AN OVERSEAS project, which is attracting buyers from the South East, has been declared the best Cypriot development of 2001 by a panel of international judges. Aphrodite Hills, near Paphos, was also awarded five-star status at the Mercedes Benz International Property Awards ceremony.

Graeme Grant, managing director of Richmond-based Premier Resorts (Mediterranean), who are sales and marketing consultants to the Lanitis Development resort, said: "The accolade of five stars is most encouraging and a true testament to the planning, design and vision of the Lanitis family over the past 20 years."

KENT Reliance, the only building society based in Kent, has announced a review of the branch and agents network. Greater emphasis will be placed upon locations where demand exists.

The opportunity to develop new branches and offices, some in conjunction with third parties, will be explored and it is likely new offices will open during the next 12 months. Under-utilised offices will be closed to ensure maximum value can be delivered to the majority of members.

In the first phase of re-organisation, the Ashford branch will close early in 2002 but is expected to be replaced by an agency arrangement. The society hopes to be able to re-deploy staff.

SELLING Farm Cottage at Selling, formerly part of the Duchy of Cornwall's Estate, is on the market with Regal Estates Elliott & Goddard. The property has been refurbished recently by the present owners, providing spacious accommodation over two floors, with elevations of red brick, weather boarding and clay tiles under a slate roof.

Accommodation includes four double bedrooms - the master with an en-suite bathroom - dining room, large dual aspect lounge, farmhouse-style kitchen, study and utility room.

The grounds extend to all four sides of the house with parking for several cars. There is also a brick-built outbuilding which can be adapted for a number of uses. For further details, including price, contact Regal Estates on 01227 763888.

COUNTRYSIDE Properties, developers of Queen Charlotte's Place, at West Malling, has won the What House? housebuilder of the year award. Judges said Countryside had made "an outstanding contribution" to housebuilding across all sectors of the market.

Post Office Square, Honeygrove's development of apartments and penthouses in Tunbridge Wells, won the award for best apartment. Kent builder, Ward Homes, gained a silver for the best retirement development - the Castle Village, Berkhamstead, scheme - while PPH, of Sevenoaks, took a bronze for best small housebuilder.