ITV 'Homes from Hell' NC

JSutherland


Joined: 19/07/2010
Posts: 23

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 19:38

The television program on UK's ITV called "Homes from Hell" is planning a program dedicated in part to North Cyprus and the property buying situation.



In specific they are looking for people in N Cyprus who have been a victim of the property situation in NC and have lost either their property or a lot of money, either through fraud, esdeger, legal disputes or generaly bad handling of the transaction process. I assum you will need to provide proof.



They have been on contact with me with regards to my experiences in NC and have asked for an interview.



If anyone has anything to talk about that they think the program would be interested to hear, now is your chance. If its of interest I would be happy to foward the details directly to the program producers.



Please do this ASAP by email to me as I intend to converse with ITV very shortly. Thursday AM 7th October at latest.



Its up to YOU. Nows your chance!



JS

zerochlor


Joined: 03/04/2009
Posts: 4024

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 19:39

speak to these people



http://www.cyprus44.com/forums/44224.asp

newlad



Joined: 02/03/2008
Posts: 7819

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 19:39

Shouldnt be a shortage of takers there,

Paul.

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 19:59

They would save themselves a lot of research if the looked for contented buyers,then just group the rest as horror stories,of one sort or another .should only take a couple of hours JOB DONE....

JSutherland


Joined: 19/07/2010
Posts: 23

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 20:13

That bad huh! ?



Some of the worst stories will suffice...

Scoty


Joined: 23/05/2010
Posts: 846

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 20:23

another LOS - last time NC was mentioned programme started in spain!

more great news from the other side - where 80% of people go shopping.

what to you believe?

Groucho



Joined: 26/04/2008
Posts: 7993

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 20:27

Is it any better in the south? Given the regular features in the south's press it appears it could even be worse...

newlad



Joined: 02/03/2008
Posts: 7819

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 20:28

John,

When is the programme due to be aired,

Paul.

Brinsley


Joined: 04/04/2009
Posts: 6858

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 20:28

They should first look at their Birmingham studios!



Richard

Blackpoolfan


Joined: 03/12/2008
Posts: 1568

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 20:29

Publicity, great news depending on how it is portrayed, in theory it could kill the property market for years, not that the crooked, idiotic government/builders haven't done that already

TheScarlets



Joined: 14/04/2009
Posts: 877

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 20:31

It's not only happening in the North. I was with someone in Surrey last week who is heading to the South with a BBC film crew very soon as he has been a victim but more so, has substantial proof of detailed corruption against Solicitors and builders there. Watch this space!

negativenick


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 6023

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 20:33

and they laughed.....

Blackbird



Joined: 11/08/2009
Posts: 1432

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 21:10

.................From what I hear they could record a whole series................

Scoty


Joined: 23/05/2010
Posts: 846

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 21:16

original post - planning? been in touch? dedicated in part?

beliueve there are pink pigs over your house tonoght

BTW - what experiences do yo have that iTN get in touch with you and not other groups over here!

another wind up from our southern brothers!

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 21:18

msg 14 Yes and it would run for several seasons!!!

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 21:22

msg14 addendum .............bit like the ORAMS fiasco!!

TRNCvictim


Joined: 17/08/2010
Posts: 1417

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 21:23

Zerochlor (message 2) you could join us, the "Homes from Hell" victims, I could show ITV how you inter- connect?



Would you like me to?

Blackbird



Joined: 11/08/2009
Posts: 1432

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 21:32

Message 17, yes...the Orams fiasco.......???

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 21:34

Presumably the TRNC estate agents will be asked if they know where it all went wrong..I bet they have been practising there answers for months....( All in new suits looking like respectable business men/women)

You know the sort of thing.......( Great House No Prob's with Kojan or PTP it's just a formality ,,and on the hole it a nice little runner,Sorry House!)

JSutherland


Joined: 19/07/2010
Posts: 23

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 22:44

NEWLAD... The program is planned for later this year for airing.



Scoty ... original post - planning? been in touch? dedicated in part?

planning... yes planning... they must plan these things before the broadcast.. do they not?

Been in touch... yes... by email and by phone. i will send you the email if you like..

dedicated in part... yes... the 1 hour program normally has TWO stories.. SO NC would be one of them



I lived in that god awful place for 18 months and have a great deal of bad experience of it... Have you?



Its ITV not ITN.. and I am NOT from Southern Cyprus.



Jeez... I cant believe that the people in the North who have bad experiences do not want to share this with people in the UK. Should it not be prudent to warn others of the dangers of buying property in NC?... or do you want everyone else to suffer as badly as you?



If you dont want to share your experience then fine.



Let others who DO want to tell the world whats going on get in touch.

JSutherland


Joined: 19/07/2010
Posts: 23

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 22:50

Just for you Scoty....



To: j***@**********.co.uk

Subject: ITV Homes from Hell



Hi John



Thanks for your email. It would be great if you could send me your phone number so I can give you a call.



Kind regards



Laura

Laura Stevens | Assistant Producer | Manchester Production Factual - Editorial | ITV plc

16th Floor, The London Television Centre, Upper Ground | SE1 9LT





ITV plc Head Office Tel +44 (0) 20 7157 3000 itv.com

Please consider the environment before printing this email



________________________________________

ITV Studios Limited (Registration No. 3106525) (“ITV”) is incorporated in England and Wales with its registered office at The London Television Centre, Upper Ground, London SE1 9LT. Please visit the official ITV website at http://www.itv.com for the latest company news.



Although ITV routinely screens for viruses, recipients should scan this email and any attachments for viruses. ITV makes no representation or warranty that this email or any o

The_Big_Man


Joined: 14/06/2009
Posts: 112

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 23:12

Will have to mention this to my parents!

twaddle


Joined: 06/07/2008
Posts: 245

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 23:20

It is a real shame that there isn't a programme that features people who are happy with their homes.

I can't be the only one!

stephen48


Joined: 25/06/2009
Posts: 224

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 23:44

no twaddle, you're not. we're happy with ours. we actually bought from a builder with whom a lot of people have problems but for some reason we haven't. decent house for the amount we paid, kocan obtained.



we feel so badly for those who have not had the same experience we have had.



some of the stories you hear are heartbreaking but best wishes to all those who are fighting for justice. behind you 100 per cent . the system is very wrong and needs to be changed.

newlad



Joined: 02/03/2008
Posts: 7819

Message Posted:
05/10/2010 23:54

That makes three of us twaddle and Stephen,

Paul.

The_Big_Man


Joined: 14/06/2009
Posts: 112

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 00:31

very lucky people I guess, few and far between?

Hippo


Joined: 02/02/2007
Posts: 2070

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 06:55

I agree with the twaddle.

programmes like this play straight into the Grecco's hands.

I am more than satisfied with my lot here.

The problem with some people that buy here is that they leave thier brains on the aircraft.

Groucho



Joined: 26/04/2008
Posts: 7993

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 07:05

Did they ever get to the UK airport? I'm not so sure..

kavenkoy


Joined: 10/04/2008
Posts: 1787

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 07:05

im happy with mine ....got what we paid for and love the place



itv would be best down in the south where lots more stories of property scams and lack of kocans have emerged



kav

scoobydoo


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 2434

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 07:07

We, too, must be in the minority as we are very happy and on our 3rd house and have had no problems whatsoever.



Can't tv companies do a programme showing both good and bad so further purchasers are aware of the pitfalls but can also see that there is a good side or is it that good stories are just not that interesting???

twaddle


Joined: 06/07/2008
Posts: 245

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 10:46

Halelulijah! * Shock news! Property buyers in TRNC happy with their lot*

I too feel sorry for those with problems but the constant sniping at the property market and bad mouthing of the TRNC in general will do nothing to instill confidence in a young and developing nation.

Perhaps we need a new post titled "I am happy with my lot" !!

fatboy



Joined: 05/11/2008
Posts: 244

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 11:45

We are happy with ours.

flutterby


Joined: 11/01/2008
Posts: 214

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 12:01

Happy with ours too. Of course there are problems here, as there are in many countries. Surely the negative and the positive should be shown, although granted it is called 'Homes from Hell, but could potentially de value and kill business for the 'good' properties.

TheSaints



Joined: 28/01/2009
Posts: 1369

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 13:23

We are happy with ours too, purchased through Unwins with absolutely no problems at all, the construction company Fikri Terkan done a great job, PTP permission granted with no problems, no problems with build quality or snagging, service connections or advocates all in all everything has gone smoothly.......



Mike

HildySmith


Joined: 02/07/2009
Posts: 1708

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 20:52

I was at the last Homebuyers Pressure Group when the Head of the Constructors Union was a Guest. We were told that it was no good going to the British Press as this would do more harm.

It was pointed out that this sort of programme would prevent others from falling into the same trap we did - but Marian Stokes was not in favour of this type of action and condemned it.

hilda


Joined: 10/09/2009
Posts: 80

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 21:06

Very unfair of you saying no problem with my house,turn it around and you would do anything to get justice,well i would hope you would,why not be honest and say,i am all right jack,do not rock the boat,and let me say this,i have no home in Cyprus to fight for,but i feel for all those people that have been cheated out of their money and health,a very selfish view

zerochlor


Joined: 03/04/2009
Posts: 4024

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 21:20

message 17 TRNC-Victim.



How i inter-connect! Or how im inter-connected? i did not think i was!



Of course you could show them,but as yet i do feel im not a victim.



And yes i suppose i could join you if i was resident in the UK.



But i do feel i know where your going with your post.

Binkey


Joined: 04/09/2010
Posts: 15

Message Posted:
06/10/2010 23:34

We bought in 2003 from a reputable builder who we checked out from several different angles. He was superb, we have our kojan. This programme will only serve to damage the property market further. We feel very sorry for those who have had bad experiences but people should be very cautious when buying overseas. In 1990 we bought in Portugal and there were just as many horrendous experiences going on there then. Never buy off-plan and make sure you see a finished building to view built by the builder you are negotiating with. Talk to other buyers and believe less than half you are told!

With regard to those who are fighting for their rights now - more power to their elbows. As in Portugal the corruption will fade away in time as the devious builders and lawyers go out of buisness but there will be pain in the short term.

twaddle


Joined: 06/07/2008
Posts: 245

Message Posted:
07/10/2010 00:15

Hilda, ref message 34. It is not a case of "I'm alright Jack" Who cannot feel sympathy for those who have been cheated out of their hard earned money?

However, I know that many people have bought properies successfully. If you read the majority of reports about the TRNC in the media or watch TV shows such as Holiday Homes from Hell, you would think that it is impossible to buy anything other than problems here. This in turn further depresses the property market and helps none of us. More construction companies will go to the wall leaving even more people up the creek without a paddle and for those of us that have bought without problems, it will result in our properties being worth less and less.

So before proclaiming that we are all doomed it would be a good idea to think about who will gain from such statements.

That said of course, why do you want to make any comments about the situation when you don't even own a property here?

JSutherland


Joined: 19/07/2010
Posts: 23

Message Posted:
07/10/2010 13:03

I dont think people here have really understood the purpose of the HFH program. Its is not aimed at the TRNC in particular but specifically at ALL countries where UK residents have purchased property abroad (from the UK) and its not been a good story. So stop thinking that anyone is trying to bad mouth TRNC property companies. Its a warning to potential investors in property abroad that dealing in foreing countries is not as straight forward as purchasing in the UK and that there are MANY pitfalls. If the program can raise awareness of the issue of differing purchasing laws in countries outside of the UK then it will encourage people to be more careful when considering their option. It is NOT an anti TRNC property program. Dont you think it would be a good idea to alert people in the UK to the dangers of not doing things properly? and letting them know of the consequences of not following the strict rules. Its better to be forwarned about issues.



You will be doing people a favour.

hilda


Joined: 10/09/2009
Posts: 80

Message Posted:
07/10/2010 13:40

twaddle ,your last line,do you really need to be told that,do you think it might be that i have sympathy for others,please let this drop now,you have your ideas i have mine,i wish you well

Regards

yeniboy


Joined: 07/09/2010
Posts: 11

Message Posted:
07/10/2010 15:21

JSutherland. Don't feed that nonsense about 'fore warned is for armed and we must warn potential buyers in the TRNC..................rubbish! This country is different from Spain, France, etc as we are immersed in politics and have close neighbours who want the country destroyed. All these programmes are just another nail in the coffin of the TRNC. I know that's what a lot of people want along with the GC sympathisers that infest the media, you only have to hear 'unbiased' reports about Cyprus on the radio and television. A recent BBC World Radio programme called Witness was supposed to tell the story of the 1974 intervention from both sides. We heard a lot of 'horror' from the Greek Cypriot who became a 'refugee' accompanied by sound effects of bombing and shooting and nothing of any substance from the Turkish Cypriot participant who of course did not become a refugee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The only people you would be doing a favour would be the GC's

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
07/10/2010 15:26

Hi Twaddle,Just a query if I may..Is it not the case that the TRNC is NOT recognised by any country other than Turkey?Is it also True that at the moment with regard to THE TALKS that anything could happen here..Laws change all the time YES?...SO given that you live in an unrecognised poorley regulated (some think ILLEGAL)country, is it not the case that your DEEDS PTP etc are actually only recognised within the" present" Legal system,here on this unrecognised land ...Im sorry but it does't sound ROCK SOLID to Me





Martin

Hector


Joined: 26/08/2008
Posts: 2352

Message Posted:
07/10/2010 19:46

I wonder if the Orams or the Days would agree with the 'I'm alright, so stop knocking the TRNC cos it might affect the value of my property' attitude of some here?

I've obviously got completely the wrong end of the stick and all is lovely and honest with the TRNC property market, legal system, politicians, builders, developers, advocates etc. Silly me.



I wonder why there was a protest outside the Turkish Embassy in London this week? I also wonder why on earth there are various web sites dedicated to spreading the word about the problems people have had with their properties, refusals of permission to purchase, mortgages being taken out on paid for properties, memorandums for debts being placed against paid for property which the property owner can do nothing about, malicious allegations of theft and blackmail by builders against their property buying customers, problems re title of 'exchange land' etc etc.



I wonder why the Home Buyers Pressure Group was formed?

Blackpoolfan


Joined: 03/12/2008
Posts: 1568

Message Posted:
07/10/2010 20:39

Ever thought that if the Government weren't a bunch of crooked clowns and the justice system wasn't living in the colonial times things may be a lot better????

twaddle


Joined: 06/07/2008
Posts: 245

Message Posted:
07/10/2010 21:21

Martin, you are of course right. But then what about properties in The ROC, or Spain, or Portugal? they all have problems for ex pats who have fallen foul of their systems.

Speak to most people in the UK about owning property in the TRNC and they will almost certainly tell you that "the Greeks will be taking their homes back won't they?" The Orams case has done a huge amount of damage to the property market in the TRNC and programmes such as Hoiliday Homes from Hell continue to press home that fact without referring to the Demopoulos case which puts a totally different spin on property ownership here. I know things are a long way from perfect but the constant bad mouthing of the TRNC does nothing to make things better. Those that want to take action I applaud but those who just want to moan and do nothing help no one.

JSutherland


Joined: 19/07/2010
Posts: 23

Message Posted:
07/10/2010 21:30

Hector.. thank you for pointing all that out.

yeniboy.. you are talking nonsense. I have already explained that the program is NOT ABOUT TRNC. Its a general problem for overseas property buyer.

Personally I couldn't care less if anyone gets in touch or doesn't. I will be telling my story about my experiences and they were not good.

The last word I will say on this (no further posts from me) is.. this is an opportunity for anyone in the TRNC who has something to say to the people of the UK about their bad house buying experiences in NC.



Put up or shut up. If you have something to say.. say it. If you dont, then let someone who does have something to say speak up.

The program is called "Homes from Hell".. It's not about a good avertising campaign for property buyers in TRNC. Its a program based on FACTS.



The program will be transmitted whether you like it or not. So its up to you.

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 04:21

Hector

'I'm alright, so stop knocking the TRNC cos it might affect the value of my property' attitude of some here?



Its called 'ramping up' and common when going into stocks and shares forums and some newspapers.

People write in saying how happy they are with the(bad) shares and how things will get even better and pretend the share potential is that good that they are going to buy more,when in fact they want other people to buy in order that the share price goes up and they can then sell and get out.



In a dead property market, one cant really blame people being concerned about bad publicity affecting there ability to sell up,some people have sunk everything into their property purchase and probably reckon no amount of protest is going to change anything for the good anyway.

As trying to sweep things under the carpet hoping unsuspecting buyers come along, its easy to be moral if we are not in the same situation. Dog eat dog? and caveat emptor?

Groucho



Joined: 26/04/2008
Posts: 7993

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 07:21

Mr Sutherland,



It may not be your understanding that the intention of the program is not to do down the TRNC but you can bet your boots that's how it will come over to many.. Many a ship foundered on good intentions.



It would be far more useful to viewers if the programme was to point how property purchase should be done and which steps should be taken to ensure they will get the property they think they are buying.



1. Don't buy off-plan from anyone other than the most stable of companies (take advice)

2. Preferably buy a re-sale, then WYSIWYG

3. Check the position of the property in relation to military sites.

4. Make sure you don't have a criminal record that might prevent PTP

5. Engage a lawyer with a long history of proper dealings - not just one the builder recommends.



Don't sign anything until you've done all your homework and had the contract checked.

yeniboy


Joined: 07/09/2010
Posts: 11

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 07:50

Well said Groucho, That idiot JSutherland obviously did not read what I said or anybody else said by reading his last posting and by the tone of it, he is an arrogant B........! He says he's right and that's it!

Groucho



Joined: 26/04/2008
Posts: 7993

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 08:22

sorry too many 'nots'



Should have read:_



"It may be your understanding that the intention of the program is not to do down the TRNC but you can bet your boots that's how it will come over to many."

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 08:47

msg46.. That's my point. The ROC,Spain,Portugal are" RECOGNISED" countries and Ex-pats have come unstuck ...So what is in store for an UN-Recognised country with an unstable legal system?



Martin

HildySmith


Joined: 02/07/2009
Posts: 1708

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 09:08

This programme was brought up by a speaker at the last Home Buyers Pressure Group meeting when the Constructors Union Chief Sollen Y****** was present.

Marian Stokes stated that it was no use going to the British press or even the Turkish press. She stated that getting a load of bad publicity would serve no purpose. Others in the audience pointed out it would stop other Brits falling into the same pit we did and the builders etc go on raking it in.

Marian also said that taking your Builder to court is a 'waste of time and money - She advocated making a complaint (form on her website) to the Union.

So where does that leave us who have been s*** on from a great height and have no home to live in (living in a poor home is better than not being able to live in your home and having to rent someone elses.

Tenakoutou



Joined: 27/07/2009
Posts: 4110

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 09:19

martinD41: 'So what is in store for an UN-Recognised country with an unstable legal system?'



Well, the answer to that one may be precisely what Mr. Denktash warned all those who attended the Kulaksiz 5 auction about - 'another 1400 similar auctions in the pipeline....', or words to that effect.

TheSaints



Joined: 28/01/2009
Posts: 1369

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 10:59

Msg 49 Groucho



You have described exactly the way we made our purchase and everything has gone smoothly...........



Mike

Groucho



Joined: 26/04/2008
Posts: 7993

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 12:16

Glad to hear it Mike, of course shit happens... it happens in the UK too. If you follow some sensible guidelines then, given what we know now, there is no reason why anybody should fall into the trap of buying a pipe-dream..



If the programmes of this ilk focussed on the solution and proper methodology then less of it (shit) would happen.



Of course nothing makes better TV than other peoples misfortune... and therein lies the driver for such programmes... voyeurism. Sad but true...

JSutherland


Joined: 19/07/2010
Posts: 23

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 12:20

yeniboy.. I said I would not post again but I will make an exception in your case. I am not an idiot. Nor am I an arrogant B. Please refrain from personal assaults.

The only arrogance I can see here is from people in this group who are trying to defend the indefensible. The foreign purchase of property, whether in TRNC or anywhere else, is a major problem for people who are investing their lifetime savings in scams and bad transactions which inevitably lead to massive financial losses. Regardless of whether people are concerned about 'depressing the price of their existing property' or 'giving the TRNC a bad name', there needs to be some strong warning message to people to be aware of the pitfalls.



hildy.. I have never met Marion Stokes and nor do I want to. There is no such thing as bad publicity.

Highlight the problem to all, embarrass those who would steal your money, let everyone know the truth.

DONT BURY YOUR HEAD IN THE SAND.



Another opp to speak out is ignored. AGAIN

TheSaints



Joined: 28/01/2009
Posts: 1369

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 12:48

JSutherland



I am not trying to defend anything at all I gave an honest account of my experience purchasing a property in TRNC, I followed the same principles when buying a place in Russia, Bugaria and the UK and I have never had a purchase go wrong.

I don't think anyone is burying thier head in the sand they just remember all the past programmes that have been done which just turned into lengthy programmes on the South and 10 minutes of anti TRNC propoganda what is going to make this one any different?

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 13:12

msg54, Hi Tenakoutou,,, 1,400 more auctions, is precisely what I was hinting at , so why can't the "Happy" ones spot it coming? Is it that they don't want to think that they have DONE their money?

TheSaints



Joined: 28/01/2009
Posts: 1369

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 13:22

msg 59



Maybe the "Happy Ones" already factored in the future posibilities and purchased within thier means and took a calculated risk and as such can afford the loss IF it ever came to the worst when they did thier homework before purchasing, therfore have not as you put it "Done Thier Money", they have took a gamble they can afford and right now they are the "Happy Ones"

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 14:06

msg59,,,I think you will find that a LARGE percentage of BRITS that re -located here were victims of unscrupulous Estate agents, Builders, and to some extent lawyers. Researching the facts in depth is only effective if the FACTS are correct..They, the unlucky ones, were given misleading advice in order to secure a sale.....Not knowing that they were in actual fact "GAMBLING" on the truths they were told...It can't be right to now tell these trusting folk "Are well you Gambled and lost SORRY" These are genuine people NOT stock market traders,many have sunk their life savings into a property the may NEVER OWN, its an utter disgrace!!

TRNCvictim


Joined: 17/08/2010
Posts: 1417

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 14:24

martinD41 (mess61)



How right you are, the only difference of opinion to your post is "THEY WILL NEVER OWN" not may, and yes it certainly is an utter disgrace, how anyone who has been fortunate enough to steer through the corruption through sheer luck, can look down on fellow human beings, telling victims what they can afford or not is incomprehensible, and then sits back feeling smug, telling everyone who's been ravaged by the TRNC to shut up in case they hurt your Investment, or the economy of the poor TRNC, the many victims don't have to do that, the TRNC Government have done it all by themselves! It's already a done deal!

Pugwash


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 1797

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 14:39

Totally agree with Groucho and The Saints, had no issue purchasing at all, happy with what I have, did some research first (not a lot) took some advice which was sound.

TheSaints



Joined: 28/01/2009
Posts: 1369

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 15:45

Msg 62

I don't think anyone is being smug, just because everything has gone ok for me does not mean I do not sympathise with those who have had or are having a rough ride.

But some people give the impression that it happens to everyone or is going to happen to every prospective buyer which is not the case.

Far from shutting up I believe you should let people know the pitfalls of purchasing in the same breath people who are happy should be able to express thier opinion too without being berated by those who are not happy. Maybe you may get more support for your cause.....

I have met many more people in TRNC that are happy with thier situation than are not..........

fiendishpaul


Joined: 18/05/2008
Posts: 1720

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 17:01

Groucho



Re message 49.



Had to smile when I read your 5 'tips' to 'safely' buying a property in the TRNC. All of them are common sense points and ones that I would hope that most buyers have followed. However, whilst these worked for you, there is no guarantee that they would work for someone else. This is called the 'TRNC factor' - e.g. 6 people on the same development apply for PTP at the same time, 2 receive PTP, 4 are turned down due to the proximity to a military base.



Whilst buyers can do a certain degree of homework that will 'protect' them, they will always be at the mercy of the TRNC system and all its' foibles. Some will be lucky, some won't. You might as well flip a coin



Paul

measey


Joined: 07/02/2009
Posts: 1037

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 17:05

Take Risks except the outcome.

Pugwash


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 1797

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 17:13

Measey do you mean accept the outcome? Do you consider it a risk in this case?

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 17:18

msg64, It's not about smugness,it's not about research,it's not even about luck..The people that have LOST OUT have done so though" NO FAULT" of there own...Taking this into account they have EVERY right to decry,denounce and vilify whosoever it may concern....

Amerillo


Joined: 17/09/2010
Posts: 69

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 17:38

Message 68



spot on

measey


Joined: 07/02/2009
Posts: 1037

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 17:50

Pugwash. Personally no.

TheSaints



Joined: 28/01/2009
Posts: 1369

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 18:01

Msg68



Instead of just looking at my posts on this topice actually read them and you will see that I have not disagreed with thier right to make thier voice heard.

There is more than one voice to be heard unfortunately some people do not see that.

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 18:21

msg71...It is far easier to calm a happy cat, than to quiet a raging lion..(Julius Caesar) I understand your point completely, but you cannot expect those who have been Hurt to speak softly....they will always be louder than the contented...

Groucho



Joined: 26/04/2008
Posts: 7993

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 18:43

Yes they are common sense... but how many people fail to do just one of them and then wonder why it's gone wrong.



We are not being smug... people need to understand that they can minimise risk and first port of call is not a lawyer recommended by the builder.

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 19:38

msg 73 "Groucho" In ENGLISH PLEASE!

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 19:53

This programme is about people who have been ripped off ,its not about people who have done alright ,



To object to the programme because it might affect the value of ones property implies we want to pull the wool over peoples eyes,and makes us no better that some estate agents.



Just as I would be very suspicious of a plumber who objected to the tricks of the trade being aired on Rogue Traders with the excuse it isnt about good plumbers, If about to buy property in TRNC I would be very concerned about the fuss over a programme dedicated to publicising shady dealings and wonder if I should be buying in a place where so many Brits think informing me of what might happen ,is a bad thing.



On the programmes about France Dubai Ireland etc I didnt remember anyone Brit or local, indicating that the victims should have kept quiet for the sake of property values.



On the other hand I suppose a lot in the UK will say we deserve what we get for ignoring FO advice .

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 22:27

msg75.thank you

TRNCvictim


Joined: 17/08/2010
Posts: 1417

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 22:32

girne 29 (mess 75)



If only the FO advice was there in 2003/4

Hector


Joined: 26/08/2008
Posts: 2352

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 22:44

The buying of property in the TRNC is like walking through a minefield without realising it until too late. Yes, some happy people manage to walk through it and survive unscathed, and then may be forgiven for saying 'Minefield? What minefield?'. Unfortunately all too many others don't have that luxury. Many victims may have hired a mine detector (also known as an advocate) but they proved defective.

JSutherland


Joined: 19/07/2010
Posts: 23

Message Posted:
08/10/2010 23:54

msg 75... I thank you for your honesty.. you got the message ABSOLUTELY right.

John

JSutherland


Joined: 19/07/2010
Posts: 23

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 04:22

girne 29... please email me with your contact details (email address). I would love to talk with you. John and Linzi

Groucho



Joined: 26/04/2008
Posts: 7993

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 07:02

Do you think the focus of the programme will differentiate between the good and the bad home buying or will all home buying in the TRNC be portrayed as bad?



If it's the latter, it's not a true representation of the facts...



I'm not saying the programme should not be made or that everything is lovely... just that, as a lot of people have found out how not to do it... advice could be given on how to avoid the pitfalls... but that won't be part of the programme. They will just advise... don't buy in the TRNC... what about the south? It's pretty dodgy there too!



Why just the TRNC in Cyprus? It's a bit like telling all Manchester girls to stay in and not drink if you want to avoid date-rape... by implication it's safe elsewhere.

twaddle


Joined: 06/07/2008
Posts: 245

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 09:07

Spot on Groucho!

Bradus


Joined: 25/02/2007
Posts: 2641

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 17:11

Maybe what the programme will point out, is that the buying process together with the laws of the TRNC leave buyers wide open to abuse? Surely it is the risk element that needs highlighting? Poor quality building maybe a problem but this can be rectified and monitored?



There are many that have purchased successfully but it really is a case of luck rather than doing research.

For instance those that were successful were still at the mercy of a builder who could if he had wished, or if his financial circumstances had changed, have ended up with memorandums on their property. They were also at the mercy of the developer for handover of deeds as there is no legal obligation for him to do so.



There will always be winners and losers, no matter where you buy but what makes the TRNC different from other places is its inability and refusal to remove these unacceptable risks and allow the developer to dictate the final outcome?



I wish the program luck in identifying the above.

Isabella


Joined: 02/10/2008
Posts: 199

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 17:46

I wonder how foreign buyers view the process of buying properties in the UK - builder goes bankrupt as so many have! That would be an interesting TV programme - one to watch

orbitaldreams


Joined: 10/08/2009
Posts: 13

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 18:12

Bradus has said it- '..what makes the TRNC different from other places is its inability and refusal to remove these unacceptable risks and allow the developer to dictate the final outcome'.



I would also add the other party very often present but unbeknown to the innocent buyers until much later, the landowner, who pops out of the woodwork when the builder runs into difficulties, and promptly blackmails the buyers. I have spoken to lots of people from many sites in TRNC where the 'landowner' issue is costing them an extra £10's of £1000's each to obtain their title deed, not to mention finishing their own villas and having to pay for the infrastructure to go in. The law here allows and supports the landowner to do this as far as I can see, and even allows them to put subsequent memorandums on land for which there are already sales contracts signed! What other country allows this to happen?



Yes, it should be publicised through HFH so people understand the issues.

Bradus


Joined: 25/02/2007
Posts: 2641

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 18:13

But in the UK don't you change money, keys and deeds all on the same day? I know I have on all purchases. My solicitor would not release any money/deeds until then.

orbitaldreams


Joined: 10/08/2009
Posts: 13

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 18:29

Also in the UK any defaults on the Sales Contract clauses would be taken very seriously and backed up fully by the judicial system. Its only when you get to TRNC that you realise the contracts and their clauses that you very carefully had professionally checked and signed up to are widely acknowledged not to be worth the paper that they are written on, and even the solicitors here that allow you to sign the contracts, know in advance that the terms are unenforceable.



People should not have to come here to find this out; they need to know in advance, preferably before they consider buying.

JSutherland


Joined: 19/07/2010
Posts: 23

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 19:17

groucho... You have note read my posts correctly! This program is called Homes from Hell.. Its not a bl**dy advert for good purchasing practises. So YES, it will focus on bad situations and not advertise the good ones. Thats not what the program is about. It will make no apology for that. Also, and I will say this again... ITS NOT ABOUT TRNC.

The program covers ALL countries including the UK. Believe it or not there are far worse horror stories in other european countries.

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 19:19

Isabella

Nothing like the UK.

A contract is a legal document in the UK. A builder could never mortgage land that he had sold to you.Even in the event of offplan ,and the builder went bankrupt you would only at the most lose the deposit,and that only if the assets of the builder were used up.You would have legal remedy in law against fraud.



It doesnt matter that only some people have been done and therefore we shouldnt air the problem .

Wrongdoing should not be swept under the carpet just because we are not affected personally.

I havent been mugged ,but if there was no law against it ,I wouldnt be happy,and if I had been mugged I would have liked it even less to be told to keep quiet lest I damage the areas reputation.

Isabella


Joined: 02/10/2008
Posts: 199

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 20:02

I prefer to see a more positive programme. A programme which talked you through the correct procedures to adopt in all the countries mentioned in the programme when thinking of purchasing and later purchasing properties, both new and resale. This would also include a list of reputable lawyers for the countries mentioned.



Remember this is a relatively new country, with a relatively new government - learning on the job - people purchasing should be aware of this.

dalartokat


Joined: 14/04/2008
Posts: 734

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 20:05

The programme that featured the "Orams" has been repeated 5 times in the UK since being made. The last time was last Monday evening. One assumes that by now it must have reached quite a large audience. Would not like to hazard a guess of what percentage of those people would make their minds up to say that they would not now buy in Northern Cyprus through that programme being shown.



People will make their own minds up and make their own decisions as they have done since the early 2000's despite being told not to do it and on an even keel people were also being told that it was quite ok to buy because they had been successful. So to make another programme about horror stories buying in Spain, Portugal, Cyprus and TRNC can only make good TV for the programme makers but I don't think it will alter peoples minds if they are intent on moving to another country despite what they may have heard or seen on TV.

Groucho



Joined: 26/04/2008
Posts: 7993

Message Posted:
09/10/2010 22:53

"groucho... You have note read my posts correctly!"



I'm not suggesting the programme should not be made... I'm suggesting it should be Cyprus wide and also feature ways of preventing problems if they exist....



You don't go to a doctor just to be told you are ill you go to get some advice and possibly a cure....



I wonder who the sponsors for the programme are? Most TV has somebody footing the production costs these days.

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
10/10/2010 09:53

msg92..Groucho....Not a good Example, Some Doctors are better trained than others,and some should be "STRUCK OFF".....

Groucho



Joined: 26/04/2008
Posts: 7993

Message Posted:
10/10/2010 17:49

MartinD41



So should some programme makers...........