Bargain hunt? Cyprus property searches on the up

51.04 per cent of locations rose in search activity in March, according to the portal. The Portuguese Island of Madeira proved particularly popular, with searches rising 105 per cent month on month.

Turkey has risen to 11th most popular destination, replacing Germany, while Australian property searches fell as buyers’ thoughts turned to European getaways. Interest in the UAE also increased, with the emirates pushing South Africa outside of the top 20 destinations.

Shameem Golamy, Head of Rightmove Overseas, commented: “March saw a record 5.4 million searches conducted on Rightmove Overseas, cementing Rightmove as the website of choice for overseas property hunters. The recent news coverage of the economic woes in Cyprus led to an increase of searches for the Eastern Mediterranean island, overtaking Ireland as our 7th most popular destination.

“Non euro destinations such as Turkey, Bulgaria and India have all seen increases in searches, as users explore options outside the established European property hotspots

“Traditional relocation destinations such as Australia, New Zealand and South Africa all fell in activity and emigration thoughts turn to summer holidays. Other destinations to see a decrease in activity are ski destinations such as Austria and Switzerland, as the snow melts and the ski season ends.”