Both EU and non-EU citizens may purchase property anywhere in Greece with the exception of a few designated areas near the borders. Since 1991 when Greece opened up to foreign buyers there has been a steady influx of foreign investors, some buying up land and houses to relocate to Greece while others are buying holiday homes. The last five years have seen a boom in property prices and some of the islands in particular are becoming inundated with new buildings and real estate offices. Shop around and compare prices.

You will need to appoint a lawyer ('dikigoros') in accordance with Greek law to make a property purchase. The lawyer conducts the title search at the relevant land registry.

A civil engineer ('politikos michanikos') may be hired to review a specific plot and to ensure that boundaries are within the description in a title document. They can also be consulted regarding specific building restrictions in place in your chosen area.

A sales document must be drafted and executed by a public notary. According to Greek law, the purchase contract is signed by the buyer and the seller in the presence of:

- A Notary Public
- A lawyer appointed by the buyer
- A lawyer appointed by the seller
- You can appoint power of attorney to your lawyer for contract signing and payments

Open a Greek bank account for transferring funds.

Additional costs to the buyer are : Transfer tax 11% of the 'published value' assessed by the tax office (which is usually a good deal lower than the actual cost), lawyers fees 1-2%, other expenses approx 1% for notary fees and land registry.

Annual taxes are payable in Greece on properties owned over the value of 200,000 Euros. The valuation of properties is carried out by the government which provides published values, announced for every type of property.