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Real Estate Market Year Review 2022
Real Estate Market Year Review 2022
Real Estate Market Year Review 2022
Cyprus Real
Estate Market
February 2023
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 3
Table of
Contents
Foreword 06
FY 2022 - The key highlights 07
Cyprus economy update 11
Transaction volumes / Investment activity levels 21
Sale contracts statistics 29
Foreign transaction activity 31
High-end residential property segment (≥ €1,5mln) 35
Residential property segment (€100k - €300k) 37
Real estate price evolution 39
Construction activity 41
PwC Real Estate Advisory Services 47
PwC in Cyprus 49
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 6
Foreword
We are delighted to present our latest PwC Cyprus Real Estate
Market publication. This publication provides information about the
Cyprus economy in general and an analysis of key real estate market
developments, focusing on the performance of the sector during
2022. Our analysis includes presentation of transaction activity
exhibited across the island, the residential property sector
in particular, the behaviour of property prices and developments
in the construction sector. The analysis presented is based on the
available market data for 2022, using PwC’s rich and in-depth market
expertise and data analytics capabilities.
Throughout the years, our world has been confronted by several with transaction activity levels in 2022 exceeding expectations,
serious crises. It is the first time in history however, that multiple reaching a record-high of €5,2bn in value of real estate transactions.
crises and challenges are all occurring simultaneously: the war Demand appears to be fuelled by the ongoing demographic shifts,
in Ukraine and the wider geopolitical instability, the energy crisis, in the context of a continuously growing appetite of foreign companies
disruptions in the supply chain which cause political and economic to relocate to Cyprus, a trend that has been further accelerated
instability, the persistent presence of the pandemic, all alongside the following the war in Ukraine.
accelerating climate change. The potential impact of all these factors
expands dramatically if one takes into account the interconnected and The need for fast evolution in the face of a fluctuating global
integrated environment in which we live, operate and do business. landscape, creates an urgency to pursue a more radical transformation
Faced with a difficult and uncertain future, the crucial question one of the sector, and for the industry participants to continue revisiting
must consider is, how do we prepare and reinvent for the future, whilst their strategies and priorities, focusing on concepts, products and
also maneuvering through the immediate challenges? infrastructure solutions that are sustainable and fit for the future.
The Cyprus economy has maintained solid growth during 2022, despite
the effects of increasing inflation during the year and the erosion of
purchasing power, in the midst of a weakening EU economy. The small
size of the Cypriot economy, its flexibility and extroversion, provides
agility to effectively adapt to and overcome difficulties, as evidenced by Philippos Soseilos
the optimistic forecasts for 2023 growth. In this ever-shifting landscape, CEO and Chairman
the Cyprus real estate market has proved to be particularly resilient, PwC Cyprus
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 7
FY 2022
The key highlights
Following the global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, In January 2022, the Republic of Cyprus tapped the markets again
the Cypriot economy exhibited strong signs of recovery during 2021, with a new 10-year international bond (€1bn), with a coupon rate of
with GDP exceeding pre-crisis levels (6,6%). Real GDP surpassed 0,95%. Demand for the said 10-year bond, exceeded €7,8bn, pulling
growth expectations during the first half of 2022, mainly driven by interest rates down from the peak 1,10% set by the Ministry
strong domestic demand and supported by a partial rebound in of Finance, to 0,994%. Economic uncertainty amid the war in
tourism. However, high energy prices, increasing levels of inflation Ukraine and the ECB rate hikes announcement have pushed Cyprus
and the erosion of purchasing power combined with a weakening EU bond yields upwards in the wider context of sovereign bond sell-out
economy, contribute towards a slowdown of the economy during the in secondary capital markets, with Cyprus’ 10-year bond yield rising
second half of the year. Overall, the Cyprus economy is expected above 4% in October 2022. In April 2022, the Cabinet approved the
to demonstrate solid growth during 2022, with the European issuance of Cyprus’ first ever Green Bond which will be announced
Commission estimating a real GDP growth of 5,6%. in 2023 and is aiming to yield up to €1bn.
Unemployment
7,2% - 2022 (F)
GVA Contribution
Lending Market The Real Estate & Construction
Relatively stable, recording sector’s contribution to GVA output
a marginal (4%) drop during 2022 increased by 5% (12M period
to 30 September 2022)
New mortgage loan facilities remained strong during 2022 The Real Estate & Construction sector contributed 15%
(€1.285mln), despite the expiration of the Government interest to the country’s GVA during the 12-month period to 30 September
rate subsidy scheme at the end of 2021. Specifically, new 2022. The sector’s GVA output increased by 5% during the same
mortgage facilities recorded a marginal 4% drop during 2022, period, highlighting its continuous resilience and importance
compared to 2021. to the overall economy.
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 9
• The total number of properties transacted during 2022 reached • During 2022, a total of 220 transactions of residential properties
22.500, compared to 20.100 during 2021, indicating a 12% ≥ €1,5mln were observed (36% YoY growth), indicating a partial
increase, even surpassing the pre-pandemic peak 2019 levels recovery, signalling also that this segment remains active.
(17.200) by 31%.
• In terms of sales value, this segment totalled €590mln,
• During 2022, the coastal districts of Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos representing 11% of total transaction value of the sector
experienced double-digit annual increases in terms of volume of during 2022.
transactions compared to 2021 (18%, 23% and 31%, respectively).
On the other hand, the districts of Nicosia and Famagusta
experienced marginal drops of 6% and 1% respectively.
Demand for residential properties within the 5% drop in volume of new building
€100k - €300k range continues to be strong permits issued
• In total, the number of residential properties transacted in this price • The continuous increase in the cost of material prices has
range, reached 7.600 during 2022, representing a 19% YoY growth continued throughout 2021 and 2022, with prices growing by
and a 41% increase compared to pre-pandemic 2019. c.30% in a period of 2 years (2022 increase: 17,2%).
• In transaction value terms, this segment reached c.€1,3bn during • Despite the growing levels of demand, building permits dropped,
2022, making up 25% of the total value of transactions in the year. predominantly due to the increases in construction costs, which
affected the market and particularly the private/single housing
segment. New building permits issued during 10M 2022 dropped
Real Estate by 5% compared to 10M 2021.
Price Evolution
Cyprus economy
update
The Cypriot economy surpassed growth expectations
during the first half of 2022, but the outlook points
towards a deceleration.
Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, As a whole, the Cyprus economy is expected to
the Cypriot economy exhibited strong signs of recovery
during 2021, with GDP exceeding pre-crisis levels.
demonstrate solid growth during 2022, with the European
Commission estimating a real GDP growth of 5,6%,
+6,6%
Specifically, real GDP increased by 6,6% (slightly outperforming the EU average (Forecast: 3,3%), albeit
surpassing the EU average of 5,4%) compared to a -4,4% at a slower rate compared to 2021.
2021
Real GDP %
compression during 2020 (EU average of 2020: -5,7%).
In 2022, the Cyprus Government introduced a set of
According to the European Commission Autumn 2022
report, real GDP surpassed growth expectations during
incentives for companies of foreign interests to establish
headquarters/a base in Cyprus, relocating operations and
+5,6%
the first half of 2022, mainly driven by strong domestic staff to the island. According to the European Commission
demand and supported by a partial rebound in tourism, report, more than 1.000 foreign companies chose to relocate
2022 (F)
Real GDP %
which outperformed expectations. However, high energy their operations to Cyprus during the year, together with a
prices, increasing levels of inflation and the erosion reported number of 9.000 employees, which would roughly
of purchasing power combined with a weakening EU translate to c.25.000 people (employees together with their
economy, contribute towards a slowdown of the economy families) relocating to Cyprus. The positive impacts from this
during the second half of the year. continuous demographic shift are apparent to the observed
levels of demand in the real estate transaction and rental
markets, that is anticipated to trigger widespread direct and European
Commission
Cyprus Vs European Union Real GDP (% change) indirect positive effects to the Cyprus economy as a whole. Forecast
8% 6,5% 6,6%
5,9% 5,7% 5,6%
6% 5,5%
3,4% 3,3%
4% 5,4%
2,1%
1,9% 1,6%
2% 2,8%
2,0% 2,3% 2,0% 2,1% 1,8%
0% 0,4%
(0,7%) (0,1%)
-2%
(1,8%)
-4% (3,4%) (4,4%)
-6%
(6,6%) (5,7%)
-8%
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 (F)
2022 (Forecast)
GDP % (constant prices)
Ireland 7,9%
Portugal 6,6%
Slovenia 6,2%
Greece 6,0%
Croatia 6,0%
Malta 5,7%
Cyprus 5,6%
Austria 4,6%
Netherlands 4,6%
Spain 4,5%
Italy 3,8%
European Union 3,3%
Belgium 2,8%
France 2,6%
Lithuania 2,5%
Finland 2,3%
Latvia 1,9%
Slovakia 1,9%
Germany 1,6%
Luxembourg 1,5%
Estonia (0,1%)
Inflation
Inflation (as measured by the Harmonised Index of Consumer attributed to the restart of the economy, following the lift of the
Prices) has been following an upward trend since 2021 (2,3%) COVID-19 pandemic measures, which led to an increase in demand,
and is expected to climb to 8,0% by the end of 2022, mainly particularly in the services sector.
driven by increasing energy prices (34,7% increase during 10M 2022
compared to 10M 2021) and food prices (7,1% increase during 10M Inflation is expected to remain high over the coming years, as
2022 compared to 10M 2021), due to the war in Ukraine. According indicated by the European Commission, decelerating gradually
to the Central Bank of Cyprus, the rise in inflation is also partially to pre-crisis levels by 2024 (forecasted at 2,5%).
Inflation (%yoy)
Inflation (% yoy) European Commission
Forecast
10% 9,3%
8%
7,0%
8,0%
6%
4% 3,5%
2,5% 3,1% 2,9% 3,0%
4,2%
1,6% 1,8%
2% 1,3% 1,4%
2,9% 2,6%
0,4% 0,7% 2,3% 2,5%
1,8% 0,1% 0,2%
0% 0,7% 0,8%
0,4% 0,5%
(0,3%)
-2% (1,2%) (1,1%)
(1,5%)
-4%
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 (F) 2023 (F) 2024 (F)
Unemployment
The introduction of temporary Government measures to protect 2022 (compared to 6,2% being the EU average), reaching
employment, decelerated the country’s increasing unemployment pre-crisis levels.
rate during 2020 and 2021 (7,6% and 7,5% respectively). These
measures were extended until October 2021 and were later lifted The labour market is expected to continue to improve during
due to the improved economic environment. 2023 onwards, mainly due to the implementation of reforms in
the Recovery and Resilience Plan, approved by the Council of the
According to the European Commission Autumn 2022 report, the European Union in July 2021. In addition, continuation in foreign
labour market recovery is expected to continue, albeit at a slower companies relocating to Cyprus together with their staff, is expected
pace. Employment is expected to marginally increase compared to to positively impact the economy in the medium and long-term.
2021 with the unemployment rate expected to drop to 7,2% during
Cyprus continues to enjoy an “investment grade” rating from Cypriot economy had a robust post-pandemic recovery and
three major credit rating agencies, namely Fitch, S&P and DBRS Government finances have proved resilient, Cyprus’ high
Morningstar. DBRS and S&P upgraded Cyprus to BBB in April 2022 exposure to Russia through its investment and tourism linkages
and September 2022 respectively. At the same time, both agencies poses significant risks.
revised the outlook from positive to stable, with S&P citing that a
“stable” outlook reflects a balanced risk profile, which on one hand In July 2021, Moody’s upgraded Cyprus’ rating to Ba1, just one
considers the adverse effects from the war in Ukraine and on the notch below investment grade. In August 2022, Moody’s changed
other hand, accounts for the economy’s diversified structure and the outlook from stable to positive, highlighting the strong reduction
resilience to external shocks, alongside the expectation that the in Cyprus’ public debt ratio in 2022, the stronger than expected
Government’s fiscal position will continue to improve. economic resilience to the war in Ukraine and the COVID-19
pandemic, coupled with ongoing strengthening of the banking sector,
Fitch maintains Cyprus at a BBB- rating since 2018, with a stable with non-performing exposures (NPEs) continuing to decline.
outlook. The stable outlook reflects Fitch’s view that, while the
Current Credit
Credit Rating Previous Credit Date Rating Date Outlook
Rating Outlook
Agency Rating Changed Changed
(02/2023)
Source: Moody’s Corporation, Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings, DBRS Morningstar
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 16
The latest bond issued by the Republic of Cyprus was on The ECB raised its three key interest rates by 50bps during its July 2022
20 January 2022, when it tapped the markets with a new €1bn, meeting, the first increase since 2011, ending 8 years of negative rates.
10-year euro bond, with a coupon rate of 0,95%. Demand for the said In both its September and October 2022 meetings, the ECB raised its
10-year bond, exceeded €7,8bn, pulling interest rates down from the peak key interest rates by 75bps, bringing borrowing costs to the highest level
1,10%, set by the Ministry of Finance, to 0,994%. since early 2009. Finally, in December, the ECB raised interest rates by
50bps, bringing the deposit facility rate to 2,00%, the refinancing rate to
Economic uncertainty amid the war in Ukraine and the European Central 2,50% and the marginal lending to 2,75%, a level not seen in 14 years.
Bank (ECB) rate hikes announcement are pushing Cyprus bond yields
upwards in the wider context of sovereign bond sell-off in secondary In April 2022, the Cabinet approved the issuance of Cyprus’
capital markets. Cyprus’ 10-year bond yield in the secondary markets first-ever Green Bond, which will be announced in 2023, and it is aiming
rose above 4% in October 2022, with the spread compared with the to yield up to €1bn. The Ministry of Finance is currently working to prepare
German 10-year bond, considered the benchmark, amounting to 196bps. the edition of the bond known as a “EUGB”, pursuing environmentally
sustainable investments and environmentally friendly business activities.
Cyprus
Cyprus Government
Government BondBond Yields
Yields (2019(2019
- 2022)- 2022)
5,0
4,0
3,0
2,0
1,0
0,0
-1,0
Q1 2019 Q2 2019 Q3 2019 Q4 2019 Q1 2020 Q2 2020 Q3 2020 Q4 2020 Q1 2021 Q2 2021 Q3 2021 Q4 2021 Q1 2022 Q2 2022 Q3 2022 Q4 2022
10-Year (issued Sept 2018) 15-Year (issued Feb 2019) 30-Year (issued May 2019) 5.5-Year (issued May 2019) 20-Year (issued Jan 2020)
10-Year (issued Jan 2020) 30-Year (issued April 2020) 7-Year (issued April 2020) 5-Year (issued Feb 2021) 10-Year (issued Jan 2022)
Mid-yield (%)
Bond as at 31 December 2022
Household disposable income increased marginally by 1,0% during affect the level of household disposable income. On the other hand,
2021 compared to 2020, attributed to continuing Government fiscal according to the European Commission report (Autumn 2022),
support measures. households’ income will be supported by Government measures
to cushion the impact of high energy prices and the indexation of
Although data on real disposable income has not been made wages and salaries, to be applied in January 2023.
available for 2022, household disposable income is expected to
remain at the same or lower levels compared to 2021, due to the At the same time, interest rates on housing loans demonstrated
phasing out of the COVID-19 related support measures granted to a marginal increase during 2022, reaching 2,28% (23 bps increase
corporations and employees. Furthermore, according to the Central compared to 2021). The inflationary pressures, geopolitical
Bank of Cyprus, the negative effects of the war in Ukraine on uncertainty and the energy crisis are expected to drive interest rates
spending as well as the increase in prices are expected to negatively upwards at a faster rate.
Household disposableincome
Household disposable income & mortgage
& mortgage interest
interest ratesrates
-ve outlook
€19,3
€18,9 3,36% 3,16%
2,87%
€18,4
2,39%
2,14% 2,28%
€17,6 2,05%
€17,2
€16,9 €16,9
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Lending market
A significant increase in new mortgage loan facilities was recorded On balance, mortgage loan facilities remained strong during 2022
during 2021 (43% increase compared to 2020), mainly fuelled by (€1.285mln), despite the expiration of the Government interest rate
the Government interest subsidy scheme, as well as the better than subsidy scheme at the end of 2021. Specifically, new mortgage facilities
anticipated recovery of economic activity from Q2 2021 onwards. The recorded a marginal (4%) drop during 2022, compared to 2021 and
growth in new mortgage lending was sustained during the first half of recorded a 37% increase compared to 2020.
2022 (€752mln / 14% YoY growth), but decelerated during the second
half (€534mln / 22% YoY drop), amidst the rising costs of construction
and looming uncertainty.
€3.500
€1.342mln
€1.285mln
€940mln
€3.000 €685,1 €533,6
€541,7
€1.500
€1.000
€500
€0
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
The Real Estate & Construction sector traditionally constitutes At the same time, the Tourism, trade & transport sector outperformed
one of the key pillars of the Cyprus economy. The Real Estate and recovered a significant part of the ground lost since the outbreak
& Construction sector contributed 15% to the country’s GVA of the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing by 24% during the 12-month
during the 12-month period to 30 September 2022. period to 30 September 2022. The latest European Commission
report for Cyprus (Autumn 2022) states, however, that the tourism
The sector’s GVA output increased by 5% during the 12-month sector, in the short term, is expected to take a hit due to the
period to 30 September 2022, highlighting its continuous resilience worsening of the external environment and the erosion of disposable
and importance to the overall economy. income, as well as high air fares.
Gross Value Added contribution by sector % Growth in GVA of key sectors for the 12-month period
(12-month period to 30 September 2022) (current prices) to 30 September 2022 (current prices)
15%
8%
15%
15% 10%
24% Real estate & 5%
24% 3%
construction 5%
21%
21%
0%
Tourism, trade & Financial, Real estate & Public admin,
Other sectors transport professional & construction defence,
administrative education &
services healthcare
Transaction volumes/
Investment activity levels
Cyprus Real Estate sector at a glance
The Cyprus real estate market is proving particularly According to the latest European Commission report
resilient, with transaction activity levels in 2022, exceeding
expectations, reaching a record-high of €5,2bn in value,
(Autumn 2022), the sharp climb in transactions during
2022 is a reflection of the growing appetite from companies
+27%
recording an annual increase of 27%. In transaction volume of foreign interests to relocate their operations and staff 2022
terms, the total number of properties transacted during 2022 on the island, coupled with a resilient domestic YoY growth
reached 22.500, compared to 20.100 during 2021, indicating segment. Since the beginning of the year, more than in €
a 12% increase, even surpassing the pre-pandemic peak 1.000 foreign companies chose to relocate their operations
2019 levels (17.200) by 31%. to Cyprus during the year, together with a reported number
of 9.000 employees, which would roughly translate to
+12%
c.25.000 people (employees together with their families) 2022
relocating to Cyprus. YoY growth
in #
Volume
Volume and
and Value
Value of properties
of properties transacted
transacted
7,0 25.000
€bn value of properties transacted
22.500
6,0 20.100
# properties transacted
20.000
17.200
5,0 15.500 15.800 2022 2022 2022
14.500 €5,2bn
15.000 % change Vs Vs Vs
4,0 12.000 €4,4bn
€4,5bn €4,2bn €4,1bn 2021 2020 2019
3,0 10.000 # properties 12% 55% 31%
8.100 €3,4bn €3,0bn
5.900 7.100
2,0 € transaction value 27% 73% 18%
€1,7bn €1,9bn 5.000
1,0
€1,1bn
0,0 -
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Source: The transaction activity analysis was based on data from the Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), relating to contracts of sale and sale
transfers, extracted on 16/01/2023. Any differences with previous publications relate to amended Land Registry records and discrepancies between
the date of agreement and respective filing date.
Note: The above figures do not include: (i) Debt for Asset Swap transactions (DFAS), (ii) transactions of real estate through the sale of company
shares or fund units (Share Deals) and (iii) any other transactions not filed or adequately recorded at the DLS.
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 22
# properties
5.000 4.462
During 2022, the coastal districts of Limassol, 4.025 4.243 4.031
Larnaca and Paphos experienced double-digit 4.000 3.437
3.082
2.701
increases in terms of volume of transactions 3.000 2.286
compared to 2021 (18%, 23% and 31% 2.000 1.241 1.230
989
respectively). On the contrary, the districts of 1.000
Nicosia and Famagusta experienced marginal -
drops of 6% and 1% respectively. Nicosia Limassol Larnaca Famagusta Paphos
18%
During 2022, Limassol made up the majority 18%18%
27%
18%
18%18% 19%
19%19%
27%27%
of the volume of transactions (31%), followed
5%5% 5%
by Nicosia (27%), which was the driver of 5%
5% 5%
transaction volume during 2021. ## # €€ €
13%
13%13%
19%
19%19%
In transaction value terms, Limassol continues
31%
31%31% 45%
45%45%
to be the front-runner, making up 45% of the
total value of transactions during 2022. Nicosia
ranked second, with 19% of total transaction Nicosia
Nicosia
Nicosia Limassol
LimassolLarnaca
Limassol Larnaca
LarnacaFamagusta
Famagusta
FamagustaPaphos
Paphos
Paphos
value, followed by Paphos (18%).
Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 23
Change in volume of transactions (2022 Vs 2021) Change in value of transactions (2022 Vs 2021)
% of % of
43% 39,5% 33% (0,5%) (15%) 50% 33,2% 15% 2% (0,2%)
growth growth
2021 Limassol Paphos Larnaca Famagusta Nicosia 2022 2021 Limassol Paphos Larnaca Nicosia Famagusta 2022
Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis
Transactions in Limassol and Paphos made up >80% of the overall growth in the volume and value of transactions observed during 2022.
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 24
Apartments Houses
Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis
Apartments sold per price bucket Houses sold per price bucket
137 124
>1mln 140 >1mln 108
206 162
248 240
500k-1mln 227 500k-1mln 312
407 408
442 842
250k-500k 692 250k-500k 1.216
1.374 1.518
4.040 1.580
0-250k 5.424 0-250k 1.951
6.549 2.080
- 1.000 2.000 3.000 4.000 5.000 6.000 7.000 - 500 1.000 1.500 2.000 2.500
Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis
Note: The number of transactions included in the price bucket chart differ from Note: The number of transactions included in the price bucket chart differ from
the total transactions presented in the table above, as the chart includes only the total transactions presented in the table above, as the chart includes only
single unit transactions with 100% share (to avoid statistical discrepancies). single unit transactions with 100% share (to avoid statistical discrepancies).
Fields Plots
Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 26
1%
1% 2% 1%
9% 15%
9% 15% 2% 2%
3%
5% 3%
5%
40%
€ #
#
Transaction value Transaction volume
by planning zone (2022) 53% by planning zone (2022)
67%
67%
Agricultural Residential Commercial & Special Zones Industrial Tourist Other / Non-identified
Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 27
2022 Growth
per property type
Change in volume of transactions (2022 Vs 2021) Change in value of transactions (2022 Vs 2021)
% of % of
82% 23% 3% 1% (9%) 58% 27% 11% 9% (5%)
growth growth
20.114 €616
2021 Apartments Houses Commercial Other Land 2022 2021 Apartments Houses Other Land Commercial 2022
Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS), PwC Analysis
Transactions of apartments made up 82% of the growth in the volume of transactions and 58% in value terms, making apartments
a dominant contributor of growth recorded in 2022.
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 29
Sale contracts
statistics
No. of contracts of sale filed at the DLS per district (2010 - 2022)
No. of contracts of sale filed at the DLS per district (2010 - 2022)
16.000
Growth of 3,56x
14.000 13.409
12.000 21%
10.366 10.347
10.000 9.242 5%
8.598 8.734 18%
26% 7.968 18%
8.000 24% 7%
19% 7.018 7.063 25% 6% 20%
6.269 7%
16%
10% 19% 15%
6.000 25% 7% 7%
16% 10% 24% 4.527 4.952 15%
6% 15% 16% 35%
14% 9% 3.767 25% 19% 32%
4.000 27% 34%
26% 17% 6%
31% 7% 36% 37% 31%
30% 22%
26% 6% 18% 35%
2.000 16%
29% 31% 32% 27% 21%
28% 19% 26%
27% 24% 17% 17%
19% 17% 15% 15%
-
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Nicosia Limassol Larnaca Famagusta Paphos
+30%
Source: Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS)
2022
The sizeable increase in transaction activity observed during the year, is also evident by the Increase
number of sale contracts recorded at the DLS during 2022, which reached 13.409, representing in no. of sale
a 30% YoY uplift. It is noted that the level of sale contracts recorded during 2022 materially contracts
surpassed pre-pandemic levels (2019: 10.366). filed at the
DLS (2022
Vs 2021)
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 30
13.409
13.409
3.500 3.500 3.339 3.339
10.366
10.347
10.366
10.347
2.480 2.480 2.402 2.402
2.500 2.500
1.9982.054 1.9982.054
7.968
1.818
7.968
2.000 2.000 1.818
1.568 1.674 1.568 1.674 1.554 1.554
1.500 1.500 1.296 1.296
1.000 1.000 653 584 692 693 653 584 692 693
500 500
- -
Nicosia Limassol
Nicosia Larnaca
Limassol Famagusta
Larnaca Paphos
Famagusta Paphos Total
Total Total
Foreign transaction
activity
During 2022, a total of 5.928 properties across Cyprus were No. of properties acquired by foreigners based on sale
acquired by foreigners (in terms of sale contracts filed at the DLS) contracts filed at the DLS (2019 - 2022)
compared to 3.691 properties during 2021, representing a 61%
increase. Foreign activity patterns appear correlated with the 7.000
observed influx of foreign companies relocating their operations 5.928
and staff on the island. 6.000
All Cyprus districts recorded YoY increases during 2022, in terms 5.000 +61%
4.481
of the number of properties acquired by foreigners (based on sale
contracts filed at the DLS), with Paphos and Limassol experiencing 4.000 3.691
the most notable increases (79% and 78% respectively), followed (33%)
2.985 +24%
by Larnaca (55%). Sale contracts filed by foreigners in all districts, 3.000
except for Famagusta (drop of 5%), exceeded pre-pandemic (2019)
levels, with Limassol and Larnaca notably recording 68% and 60% 2.000
increases, respectively.
1.000
-
2019 2020 2021 2022
2.500
2.006 2.044
2.000 1.887
1.500
1.196 1.178 1.142
1.127 1.069
1.000 864
738 761
522
500 305 347 364 355 302 314 336
228
-
Nicosia Limassol Larnaca Famagusta Paphos
700
643 645
623
600 556
508 515 506 522
500 464 473 461
429 420 435
413 369
400 386
400 357 368 370 366 364 361
325 337 344 339 326
319 314
269 285
300 226 262 260 248
247 243 247 252
192 212 196 197 199
200 168
124
100
-
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
% of
40% 39% 19% 1% 1%
growth
417 22 17 5.928
879
# of propeties transacted
902
3.691
Transactions in Limassol and Paphos make up c.80% of the overall growth in the volume of properties transacted
by foreigners observed during 2022.
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 35
High-end residential
property segment (≥ €1,5mln)
The termination of the CIP programme (effective 1 November 2020), In terms of sales value, the high-end residential property sector
led to a shrinking of activity levels in the high-end residential property (≥ €1,5mln) totalled €590mln during 2022, corresponding to a
segment (≥ €1,5mln). During 2022, a total of 220 transactions of YoY increase of 34% and a 48% increase compared to 2020.
residential properties ≥ €1,5mln were observed, representing a 36%
YoY growth, indicating a partial recovery signalling that this segment Overall, the high-end residential property sector (≥ €1,5mln)
remains active. represented 11% of total transaction value of the sector during 2022.
700
€720mln
250
# properties transacted
220
600 215
13% 5%
4%
2%
5% 2021
3%
76%
3%
17%
3%
1%
2022
76%
76%
# properties transacted
5.400 6.000
1.000 €1.110mln
4.600 4.600 5.000
800 €910mln
3.600 €790mln 4.000
€770mln
600 2.800
€600mln 3.000
400 1.800 1.900
1.500 €470mln
2.000
€300mln €330mln
200 €250mln 1.000
- -
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
19%
15%
30%19%
30%
33%
6% 5%
5%
2021 2022
18%
21% 21%
25%
28% 25%
Real estate
price evolution
Residential Property Prices
The behaviour of residential property prices across Cyprus During Q3 2022 (latest available information), residential property
is captured by the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) index, amongst index prices maintained their increasing trend, marking a 6%
other publicly available indices. YoY increase, compared to Q3 2021, and a 5% increase compared
to Q4 2021. The increase in index prices is partially attributed
During 2021, residential property index prices recorded a 3% growth to domestic housing demand and partially driven by increases
compared to 2020, mainly driven by demand from local buyers in construction costs, as well as the higher levels of demand
(particularly for apartments), aided from the subsidisation of interest from foreign companies relocating to Cyprus (mainly Q1-Q3
rates on housing loans (the Government support schemes and the 2022 affected).
second moratorium for deferral of loan instalments).
100
Period of Decline / Correction Price Period of
95 of Prices Stabilisation Growth QoQ % change (Q1 2021 - Q3 2022)
90 2,2%
85 1,6%
80
0,6% 1,3% 1,1%
75 0,5%
0,3%
70
65 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3
2021 2021 2021 2021 2022 2022 2022
60
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Q3 2022
Annual 12 months
price 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 ending Q3 2022
change (YoY%)
4% 8%
8% Nicos 3% Famagusta
ia Nicosia
The image part with relationship ID rId7 was not found in the file.
8% Larnaca
Paphos
Limassol
Construction
activity
According to the latest European Commission report (Autumn New building permits issued during the period January - October
2022), the construction sector is continuously being hit by the supply 2022 (10M 2022) stood at 6.347 representing a 5% YoY drop and
disruptions and continuous price hikes in construction materials. a 12% increase compared to the respective period in 2020 (10M
2020). In value terms, the new permits issued remain constant
Despite the growing levels of demand, building permits dropped, compared to 10M 2021 and appear reduced by 8% when compared
predominantly due to increases in construction costs, which affected to 10M 2020.
the market and particularly the private/single housing segment.
10.000 4.000
8.777
(5%) 12%
8.000 2.243 3.000
2.059 2.059
6.000
2.000
4.000 Decrease in # Increase in #
5.689 6.671 6.347 1.000
- (8%)
2.000
- -
10M 2020 10M 2021 10M 2022
No change in € Decrease in €
Number of permits Value of permits (€mln)
The largest concentration of new permits for developments, During 10M 2022, Larnaca and Paphos witnessed YoY decreases
in terms of licensed building surface (m²) during 10M 2022, of 23% and 16% respectively, largely due to the rapid expansion
relates to Nicosia (37%), followed by Limassol (31%). in activity observed in the previous year, which now appears to
stabilise. On the other hand, Nicosia and Limassol recorded a
10M 2021 further 4% growth on a YoY basis.
Surface area licensed (m²) per district (10M 2020 - 10M 2022)
14%
800.000
6% 33% 700.000
Surface area
Surface area
670.028
644.231
600.000
(m2)licensed
(m²) licensedby
624.521
615.973
bydistrict
district
569.320
18%
550.054
500.000
400.000
29%
348.315
300.000
277.154
266.771
243.247
200.000
231.853
107.042
200.193
10M 2022
184.352
74.826
100.000
-
Nicosia Limassol Larnaca Famagusta Paphos
13%
10M 2020 10M 2021 10M 2022
4% 13%
4% 37%
Source: Cystat, PwC Analysis
Surface area
Surface area 37%
15% (m²)
(m2)licensed
licensedby
15% bydistrict
district
31%
31%
Overall, residential developments comprised the majority of licensed % change in surface area (m²) licensed per property type
% change in surface area (m²) licensed per property type
surface area during 10M 2022, making up 83% of new developments (10M 2022 Vs 10M 2021)
(10M 2022 Vs 10M 2021)
licensed.
150%
Notably, surface area (m²) licensed for office developments more 125%
123%
than doubled during 10M 2022, compared to the equivalent period in 100%
2021, largely due to the observed deceleration in office developments 75%
during 2021, in the wake of growing uncertainty regarding the future
50%
of office space in the COVID-19 pandemic era and accelerated
25%
working from home patterns. It appears that during 2022, activity that
may have been held back in prior years, has unfolded in the midst of 0%
(8%) (21%) (1%) (30%)
a growing appetite for office space by foreign companies relocating to -25%
Cyprus, that has caused demand/supply imbalances. -50%
Residential Hotel and Leisure Warehouses Retail Offices
On the other hand, all remaining non-residential property sectors
experienced drops in terms of surface area (m²) licensed during
10M 2022, with Retail and Hotel and Leisure-related uses continuing Source: Cystat, PwC Analysis
to decline for a second consecutive year (drop of 30% and 21%
respectively compared to 10M 2021).
Other*
26% 22%
Offices 13%
28%
5%
85% Surface area
15%
Surface area 17% Retail 3%
(m²) licensed 83% (m²) licensed 27%
25%
Warehouses
29%
22%
Residential Non-Residential
Hotel & Leisure
The continuous hike in the cost of material prices has continued annual increase of 23,7% during 2022, as well as supply disruptions,
throughout 2021 and 2022, with prices growing by 30% in a period of stemming from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak and
2 years (2022 increase: 17,2%). This is mainly driven by price increases more recently the war in Ukraine.
in commodities and more distinctly metallic products which recorded an
+30%
17%
% change in construction price material index (2010 - 2022)
11%
4%
3%
2%
1% 1% 1%
0,3%
(0,4%) (0,4%)
(2%)
(2%)
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Minerals 11,8%
Products of wood, insulation materials, chemicals and plastics 17,1%
Mineral products 11,7%
Metallic products 23,7%
Electromechanical products 13,0%
Weighted 17,2%
How PwC
can help
What we bring
to our clients
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advisory services & market analysis advisory
PwC
in Cyprus
In a world that is constantly evolving, our aim at PwC Cyprus is to In a dynamic and challenging business environment, where
find the right solutions to complex problems, creating value for our competition is more intense than ever, we are here to support you
clients, stakeholders and society. We embrace the future with a at every step of your journey. Ready to provide you with a broad
focus on quality and by building strong relationships based on trust. range of services that meet even your most complex needs.
In times of great challenge, trust is more important than ever.
Funds
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 51
PwC offices
in Cyprus
Nicosia
Limassol
Paphos
2 Falirou Street,
CY-8035, Paphos
P O Box 60479, CY-8103 Paphos, Cyprus
Tel: +357 - 26 555 000
Cyprus Real Estate Market I 52
Your contacts
for Real Estate matters
Constantinos Constantinou
Partner
Advisory, Real Estate Industry Leader
T: +357 - 22 555 700
constantinos.constantinou@pwc.com
Constantinos Savvides
Director
In charge of Real Estate Advisory
T: +357 - 22 555 503
constantinos.savvides@pwc.com
Ioanna Charalambous
Senior Manager
Real Estate Advisory
T: +357 - 22 555 499
ioanna.charalambous@pwc.com
The content is for general information purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional advisors.
© 2023 PricewaterhouseCoopers Ltd. All rights reserved. PwC refers to the Cyprus member firm, and may sometimes refer to the PwC
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