Those buying overseas property should ensure they carry out sufficient research before committing their funds and signing on the dotted line, it has been stated.

Chief executive of the Association of International Property Professionals Paul Owen issued such advice following the case of a British couple who lost land they had bought in a property dispute in northern Cyprus.

The case saw a court rule that a Greek Cypriot man who was forced to leave when Turkey invaded and divided the island in 1974 is the true owner of the plot.

While the legal situation concerning northern Cyprus is "an extreme example", any overseas property purchase should be treated carefully, Mr Owen said.

He stated: "It serves as a timely reminder to anybody that, no matter where you’re buying, you really need to do your homework and get independent legal advice."

The two halves of Cyprus have recently been holding talks about possible reunification of the island.

Visit Rightmove Overseas for the best selection of overseas property. Stop dreaming, start searching!