In the business of real estate brokerage, it is often that a Realtor exclusively engaged in real estate sales includes the promotion of this very fact in much of his/her marketing efforts. Coupled with this will often be some sort of acclamation of awards, be it the "Chairman, President, Gold Member Club" or the like.

There are times in a celebrities life that the glitz and the glamour offer less and less comfort. It is during these times that the celebrities return to their roots and try to make life better for those that are less fortunate than themselves. Celebrity actor, Ed Norton, has done just that with a company his grandfather started.

When asked about the 2008 market outlook, expert opinions vary. Trying to predict the housing market has always been tricky and most economists tend to err on the side of conservatism. Having said that, here's what is forecast for the property market during 2008.

The Cyprus Property market is one of the fastest growing markets within Europe. Purchasers are attracted by the potential growth in terms of returns on investment of property in Cyprus compared to other countries in Europe and the UK. The climate (340 days of sunshine a year), along with easy access to the UK, Europe and other destinations is also a significant plus factor when considering the purchase of property to buy in Cyprus.

Ask, before buying, who and why has purchased the shops (if any) and ascertain whether any restrictions have been put to their use. You may find, for example, that the shops below will be used as a kebab house or as a bar (causing you a lot of hardship). If you have to buy a flat in a block of flats with shops below, avoid buying the flat over the shops. The further away (the higher up) the better.

The Town Planning Act. This law (expected to be fully enforced very soon) regulates development and it will supersede the liberal town planning zoning which exists at present. It requires the preparation of local plans for development and prior to any acquisition/development of property, the inspection of these plans is a must. Any development in the future will require a Planning Permission as well as a Building Permit.

Cyprus is an independent and sovereign republic with the elected president (5 year election cycle) as head of state. The legislation power lies with the elected House of Representatives and appointed council of ministers. The legal system is based on the British/European system with independent power exercised by judiciary. Cyprus is a member of the UN, the British Commonwealth, the non-aligned movement, World Bank and IMF, and shortly to be a full member.

Self-employed persons must possess academic or professional qualifications, which are in demand in Cyprus and do not crate competition to the local population. People of Cypriot origin or the foreign wives of Cypriot citizens are not regarded as foreigners. Residence permits are issued to the following providing that certain criteria are met.

As stated previously, non Cypriots must obtain permission from the council of Ministers before purchasing property. For individuals, this will be granted, as a rule, bone fide cases where individuals wish to acquire flat, a house or piece of land for the erection of a house intended for residency, or regular use as a holiday home. Individuals cannot obtain permission for more than one property. In the case of acquiring land with a view to building, the area allowed will usually be approximately two thirds of one acre.

Action to be taken and points to bear in mind when buying your own plot to build your own house.Seek a suitable plot. Visit the area that you are interested in and ask the local residents directly, or in case of a village, the village muchtar, if there is land for sale. Seek the assistance of a registered estate agent who may be in a position to offer to you alternatives but bear in mind always that most local sellers do not use the services of estate agents.