The Department of Lands and Surveys has recently released detailed data on property transactions across Cyprus for August 2026. This insightful breakdown reveals not only who is investing in Cypriot real estate but also highlights regional dynamics shaping the market.
Cypriot nationals were responsible for the majority of property purchases last month, representing 53% of all sale contracts lodged at Land Registries, totaling 659 transactions.
Property acquisitions by locals saw a mild 2% increase compared to August 2025, but this rise masks contrasting movements in various districts. While sales in Famagusta dropped by 19%, Limassol and Paphos saw respective declines of 16% and 3%. In contrast, Larnaca and Nicosia experienced strong growth, with sales up 47% and 7% respectively.
Property contracts signed by EU nationals rose by a notable 27% year-over-year in August. All districts, except Nicosia (which fell 6%), enjoyed increased activity. Limassol rebounded robustly, posting an 89% increase after a sharp drop the previous month. Paphos, Famagusta, and Larnaca also saw respectable gains of 11%, 10%, and 6% respectively.
Non-EU buyers accounted for 31% of sales last month, with transactions rising 19% compared to August 2025. Paphos led this segment with a remarkable 40% uptick. Nicosia, Larnaca, and Famagusta followed with increases of 33%, 31%, and 7% respectively, although Limassol was the sole district with a slight 6% decline.
From January through August 2026, domestic property purchases grew consistently across the island, with Limassol taking the front spot at a 19% increase. Famagusta, Nicosia, and Larnaca also posted steady gains, while Paphos recorded a modest 3% rise.
Demand from EU buyers remains on an upward trajectory, expanding 23% year-to-date. Paphos saw the strongest growth (42%), with Larnaca (33%) and Limassol (9%) also showing significant momentum. Famagusta was the only district with a small dip of 2%.
The non-EU market continues to outpace EU buyer activity, nearly doubling sales volumes year-to-date with a 19% overall increase. Each district enjoyed growth: Paphos, Larnaca, and Famagusta each up by 21%, Limassol 16%, and Nicosia 12%.
Foreign buyers (EU and non-EU) accounted for almost half (47%) of all property sales in the first eight months of 2026. Paphos stands out, with overseas investors purchasing more than twice the amount of properties compared to Cypriot buyers (1,871 vs. 783). Larnaca also attracts significant interest from non-EU nationals, highlighting the evolving patterns of international demand around Cyprus.
While the data illustrates the health of Cyprus’ real estate market, it also points to shifting buyer priorities and regional preferences. Those interested in finding budget-friendly options might explore our listings of cheap apartments in Cyprus or curated affordable houses and villas. For investors eyeing a potential bargain, the growing selection of auction properties is also worth monitoring.
Understanding these trends will equip buyers, sellers, and investors with the knowledge needed to navigate Cyprus’ real estate landscape effectively.
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