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Greece – Buying Property

Greece is one of Europe’s most accessible property markets for overseas buyers — the vast majority of the country is open to foreign purchasers without restriction, and EU nationals enjoy exactly the same buying rights as Greek citizens. Non-EU buyers encounter permit requirements only in specific designated border zones. With sustained price growth, robust rental demand, and a Golden Visa programme that remains among the most attainable on the continent, Greece appeals strongly to both lifestyle purchasers and investment-focused buyers alike.

Key facts at a glance
Item Details
Foreign ownership rights Freely permitted across most of Greece; border-zone permit required for non-EU buyers (as of 2025)
Property transfer tax 3.09% of assessed property value (as of 2025; payable before signing the final deed)
Annual property tax (ENFIA) Calculated per m² based on location, age, size; approx. €2–€16.20/m² basic rate (as of 2025)
Average national price per m² Approx. €2,569/m² nationally; €3,270/m² in the Aegean Islands (as of 2025)
Golden Visa minimum investment €800,000 in Athens/Thessaloniki/Mykonos/Santorini; €400,000 in most other areas (as of September 2024)
Rental income tax Progressive: 15% up to €12,000; 35% €12,001–€35,000; 45% above €35,000 (as of 2025)

Can foreign nationals legally buy and own property in Greece?

Both EU and non-EU nationals are legally entitled to purchase property in Greece and receive the same rights and protections afforded to Greek citizens. This places Greece among the most open real estate markets in Europe — broadly comparable to Portugal or Spain, where overseas buyers similarly encounter few structural obstacles to ownership.

Non-EU nationals — whether individuals or legal entities — are prohibited under Articles 25 and 26 of Law 1892/1990, as amended, from purchasing land or acquiring real property rights in areas designated as border regions or military zones without prior approval from the Greek State. These restricted zones include the East Aegean, the Dodecanese Islands, parts of northern Greece, Crete, and Rhodes. In such areas, non-EU citizens must apply to the Prefecture Council for a buying and selling licence, which is issued after a security background check has been completed.

This permit requirement exists for reasons of national security, reflecting Greece’s geographic proximity to non-EU nations. In practice, approval is generally granted unless significant security concerns arise. EU citizens who wish to purchase within a border zone must obtain a temporary residence permit — commonly referred to as a Blue Card — by submitting an application either in person or via a lawyer at the local police station. This is a standard requirement that applies to all EU nationals in these circumstances.

Throughout the overwhelming majority of Greece — including Athens, Thessaloniki, the Peloponnese, and highly sought-after islands such as Crete, Mykonos, and Santorini — there are no nationality-based buying restrictions, and all foreign nationals may purchase freely. Regardless of nationality, every buyer must obtain a Greek Tax Number (AFM) before completing any transaction. You can verify current ownership rules through the Hellenic Cadastre (Ktimatologio) and the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE).

What are average property prices in Greece, and how do they vary by region?

As of 2025, the average asking price for property across Greece stands at approximately €2,569 per square metre. This translates to around €513,800 for an average-sized house and roughly €192,700 for an average apartment. That said, prices differ dramatically depending on location, and these national averages should be treated as broad reference points rather than precise benchmarks.


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The Aegean Islands represent the most expensive region in Greece, where property averages €3,270 per square metre in 2025. A 200 m² home in this region costs in the region of €654,000, while a 75 m² apartment comes in at around €245,000. In Attica — the region encompassing Athens — an average-sized house commands approximately €605,000, and a 75 m² apartment around €227,000.

Data from Q2 2024 show that average residential sale prices across Greece ranged from €566 per square metre at the lower end to €3,750 per square metre at the upper end. Southern Athens recorded the highest average at €3,750/m², while the inland region of Arcadia registered the lowest at €566/m². This extraordinary range reflects just how significant a role location plays in determining value — whether you are looking at a prime city-centre neighbourhood or a remote rural area.

Thessaly is the most affordable region for property buyers in Greece, averaging €1,251 per m² — equivalent to roughly €94,000 for a typical apartment and €250,000 for an average house. Other budget-friendly areas include Kastoria, Kozani, Karditsa, Florina, and Kilkis, which consistently rank among the most economical places to buy anywhere in the country. For up-to-date listing prices, consult reputable Greek property portals such as Spitogatos.

Athens remains the country’s most active property market. The capital blends a rich historical heritage with a vibrant modern lifestyle, offering everything from ancient cultural landmarks to world-class restaurants and thriving business districts. The range of available property spans historic apartments in the Plaka neighbourhood to sleek contemporary homes in affluent districts like Kolonaki. Premium addresses command notable prices: Kolonaki’s prime apartments trade at €6,000+/m², Makrygianni at €3,800–4,000/m², and the coastal suburbs of the Athenian Riviera — including Glyfada, Voula, and Vouliagmeni — range from €5,000 to €7,300/m².

Thessaloniki is gaining traction as a compelling alternative to Athens. As Greece’s second city, it boasts well-developed infrastructure, five universities, international schools, and an expanding coworking scene, making it particularly appealing to families and working professionals. Entry prices are lower than in the capital, yet the city’s growing tech sector and academic community provide solid long-term growth potential.

The islands attract a steady stream of lifestyle and holiday-home buyers. Mykonos and Santorini continue to dominate the luxury segment, while Crete and Rhodes offer more year-round stability and consistent rental income. Crete in particular draws buyers seeking a combination of good infrastructure, accessible beaches, and a wider spread of price points compared to the Cyclades.

The Ionian Islands — Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos among them — appeal to buyers drawn to lush, verdant landscapes alongside the quintessential Greek island atmosphere. Strong charter flight connections from cities across Europe make these islands viable for holiday rental operations.

Are there any emerging or up-and-coming areas worth considering in Greece?

Buyers seeking value should look closely at the Peloponnese, where prices remain 30–50% below those in prime locations, yet improving infrastructure and rising visitor numbers point to solid appreciation potential. Towns such as Nafplio, Kalamata, and the dramatic Mani peninsula have been drawing increasing interest from buyers who want an authentic Greek lifestyle without the price tag that comes with the islands.

Lesser-known islands including Samos, Folegandros, and Ikaria are emerging as genuine alternatives as travellers increasingly look beyond overcrowded hotspots. These destinations tend to offer stronger value per square metre while still benefiting from summer tourism revenues and steadily improving transport links.

The Ellinikon project — a landmark urban regeneration scheme on the Athens Riviera — is already taking shape and is widely expected to become a major economic engine for Greece in the coming years. The development is fundamentally transforming the southern Athens coastline, introducing residential towers, a large shopping complex, and entertainment facilities, significantly enhancing the appeal of real estate in the surrounding area. Coastal suburbs nearby are already experiencing heightened buyer interest as a result.

Within Thessaloniki, neighbourhoods situated close to the newly opened metro network are attracting buyers priced out of the city centre, and the broader Central Macedonia region continues to offer sound long-term value. University cities and regional hubs such as Patras, Heraklion, and Ioannina similarly offer affordable market entry with dependable rental demand from students and professionals.

According to the Bank of Greece, apartment prices in Q3 2025 rose year-on-year by 6.6% in Athens, 9.6% in Thessaloniki, 8.9% in other cities, and 8.5% across other parts of Greece. For the full year 2024, prices increased by an average of 8.5%, 11.7%, 7.5%, and 10.9% in those same areas respectively. The Bank of Greece’s official indices represent the most authoritative tracking data available and can be accessed at bankofgreece.gr.

The dominant themes shaping the market over the past twelve months include heightened demand, rising prices, growing volumes of foreign investment, an expansion in short-term rentals, and increasing attention to sustainability and energy efficiency. The total value of real estate transactions across Greece exceeded €4 billion in 2024.

Net inflows from real estate purchases by non-residents peaked in 2024, accounting for a significant proportion of total foreign direct investment. While H1 2025 still reflects substantial absolute volumes at €938 million, a year-on-year decline of 17.84% indicates that the earlier wave of elevated investment activity is transitioning toward a more stable — though still elevated — baseline of foreign participation.

In 2024, the Greek authorities introduced new restrictions on short-term rental registrations in several high-demand districts of Athens. From January 2025, short-term rentals are prohibited in areas including the Historical Centre, Koukaki, Plaka, Exarchia, Pangrati, Zappio, Mets, Neos Kosmos, Thisio, Petralona, Metaxourgio, and Votanikos, with violations subject to a minimum fine of €20,000. Anyone considering purchasing a property for short-term rental purposes should verify the regulatory status of the specific district before proceeding.

Remote working trends have strengthened demand for larger properties outside the urban core, and sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor in buying decisions: Greece is aligning its property standards with EU energy efficiency directives, and homes with strong energy performance ratings are commanding a growing price premium. The Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) publishes the latest official market statistics.

Is buying property in Greece a good investment?

In well-performing locations such as central Athens and Thessaloniki, rental yields of around 5–8% are achievable. High-profile tourist destinations including Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete can also generate yields in the 5–8% range through short-term letting, though new regulations have restricted this option in certain properties and zones. These figures compare favourably with many Western European markets, where compressed yields in major cities reflect the impact of high purchase prices.

The Hellenic Statistical Authority records that Greek house prices grew by 13.4% during 2023 and by a cumulative 71.6% between 2017 and 2024. The Attica housing market has seen sale prices rise by around 90% since 2017. This near-decade of sustained capital growth has materially strengthened the investment case for Greek property, though buyers should be mindful that past performance is not a reliable predictor of future results.

Profitable outcomes remain very achievable in the Greek market, but the nature of those returns has shifted — quick gains have given way to a more mature, income-focused model centred on rental yield. As of 2025, Greek property is more expensive than comparable real estate in Italy or Spain, but remains more accessible than equivalent assets in Portugal or France, giving Greece a competitive position within the Southern European landscape.

For buyers purchasing in a currency other than the euro, exchange rate movements introduce an additional layer of both risk and opportunity: all transactions are conducted in euros, meaning the effective cost in your home currency may shift considerably between offer acceptance and completion. Capital gains from property sales currently attract no tax, though a 15% capital gains tax is set to take effect from 1 January 2027 — a consideration worth factoring into any medium-term investment strategy. As always, seeking independent financial guidance from a qualified adviser with expertise in Greek taxation is strongly advisable before committing capital.

What types of property are commonly available to buy in Greece?

Apartments (διαμερίσματα) are the dominant property type in Greek cities. Athens, Thessaloniki, and other urban centres offer options ranging from compact studios and one-bedroom flats to expansive penthouse apartments with panoramic views. Many older apartment blocks — known as polykatoikia — date from the post-war era and may call for renovation work, while more recent developments come equipped with contemporary amenities and finishes.

Villas and detached houses are widespread on the islands and in coastal locations, spanning everything from modest holiday retreats to grand multi-bedroom villas featuring private pools and sea views. Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Corfu all have particularly buoyant villa markets. A considerable share of both domestic and international investment also flows into the development of new hotels, villa complexes, and Integrated Tourist Resorts across various parts of the country.

Traditional stone houses and village properties are scattered across the mainland and larger islands, with concentrations in areas such as the Mani peninsula, the Pelion, and Epirus. These properties frequently require restoration work but can offer remarkable character and outstanding value for money. Rural and agricultural land may be subject to additional planning constraints, particularly in areas near coastlines, forests, or archaeologically sensitive sites.

New-build developments are proliferating in Athens, Thessaloniki, and coastal resort areas, with developers regularly offering off-plan purchasing opportunities. Some properties carry missing or irregular building permits, which can complicate a purchase or delay future renovation plans — making thorough due diligence an absolute necessity. Land-only plots are also available for purchase, though these come with strict planning and building regulations that vary according to zone designation, coastal proximity, and ecological classification.

What is the typical step-by-step process for buying property in Greece?

Unlike markets such as Australia or the United States — where agents drive much of the process and contracts can exchange within days — purchasing property in Greece is notary-led and documentation-intensive, typically taking several weeks to a few months from offer to completion. Engaging a lawyer from the outset is strongly recommended at every stage.

  1. Obtain a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM). The AFM is a mandatory requirement for all non-residents acquiring real estate in Greece. The Tax Office issues it upon submission of your passport and birth certificate, either presented by you in person or lodged by a lawyer or accountant acting under power of attorney on your behalf.
  2. Open a Greek bank account. Opening a Greek bank account is advisable to streamline the transaction and ensure greater financial transparency. It also simplifies ongoing payments of taxes and property-related costs.
  3. Search for property and instruct a lawyer. Engage an independent lawyer to conduct comprehensive due diligence, covering ownership titles, outstanding debts or mortgages, building permits, and zoning compliance. Leading property portals such as Spitogatos are a useful starting point for your search.
  4. Make an offer and negotiate. Once an offer is accepted, a small reservation payment typically removes the property from the market while your lawyer commences checks. Always ensure payments go to an escrow or notary account rather than directly to a private individual.
  5. Carry out legal and title due diligence. Your lawyer should examine the land registry or cadastral records to verify ownership, identify any mortgages or liens, confirm planning permissions, and check that the property’s physical footprint corresponds to the approved plans. The energy performance certificate and building compliance documents should also be requested at this stage.
  6. Sign the preliminary contract (symvolaio proanagrafis). A preliminary or promissory agreement sets out the agreed conditions of the sale, the completion timeline, what is included, and the deposit amount. The deposit is typically 5–10% of the purchase price.
  7. Pay property transfer tax. The tax declaration must be submitted and the tax settled within three working days of filing the declaration, before the final notarial deed can be signed. The applicable transfer tax rate is typically 3.09% of the taxable property value.
  8. Sign the final deed before a Notary Public. At the notary’s office, the deed is read aloud in full, payment of all taxes is confirmed, and the formal transfer is recorded. This step can be completed remotely via a duly executed Power of Attorney if you cannot be present in person.
  9. Register the property at the Land Registry or Cadastre. Following the signing of the deed, the property must be formally registered at the Land Registry or Cadastre to officially complete the transfer of ownership into your name.
  10. Submit the E9 form and complete post-purchase steps. After completion, you are required to file a declaration of real estate information through the E9 form — a necessary step that enables the annual ENFIA tax assessment to be calculated. Transfer utilities and local service accounts into your name without delay.

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Greece, and how do I find a reputable one?

Engaging a Greek lawyer who specialises in real estate transactions is highly recommended. They will manage all legal aspects of the purchase, conduct thorough due diligence, and ensure the process runs smoothly. While using a lawyer is not strictly a statutory obligation for every part of the transaction, a notary is legally required for the final deed, and a specialist lawyer effectively serves as your indispensable guide and safeguard throughout the entire process. Unlike markets such as Australia, where a conveyancer may suffice for a straightforward purchase, the complexity of Greek documentation and the prevalence of title irregularities make specialist legal representation essential for foreign buyers.

Legal fees in Greece typically amount to 1–2% of the purchase price (as of 2025 — confirm current rates directly with your chosen lawyer before instructing). On a €300,000 property, this equates to €3,000–€6,000. For straightforward transactions, some lawyers quote a fixed fee; always agree the fee structure in writing before proceeding.

Your lawyer must hold valid membership of the appropriate regional bar association (Δικηγορικός Σύλλογος). The umbrella body for the Greek legal profession is the Plenary of Greek Bar Associations (Ολομέλεια Δικηγορικών Συλλόγων Ελλάδος), accessible at www.olome.gr. The Athens Bar Association can be found at www.dsa.gr. These directories allow you to confirm that a lawyer is properly licensed to practise. Recommendations from established expat communities or your country’s embassy in Athens are a reliable way to identify suitable candidates — and always instruct a lawyer who is entirely independent from the seller, developer, or real estate agent.

What are the most common pitfalls and problems expats encounter when buying property in Greece?

Title and cadastre complications. Land registration has not been fully completed in all areas of Greece, which can make establishing clear boundaries or confirming ownership more complicated than buyers might anticipate. Always commission a thorough title search through your lawyer before making any payment beyond the initial reservation deposit.

Unlicensed or missing building permits. A significant number of properties — particularly older rural homes and island properties — have missing, incomplete, or irregular building permits. This can delay or even derail a purchase, and may also create problems if you later wish to renovate. Your lawyer should confirm that all required permits are in order and that the property as built corresponds to the approved plans registered with the relevant planning authority.

Coastal and heritage restrictions. Properties situated near the coastline, within forested areas, or close to archaeological sites — such as in Crete or Santorini — frequently come with regulatory constraints that buyers may not be initially aware of. These rules can significantly limit what alterations, extensions, or uses of the property are permitted.

Undisclosed debts and encumbrances. Properties in Greece can carry inherited debts, mortgages, or liens that become the buyer’s responsibility upon transfer. Before proceeding, confirm that the property is registered with the land registry and is free of any encumbrances — including foreclosure actions, mortgages, or unpaid utility bills.

Short-term rental restrictions. The Golden Visa programme now stipulates that properties acquired under it may not be used for short-term letting arrangements such as Airbnb. Furthermore, Athens has banned new short-term rental licences in several central districts from January 2025. Always verify the regulatory position for any specific property before purchasing with rental income in mind.

Currency transfer risk. Buyers converting funds from non-euro currencies face the risk — and potential upside — of exchange rate movements between the time an offer is accepted and the date of completion. Using a specialist foreign exchange provider and locking in a rate through a forward contract can help manage this exposure.

Underestimating transaction costs. Once transfer taxes, notary fees, legal fees, and agent commissions are added together, total acquisition costs in Greece can feel substantial compared to some other markets. Budget approximately 7–10% above the agreed purchase price to cover all costs associated with the acquisition.

Can I buy property in Greece through a company, and is it worth doing?

Purchasing property through a corporate structure is entirely possible in Greece. The most commonly used vehicles are Greek private limited companies (IKE — Idiotiki Kefalaiouchiki Etaireia) or a societe anonyme (AE). Non-EU buyers sometimes also explore offshore holding structures, though these introduce additional legal complexity and increased regulatory scrutiny.

Potential advantages of corporate ownership include a simpler transfer mechanism — ownership can change hands by selling company shares rather than undertaking a full property conveyance — together with possible tax planning benefits on rental income and clearer succession planning arrangements. Some investors also find that a Greek company simplifies the management of multiple properties or commercial lettings. However, properties acquired under the Golden Visa programme are prohibited from being used for short-term letting, and corporate structures carry their own compliance obligations, including annual accounting, statutory filing, and auditing requirements.

Corporate ownership does not exempt the holder from ENFIA or other property taxes — companies are fully liable for these in the same way as individual owners. Greek rental income is subject to tax in Greece for non-residents regardless of where they are domiciled, and companies are taxed on a different basis from individuals — typically at the flat corporate income tax rate, which currently stands at 22% as of 2025 (check the AADE for the current applicable rate). The decision to acquire through a corporate structure should never be made without independent legal and tax guidance from a qualified professional with expertise in Greek law.

What taxes and ongoing costs should I budget for when owning property in Greece?

Property Transfer Tax (FMA). This tax is levied on buyers at a rate of 3% — subject to a minimal supplementary charge for the benefit of local authorities — applied to whichever is the higher of the objective assessed value or the agreed contractual price. In practice, the effective rate is commonly cited as approximately 3.09%. Payment must be made before the notarial deed of transfer is executed.

VAT on new builds. VAT at a rate of 24% is imposed on transfers of real rights in new, unoccupied buildings whose building permit was issued after 1 January 2006. However, a VAT suspension on new residential properties has been extended through 31 December 2026, meaning most new-build transactions currently attract the 3% transfer tax rather than 24% VAT. Always confirm the applicable tax regime with your lawyer at the time of purchase.

Annual property tax (ENFIA). ENFIA (Ενιαίος Φόρος Ιδιοκτησίας Ακινήτων) is the annual property tax levied on all property owners in Greece — both Greek nationals and foreigners — in respect of all properties held on 1 January of the relevant year. The principal tax rate is determined by the property’s location, size, and age, and ranges from €2 to €16.20 per m². Properties in high-demand locations such as central Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini typically attract higher rates. For individual owners, a supplementary tax applies when total property value exceeds €200,000, with an additional rate of 0.1–1.15% assessed on the excess.

Rental income tax. Rental income derived from Greek property is taxed on a progressive scale: income up to €12,000 is taxed at 15%, the portion between €12,001 and €35,000 at 35%, and any amount above €35,000 at 45%. A tax reform scheduled to take effect from 1 January 2026 introduces an intermediate 25% rate for the €12,001–€24,000 bracket, easing the burden for many smaller and medium-sized landlords.

Capital gains tax. Capital gains realised from the sale of property are currently not taxed. A 15% capital gains tax is set to apply from 1 January 2027. Buyers with an exit strategy in mind should factor this timeline into their planning.

Ongoing ownership costs. Local municipalities impose modest annual charges — often collected alongside electricity bills — to fund services including waste collection, street lighting, and local infrastructure maintenance. If you own an apartment within a shared building or complex, you will also be expected to contribute to a monthly or annual common area charge covering the upkeep of lifts, shared lighting, hallways, and gardens. These communal charges typically range from approximately €25–50 per month for a smaller apartment to €65–125 per month for a luxury development. All figures reflect the position as of 2025; verify current rates with the Greek tax authority (AADE).

What are the official sources I should consult when buying property in Greece?

  • Hellenic Cadastre (Ktimatologio) — the national land registry for title searches, boundary verification, and ownership records: www.ktimatologio.gr
  • Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) — the Greek tax authority; the principal resource for AFM registration, ENFIA, rental income tax, and all property-related tax matters: www.aade.gr
  • Bank of Greece — the authoritative source for residential property price indices, updated quarterly: www.bankofgreece.gr/en
  • Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) — official national statistics including building permits, construction activity, and demographic data: www.elstat.gr/en
  • Ministry of Digital Governance — oversees the Hellenic Cadastre and the digitalisation of property registration processes: mindigital.gr/en
  • Ministry of Migration and Asylum — handles Golden Visa (residency by investment) applications and immigration-related matters: migration.gov.gr/en
  • Notarial Council of Greece (Συμβολαιογραφικός Σύλλογος) — for locating a licensed notary public: www.notariat.gr
  • Plenary of Greek Bar Associations (Ολομέλεια Δικηγορικών Συλλόγων Ελλάδος) — for verifying a lawyer’s professional registration: www.olome.gr
  • Spitogatos Property Index — Greece’s leading property portal, offering live pricing data and extensive listings: www.spitogatos.gr/en

Frequently asked questions about buying property in Greece

Do I need to be a resident in Greece to buy property there?

No — Greece imposes no residency requirement on property buyers. You are free to purchase without living in the country. You will, however, need to obtain a Greek Tax Number (AFM), and opening a Greek bank account is strongly advisable to facilitate the transaction and handle ongoing payments.

Can buying property in Greece give me the right to live there?

Greece’s Golden Visa remains one of the few residency-by-investment programmes in Europe that grants permanent residency through a property purchase. The scheme operates on a tiered basis, offering investors the choice between acquiring property in prime locations at a higher threshold or undertaking specialist renovation projects at a reduced entry level. As of mid-2025, the minimum qualifying investment is €800,000 in high-demand areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini; €400,000 in other regions for properties exceeding 120 m²; or €250,000 for the conversion of commercial premises to residential use and the restoration of listed buildings.

Can I get a mortgage in Greece as a foreign national?

Foreign nationals are able to obtain mortgage financing in Greece, though the terms available differ depending on whether you are an EU or non-EU resident. EU residents can typically borrow 70–80% of the property’s value, while non-EU residents are generally limited to 50–65%, requiring a larger cash deposit. As of January 2026, the banks most accommodating to international buyers include Alpha Bank, the National Bank of Greece (NBG), and Eurobank, all of which operate dedicated international client desks.

How long does the buying process take in Greece?

Completion timelines typically range from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the volume and complexity of paperwork, whether the purchase involves land, and any title complications that emerge during due diligence. Border-zone permit applications and Golden Visa processing can extend this timeframe further. Preparing your documentation thoroughly and instructing a lawyer early in the process will help minimise unnecessary delays.

What are the total transaction costs when buying property in Greece?

As of 2025, buyers should expect to pay the following costs in addition to the agreed purchase price: transfer tax of approximately 3.09% of the taxable property value; notary fees typically in the range of 0.65–1%; legal fees typically amounting to 1–2% of the purchase price; and land registry or cadastre registration fees of approximately 0.5–0.7%. Where real estate agent fees are payable by the buyer under the agreed terms, these typically add a further 2–3%. In total, plan to budget approximately 7–10% above the purchase price to cover all acquisition costs.

Is it safe to buy property off-plan in Greece?

Off-plan purchases carry inherently higher risk than buying an established resale property. Always investigate the developer’s track record carefully, confirm that the building permit is current and valid, and have your lawyer verify that any reservation deposit is held in an escrow or notary account rather than transferred directly to the developer. Engaging your own independent lawyer — entirely separate from the seller’s or developer’s legal advisers — is essential, as they will protect your interests and ensure proper due diligence is carried out.

What is ENFIA and how much will I pay?

ENFIA is Greece’s annual unified property tax, applicable to all property owners — Greek nationals and foreigners alike — in respect of all properties held as of 1 January in the relevant tax year. The principal rate ranges from €2 to €16.20 per m², determined by the property’s location, dimensions, and age. Properties in sought-after markets such as central Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini typically attract the higher end of the scale. As of 2025, ENFIA may be settled in up to 12 equal monthly instalments, with payments generally commencing in March or April.

Do I need to declare my Greek property in my home country?

Greece has concluded Double Taxation Treaties with a large number of countries. Under these agreements, taxes paid in Greece on rental income or capital gains can generally be credited against tax liabilities in your country of residence. Nonetheless, you may still be required to report the income to your home country’s tax authorities even where double taxation relief applies. The rules vary considerably from one jurisdiction to another — consulting a qualified tax adviser with knowledge of both Greek tax law and the law of your home country is essential to understanding your full obligations.