The cost of moving your money
If you hold pounds, shekels, dollars, roubles, francs or złoty, you will lose a percentage converting into euros. It is rarely quoted as a fee and it is usually the least visible line on the whole purchase.
Where the cost hides
Most providers advertise no commission and take their margin in the exchange rate itself. The difference between the mid-market rate and the rate you are given is the cost. On a property purchase it is measured in thousands, not tens.
Typical spreads
| Route | Typical spread |
|---|---|
| A high street bank | 2.50% – 4% |
| A specialist transfer broker | 0.40% – 0.70% |
The calculator converts using the European Central Bank daily reference rate and applies these bands on top. The bands are typical, not a quote: actual spreads vary by provider, amount and day. The ECB no longer publishes a rouble rate, so rouble figures are indicative.
Forward contracts
An off-plan purchase can run for two years across several stage payments. A forward contract fixes the rate for a future payment, which removes the risk of the rate moving against you between now and completion. It also removes the chance of it moving in your favour. Whether that trade is worth making depends on how much of your budget is discretionary.
How we make money here
We show the bank figure and the broker figure side by side, and we earn a referral fee if you use the transfer partner we link to. We show you the bank number precisely so you can judge the comparison for yourself. The referral does not change any figure on this site.
This is an estimate for general information. It is not legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm every figure with a qualified Cypriot advocate and the Tax Department before signing anything.
Cyprus Property Cost