No.202
Q.: Dear Mr Loizou,
I have read again with interest the on going questions about registering committees, the advice given to all who ask is greatly appreciated I am sure, it is given in laymen's terms so we can all understand.

I hope my question may be answered in the say eloquent way.

I read with interest the letters of Mr Oratis & Mr Horner printed in your column,here where I live, an agreement has been given to all the owners to read and sign, they were handed out at our last AGM, the two parties (mother & son) we wish to take legal action against for non payments of their common use,Fixed Fund, and a bill we all paid for the upgrading of the lift, took the agreement and tore it up, saying we are signing nothing.

My Question is, can we go to the land registry with two owners not signing?.

Your advice would be gratefully appreciated.

(M.W.)

A.: In order to take legal action, you must have the authority. In order to do this, the apartments must have titles and the committee so registered with the Lands Office – If the majority vote decides on one direction, you can take this decision through the courts.
Regards,
A.P. Loizou


3/29407-td
23.11.09

No.203
Q.: We have two adjoining plots of land with no access. A compulsory purchase order has been executed, but notwithstanding that fact that they have taken around 1.000 sq.mts. out of the one plot (having 6.000 sq.mts. in extent) no compensation is offered, because, I am told, both plots have now access and that the value now after the acquisition is more than it was before without access.
Shall I fight this in court or shall I settle? I am really not a wealthy woman and every cent counts for me. Will you charge me for this advice Mr Loizou?
Maria Thrassou

A.: It appears that the acquiring authority is right (without knowing the details) since both of your plots have benefited from the acquisition. Try to get a better compensation as much as you can by negotiating, but I suggest you do not embark into the expense.
Xmas is coming Maria and please accept my reply as a Xmas gift – All the best.
Regards,
A.P. Loizou

No.204
Q.: We have a penthouse which we acquired recently and we refurbished practically everything, but then the water pressure has reduced to the extent that having a shower is not fun any more. Other than blocked pipes etc is there any other reason for this Mr Loizou?
Your column is very much appreciated in this home, but we have noted that recently you do not “crack jokes” in your replies!!
George & Liz Lazof

A.: Another reason for the reduced water pressure could be that you have used water pressure bathroom fittings. The new ones must have a pressure system in order to work properly. Ask the supplier if these fittings are of the pressure type, before you rush to buy a pressure water system (cost around €800). Regarding the jokes, wait for it, Xmas is coming and we will have to get into the mood first. Thank you for your loyal support however.
Regards,
A.P. Loizou

No.205
Q.: We have lived together as a couple for many years, but, alas, we decided to go on our separate ways. We did got married and I wonder if one dies will the other spouse inheritance rights be lost?
(name withheld)

A.: This is not my field, but recent court decisions have indicated that unmarried couples will be treated in the same way as married ones in terms of property ownership. It will depend on the circumstances, e.g. how long you are together, if you have children together etc etc. I do suggest you seek the advice of a legal person, so you get a correct answer. Bear in mind that unless you are permanent resident, the laws of the country of origin apply.
Regards,
A.P. Loizou
No.206
Q.: Do you think it is correct to exchange real estate investments for Cypriot permanent residences and even worse Cyprus/E.U. nationality?
Doris Yerasa

A.: It needs a long answer Doris, but on the whole, bearing in mind the present state of the economy, I will say yes. It is not that thousands of foreign people will exploit this, but if we have say 100 people applying (and each one contributes €15 mil.) you appreciate the economic benefits. This situation may be revised later, when hopefully the economy is better.
Regards,
A.P. Loizou

No.207
Q.: Any news on the title issue laws?
Tina Turner

A.: Surely you are not THE Tina! I am invited to attend a meeting next week at the Ministry of the Interior. I will let you know the moment I have some news. Having said that, I am aware that there is a lot of goings on behind the scenes, in order to get to the bottom of this.
Regards,
A.P. Loizou

No.208
Q.: Dear Mr Loizou, we are leaving Cyprus for Stockholm in order to celebrate Xmas with our children. We cannot leave without saying goodbye and wishing you a Merry Xmas. Thank you for the lovely work you do for this island, which we have adopted as our own.
Kostantine Hans

A.: I am touched by your friendship. All the best and I reciprocate with the wish of good health and happiness for yourself and your family.
Regards,
A.P. Loizou

No.209
Q.: Please find enclosed a CD by Eros Ramazzotti whom I understand is one of your favourite singers. This is a token for the help you have offered to my family.
Dino Gratsiani

A.: Many thanks Dino – but I am very curious how you come to know about it. Sometimes when some “inappropriate” thoughts pass through my mind, “I live with the fear” of people coming to know about it (joke). Indeed Eros is one of my more recent favourite singers. Thank you again.
Regards,
A.P. Loizou


3/29409-td
23.11.09

No.210
Q.: I have read your article on the right to acquire an access and the replies you give to a number of people, indicating the complications involved to acquire access in order to build a house. With due respect Mr Loizou, why don’t you write a comprehensive book on the Cyprus real estate, so that in particular, us foreign people will know what we are getting involved with, as opposed to the misinformation that we get from all sorts of people, including local solicitors, estate agents and others.
Lory Gist

A.: A good idea Lory, but you do appreciate the work involved. I will keep your suggestion in mind when I get retired!! Many thanks.
A.P. Loizou


3/29406-td
24.11.09

No.211
Q.: Dear Mr Loizou

You were kind enough to answer my mother's question regarding interest on client monies in the lawyer's account (please see below). We need your assistance once again.

Can you please tell me who (and where) we contact to raise a complaint. I understand that there is a cost associated with this and would be grateful if you could advise.

All assistance greatly appreciated.

With kind regards
A Schoemaker


A.: You could report the solicitor to the disciplinary board of the lawyers association as a start. You then decide pending on the result what course of action to take. The report to the Board will not cost (I expect) anything.
Regards,
A.P. Loizou



3/29417-td
25.11.09

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