Own a kosher slice of Cyprus

Property entrepreneur Daniel Morris Goldberg, founder of DRL Real Estate, has teamed up with the Chief Rabbi of Cyprus, Rabbi Ziv Raskin, to develop a holiday home complex and Jewish community centre in Cyprus.

Carob Gardens will comprise more than 250 apartments and villas with a number of communal amenities, alongside a Jewish community centre featuring a synagogue, a mikveh, a kosher kitchen, a convenience store, an events space and a cigar lounge.

We asked Daniel about the development.

Why Cyprus?

I saw the speed at which this island is evolving along with the capital appreciation of real estate and felt inclined to invest. My belief in Cyprus stems from its favourable tax regime, climate, safety and growing tech scene.

What is Carob Gardens?

Carob Gardens is our flagship development in a beachfront fishing village called Zygi, which is strategically located on the island between Limassol, Larnaca and Nicosia. The name is significant as Zygi used to be the centre of the carob (previously referred to as black gold) trade in Cyprus, and the original storehouses are still a feature in the village centre.

How many houses are on the complex and how many have you sold so far?

The first phase consists of 52 apartments in a gated complex. We started off-plan sales in midSeptember and have already sold 19 apartments.

How much do the apartments cost?

They range from €175,000 (£146,000) (one bedroom) to €360,000 (three bedrooms).

What do buyers get for their buck?

The complex itself offers a number of communal facilities including swimming pools (adults and children’s), a fitness centre, beautifully-landscaped gardens and a children’s playground. The apartments are generous in size, offering a variety of views, ranging from communal gardens to the sea, and will be finished to a very high standard.

When will the development be ready?

We aim to begin construction at the start of February 2025, with a 24-month completion window.

Can people buy off-plan now?

Yes, we are planning to sell all apartments off-plan during the construction process.

Why is Cyprus a prime choice for UK Jews to buy a property?

I believe Cyprus should be a strong consideration due to its close proximity/ connectivity to Israel (up to 10 flights daily from Larnaca Airport during peak season) and affordability. It is also the most neutral European country that I’ve visited in recent years, where Jews of all levels and backgrounds can feel comfortable to practice their rituals.

Is the development suitable for those from all levels of Jewish practice? For sure. The Jewish Community Centre is a standalone project that will feature within the neighbourhood but outside of any housing complex. The idea is to create a hub where Jews from all walks of life can convene and engage, irrespective of their religious standards.

Do you think there will be an increase in British Jews buying holiday homes in Cyprus?

I believe that there should be and we would like to be at the forefront of this trend. This is why I felt so strongly about creating the community centre with Rabbi Ziv Raskin, as a means of providing every Jew with the chance to continue their traditions away from home, whether it’s on Shabbat, during the Jewish holidays or simply to fill their fridge with kosher foods.

Why should British Jews consider purchasing a property in Cyprus?

Rabbi Raskin said: “We are extremely proud and excited to partner with DRL on this project. After more than 20 years of effort, we are becoming one of the fastest-growing communities across Europe and I see this trend continuing especially once the new Jewish school opens in 2026 that will eventually cater for up to 1,500 students.”

What is the minimum down payment for foreign buyers?

Typically, there is an initial reservation fee of €10,000 plus VAT, and the balance is paid according to the progress of construction across multiple stages.

Are there any additional costs associated with purchasing property in Cyprus?

For new-build properties, there is VAT applied at a rate of 5% if you are a first-time buyer on the island. In addition, there are legal fees (although DRL Real Estate are covering these locally for all prospective buyers) and stamp duty/ transfer fees.

What would you say to those thinking about making the move?

Do not hesitate. Cyprus is a beautiful island with so much to offer. It’s within the EU (the rumours are that it will join the Schengen Zone in 2025), a 40-minute flight from Israel and a great place to live, work and play.

For more information, visit carobgardens.com or email info@drl-re.com