Why Cyprus Property Buyers Will See Energy Class A on Every Shortlist from June 2026

Energy Class A becomes the new baseline for Cyprus property buyers

If you are shopping for Cyprus property in 2026, expect energy efficiency to be on the front page of every shortlist. BNO Developments, a Cyprus specialist that works with international buyers, relocation clients and investors, has announced that Energy Class A new-builds will become the default standard for the shortlists it prepares — starting 24 June 2026.

That move is more than a marketing tweak. In our analysis, it is a clear signal that energy performance has shifted from a sales feature to a long-term value consideration for buyers and lenders. The decision matters for anyone who plans to buy, rent out or resell new homes on the island.

What BNO actually said

• BNO Developments will lead its recommended shortlists with Energy Class A-rated properties for new-build homes across Cyprus.
• The policy comes into effect on 24 June 2026 and is a formalisation of an approach BNO advisers have followed informally for years.
• The company is clear this is guidance, not a ban: clients determined to purchase older projects will still receive support.
• BNO says Class A ratings are now an important consideration for both buyers and lenders and that homes with higher ratings are better positioned to retain value over time.

As Laura Papadopoulou, BNO’s Paphos advisor, put it: "A cheap home with a poor energy rating isn't a bargain. It's a problem you inherit at resale. I'd rather have the awkward conversation now than watch a client struggle to sell in five years." That straight talk is the rare kind of advice buyers need.

Why this move matters for buyers and investors

There are three practical reasons to pay attention.

1. Resale liquidity and pricing

• BNO argues that Class A homes have stronger long-term resale potential. That matters for investors and owner-occupiers who may sell in a five- to ten-year horizon.
• A property with a low energy rating can be harder to market, because running costs and upgrade needs are visible to future buyers.

2. Financing and lender appetite

• The firm highlights that energy performance is an increasing factor in lending decisions. Lenders are more cautious about properties with higher projected running costs because those affect borrowers' net disposable income.
• For buyers seeking mortgages, an Energy Class A certificate may improve the chances of a smooth approval process and comparably favourable lending terms.

3. Operating costs and tenant demand

• Higher energy performance typically reduces heating, cooling and hot water bills. For buy-to-let landlords, that improves net yields and tenant demand.
• Tenants, especially relocating professionals and international families, expect modern standards of comfort and predictable running costs.

What does Energy Class A mean in practice?

Energy classes are based on a building’s energy performance certificate (EPC) and reflect how much energy is needed for heating, cooling, lighting and hot water. While the EPC framework varies by jurisdiction, Class A indicates one of the best energy performances available for new homes in Cyprus.

In practical terms, Class A new-build attributes often include:

• High levels of thermal insulation in walls, roofs and floors
• High-performance windows and glazing with low U-values
• Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery or efficient HVAC systems
• On-site renewable generation such as solar PV for hot water and electricity
• Smart meters and thermostatic controls for efficient consumption

These features reduce energy demand and make actual running costs closer to the developer’s projections.

How developers will respond — and what buyers should watch for

Developers already compete on finishing standards and layouts. Expect energy performance to become a competitive axis as well. But buyers need to be discerning.

What to expect from developers:

• More projects marketed with Energy Class A badges
• Technical specs in sales brochures showing insulation, window types, and renewable systems
• Increased use of certification, performance testing and third-party validators

What buyers should verify before committing:

• Ask for the building's official EPC or the draft certificate from the developer.
• Request detailed specs: U-values for walls/roof/windows, HVAC model and efficiency ratings, solar PV capacity, battery storage if any.
• Confirm whether performance claims are for the design stage or certified in-use performance testing.
• Ask about warranties and maintenance obligations for mechanical systems.

Checklist for international buyers and expats

Buying overseas adds layers of complexity. Here are practical steps we recommend:

• Confirm the EPC rating is official and current, not just a marketing summary.
• Request a breakdown of estimated annual energy costs and the assumptions used.
• Check if homeowners’ association fees include maintenance for shared energy systems like heat pumps or communal solar.
• Discuss financing options with lenders who operate in Cyprus and ask whether they consider energy ratings when underwriting.
• Factor energy performance into your resale scenario: higher initial price for Class A may be offset by better marketability and lower bills.

Risks and caveats buyers should not ignore

Energy Class A is useful, but it is not a guarantee.