Sue Michaels and her husband had always dreamed of owning an overseas home where she could really appreciate the sun without the humidity of the UK. After three visits to Cyprus and months of research, they finally found the perfect spot โ a light and airy home tucked in a peaceful corner of Paphos, just five minutes from the hustle and bustle.
โIt was the first house we saw and it just felt right,โ Sue says. โIt had everything , was part-furnished, in great condition, with two pools and a gym on-site. You could move straight in.โ
Cyprus has become an increasingly popular destination for British buyers, thanks to its sunny climate, affordable property, and welcoming expat communities. If you’re still considering whether Cyprus is the right fit for you, our guide on why to buy property in Cyprus explores the lifestyle benefits, visa options, and investment potential. For Sue and her husband, the combination of peaceful surroundings and easy access to amenities made Paphos a clear winner. Learn more about buying property in Paphos in 2025 to see if it aligns with your vision for overseas living.
The Michaels’s home sits on a quiet complex and includes a rooftop terrace for sunbathing, a balcony off the main bedroom and enough space to welcome friends and family.
โIโve already claimed the roof terrace as my reading spot,โ she laughs.
If you’re ready to get started, take a look at property on sale in Paphos. Or read on if you want to learn more about the Michaels’ dream home.
A smooth process from the start
The purchase process has been simple, minus one hitch at the land registry.
โThereโs a backlog,โ Sue says, โbut thatโs Cyprus for you. Luckily, weโre in no rush – weโll go over once the heat dies down.โ
They used Cyprus Emerald Property Consultants for the viewing, and worked with Polycarpos Philippou Solicitors, two Your Overseas Home-recommended partners.
โThey were amazing,โ Sue says. โAnita and Ioannis (Polycarpos) were on WhatsApp constantly โ nothing was too much trouble. Itโs not like solicitors here in the UK, all stuffy and formal. They made us feel relaxed and supported.โ
Choosing the right solicitor is one of the most important parts of buying abroad. While Sue had a smooth experience with Polycarpos Philippou Solicitors, not everyone knows what to look for in legal support. Our article on finding a Cypriot property lawyer breaks down what to expect and how to choose a solicitor you can trust. Likewise, a reliable estate agent is essential โ especially when navigating a foreign market. Get practical advice from our guide to finding an estate agent in Cyprus to help make your search efficient and stress-free.
If you know what specialists you need already, then take a look at our trusted Cyprus property experts and book a meeting to kickstart your journey.ย
Currency transfers made easy
Sue recalled that her husband handled the transfers through Smart Currency Exchange, using a Forward Contract to lock in the rate for their deposit.ย โHe sorted all that,โ she says. โWeโve never bought abroad before, so having support made such a difference.โ
On choosing Cyprus
Sue had visited both Larnaca and Paphos but felt more drawn to the west coast. โPaphos just had a better feel,โ she says. โThe people, the pace, the viewsโฆ it all added up.โ Though the Michaels settled on Paphos, you may want to explore what buying property in Larnaca could offer.
The Michaels purchased a property in a suburb called Anarita, loved for its peaceful setting and short drive to shops, beaches and restaurants.
โItโs beautifully quiet, but close to everything. The best of both worlds.โ See for yourself what’s on offer in the area, by looking at homes for sale in Anarita, Paphos.ย
Sueโs tips for buyers
Sueโs advice to other buyers is simple: be clear on what you want from the outset. โDonโt settle for an apartment if you want a house,โ she says. โThere wasnโt much difference in price.โ By exploring a range of options, they found a spacious property that suited their lifestyle without exceeding their budget. Make sure you investigate the types of property in Cyprus to see what’s right for you โ after all, one of our local writers sings the praises of apartments.
She also recommends making full use of the resources available. โWe printed loads from Your Overseas Home and got so much advice.โ If you’re just starting out, download your copy of our free Cyprus Buying Guide, it’s a great place to begin your research.
Another key to success? Having the right team on your side. โOur solicitor and estate agent were brilliant โ weโd recommend them in a heartbeat.โ Choosing trusted professionals can make the process far less stressful. Finally, Sue advises buyers to plan their move with the climate in mind: โAvoid the heat. September and October are perfect for moving in.โ
Timing your property search and move-in date can significantly impact both your experience and costs. To make the most of your budget, browse our money-saving tips for buying in Cyprus. Youโll find advice on avoiding hidden fees, securing competitive exchange rates, and understanding legal costs. If you’re nearing the offer stage, don’t miss our step-by-step overview on making an offer on property in Cyprus โ it covers the nuances of negotiation and deposit payment that first-time buyers need to know.
No regrets
Sue and her husband plan to spend extended holidays in Cyprus, with a view to possibly living there full-time one day.
โI canโt wait to be sitting on that terrace with a book in one hand and a glass of something cold in the other,โ she says. โIt already feels like home.โ
If youโre inspired by Sueโs story and ready to begin your own journey, weโre here to help. Whether you’re still deciding where to settle or are keen to understand every step of the buying process, start with our expert guides. Explore the top locations across the island in our 2025 region-by-region guide to where to buy property in Cyprus, from buzzing cities to peaceful coastal villages like Anarita. And when you’re ready to dive into the practicalities, our complete guide on how to buy property in Cyprus in 2025 walks you through each stage โ from setting your budget to collecting the keys.
Ready to start the journey to owning your dream home in Cyprus? We’re here to help! Book a call with our property consultants to explore the next steps.
