and Delay Penalties
For off-plan or new-build properties, the delivery date is just as important as the price. What happens if the developer finishes late?
Your contract should include a clear delivery date and specific compensation or penalties if that date is missed. This gives you protection and encourages the seller to meet their commitments on time.
Legal Representation and Final Steps
Never go through a property purchase alone. Always have your own independent lawyer review the contract before you sign. Your lawyer will check the legal details, suggest changes where needed and explain your rights and obligations.
After signing, your lawyer should deposit the contract at the Land Registry as soon as possible. This protects your right to have the property transferred into your name, even if problems arise with the seller later. Since 1 January 2026, stamp duty no longer applies to sale contracts.
Good preparation brings real peace of mind. Our experienced team works closely with your lawyer so that every step, from the first viewing to the signature, runs as smoothly as possible.
Contact G&P Lazarou Estate Agents today on +357 22024949 or at sales@gplazarou.com to arrange a private viewing.
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