Trump, ’s guilty verdict unprecedented

Trump, ’s guilty verdict unprecedented

A felony conviction just months ahead of a presidential race in the United States is unheard of. Yet Donald J. Trump has become the first former president and the first GOP candidate to be convicted by a New York jury on all 34 counts in his criminal case of hush-money. Trump himself called the verdict … Read more

What is the solution for low-cost housing?

What is the solution for low-cost housing?

The cost of buying houses or apartments in Cyprus has become a big issue, especially in recent years. The level of residential rents has increased by around 20% in the last 2 years. Various proposals have been made to alleviate the problem, including increasing area ratio, abolishing minimum areas, and creating low-cost units. Immediate measures are needed to address the housing crisis, such as tax reductions for landlords who rent out apartments and implementing summary eviction procedures. Colleges and universities could also play a role in providing housing for students. The Housing Finance Corporation and Land Development Agency may not be able to effectively address the issue.

Aristotle in the age of AI: When data breeds inequality

Aristotle in the age of AI: When data breeds inequality

Fact: Aristotle observed “There is nothing more unequal than the equal treatment of unequal things.”

Sunshine and strain , – a market divided

Sunshine and strain , – a market divided

– The Cyprus real estate sector is experiencing growth and prosperity, with a booming economy and construction flourishing in coastal hotspots like Limassol.
– Locals are facing financial strain due to rising interest rates, inflated property prices, and loan restructuring, while foreign investors are attracted to Cyprus for its incentives.
– Foreign investment has fueled the coastal boom but creates vulnerability due to reliance on external capital.
– Cyprus has a history of overlooking problems and needs a proactive approach from the government to ensure long-term stability.
– One in four persons living in Cyprus was born overseas, contributing to the economy and cultural landscape.
– Challenges in the housing market include increased competition for jobs, rising prices, and pressure on public services.
– Integration policies and inclusive economic planning are essential to ensure fair distribution of benefits and foster shared prosperity for all residents.

Putting order to the common expenses saga

Putting order to the common expenses saga

The text discusses the issue of common expenses in buildings and the need for a common expenses association to address the problems caused by non-payment of these expenses. The association would have thousands of members and would aim to collect common expenses debts through legal means. The proposal includes the requirement for a certificate from the management committee before any property can be rented, sold, or mortgaged, and the possibility of assigning disputes to a special arbitrator.

Keep your receipts for income tax

Keep your receipts for income tax

Efforts are being made worldwide to reduce tax evasion. In Cyprus, there is a proposal to deduct a percentage of expenses up to €50,000 per year for income tax purposes. This may benefit higher earners more than low-income owners. Failure to provide receipts for expenses contributes to tax evasion. Various sectors, such as healthcare, construction, and real estate, are involved in undeclared payments. The issue extends to the catering and leisure sector, with examples of large amounts of undeclared money being spent. The state loses revenue due to tax evasion, and efforts are being made to encourage card payments to combat this issue.

Oil prices under pressure due to slower economies

Oil prices under pressure due to slower economies

Oil prices are trading down due to disappointing economic data and a rise in US crude oil inventories.

Property tax company Ownwell refuses to defend itself from charges by competitors

Property tax company Ownwell refuses to defend itself from charges by competitors

A property tax company called Ownwell in North Texas is offering to file homestead designation paperwork for homeowners for free, but then charges 25% of the savings from homestead exemptions. The company has been criticized for making false promises and misstating the pricing of its competitors. The Better Business Bureau revoked Ownwell’s A+ rating in February. It is advised to make sure you have a homestead exemption on your primary residence and not fall for deceptive practices during the property tax season.

Cypriots squeezed out of the property market

Cypriots squeezed out of the property market

Cypriots are facing difficulties in the property market due to climbing rents, high construction costs, and interest rates. The government is being urged to intervene to address the issue. In Limassol, renting a one-bedroom flat costs a minimum of €850 a month, making it unaffordable for many locals. The government has introduced new construction incentives to stimulate affordable housing development.

The illogical trend of holiday tents and yurts

The illogical trend of holiday tents and yurts

The Deputy Ministry of Tourism is working on upgrading the quality of local hotels and entertainment venues while also encouraging the development of camping in an organized fashion within non-residential areas. The proposed camp sites must be set up in wooded areas or areas to be planted by developers and have specific requirements such as sewage treatment plants, electricity, parking, fencing, and security. There are concerns about the haphazard development of these camp sites and potential ecological destruction in areas like Troodos and Akamas.