Buying guide - Greece Sotheby's International Realty (2024)

Buying a property through our company is a simple and straightforward process.

Step 1: Market Research

We will help you select the best properties and draw up a shortlist of those you wish to view. Α zoom call is our preferred way of interaction as we can walk you through the property either by a photo gallery and floor plans or by a virtual 3D tour, where available.

Step 2: Viewings

We work around your schedule and we are able to organize a significant number of viewings on short notice, usually within 48 hours. Our viewings can also be arranged virtually.

Step 3: Offer and Negotiation

We will be acting as mediators between you and the seller making sure that a deal is reached under clear terms.

Step 4: Letter of Intent

Once a deal is reached we prepare a non-commital document in the form of a Letter of Intent (L.O.I) signed by both parties outlining the terms of the deal. The L.O.I allows a 30 day period for Due Diligence to be carried out whilst at the same the Seller is prevented from engaging with another buyer.

Step 5: Lawyer & Due Diligence

You will need to establish legal representation in Greece directly or through your own home country lawyer. Your appointed Greek lawyer will coordinate the Due Diligence. A significant number of international law firms have their offices in Athens and provide quality services.

Step 6 : Notarial Deed and Completion

If the outcome of the Due Diligence is successful and you wish to proceed with the sale, your Greek lawyer will appoint a Notary Public. The Notary Public will be responsible for the preparation of the Sales Contract, documentation collection and execution. It usually takes between four to six weeks to execute a Sales Contract once Due Diligence is completed. Physical presence is not required as both parties can instruct their lawyers to sign on their behalf.

Step 7 : Closing Costs

The costs for the purchase of a property in Greece are 3,09% transfer tax, 1,2% lawyers fees, 1,2% notary public and 3% estate agent fees. Professional fees are subject to 24% VAT. The cost of a surveyor’s report on a property starts from about €5,000.

Step 8 : Golden Visa

If you are a non-EU citizen you are eligible for the Greek Golden VISA Program that allows yourself and your family an indefinite stay in Greece, as long as you are the owner of the property you have purchased, along with the benefit of unrestricted travel within the Schengen zone.

© 2024 Greece Sotheby's International Realty, Real Estate Agents in Greece

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Buying guide - Greece Sotheby's International Realty (2024)

FAQs

Which site is best for buying property in Greece? ›

Top Real Estate Websites in Greece Ranking Analysis for June 2024. spitogatos.gr ranked number 1 and is the most visited Real Estate website in Greece in June 2024, followed by tospitimou.gr as the runner up, and plot.gr ranking at 3rd place as the leaders of the Real Estate websites in Greece.

Is it worth buying property in Greece? ›

Greece has experienced positive economic growth, making it a more stable and secure investment option than in some parts of Europe. As the country continues to recover from economic challenges, investors can expect property values to appreciate over time.

Which is the best Greek island to buy property? ›

Best places to buy property in Greece
  • Corfu. A mega popular destination for UK expats, the island of Corfu has a UNESCO heritage old town, beautiful sandy bays and lively tourist areas.
  • Kefalonia. ...
  • Zakynthos/Zante. ...
  • Crete. ...
  • Rhodes. ...
  • Peloponnese. ...
  • Athens.

Can you negotiate real estate prices in Greece? ›

The buyer has an opportunity to bargain with the property owner (in Greece, bargaining is acceptable always and everywhere) which confirms our honesty and trustworthiness.

Are property prices falling in Greece? ›

Property prices in this country remain affordable but are increasing every year: value of the Greek realty is not falling anytime soon. From this article, you'll get to know about the highest, lowest and median prices of buying a property in the most popular regions of Greece.

How much tax do you pay when buying a house in Greece? ›

In Greece, the buyer pays a property transfer tax upon the property transfer. The tax rate is 3.09%. The tax is applied on the higher between the market and the property's objective value.

What to know before buying a house in Greece? ›

Buying a house in Greece summarized
  • Get a bank account.
  • Get a Tax Registration Number (AFM)
  • Hire a lawyer.
  • Pay the fees (notary fee, a stamp duty, and the registration fee)
  • Approve transaction at the notary.
  • Register the property in the local Land Registry.
Jan 24, 2023

How long can I stay in Greece if I buy a house? ›

Once you buy a property you must wait 5 years and then submit your application to the Greek Migration Agency in order to obtain permanent residency. Otherwise, you will not be able to obtain permanent residency.

Which is the prettiest Greek island? ›

Our short guide to six of the most stunning Greek islands will help you decide which island is right for you.
  • 1 – Santorini. Known for its iconic blue dome churches and breathtaking sea views, Santorini is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece. ...
  • 2 – Corfu. ...
  • 3 – Zante. ...
  • 4 – Crete. ...
  • 5 – Rhodes. ...
  • 6 – Mykonos.

What is the best Greek island to retire on? ›

Corfu is a prime retirement spot due to its warm climate, affordable living costs, and beautiful landscapes. Its welcoming community and quality healthcare make settling in easy. The island offers a blend of relaxation and cultural exploration, with stunning beaches and rich history.

What is the nicest part of Greece to live? ›

Best Places in Greece for Expats
  • Thessaloniki.
  • Athens.
  • Rhodes.
  • Corfu.
  • Crete.
Jan 24, 2024

How much are closing costs in Greece? ›

Step 7 : Closing Costs

The costs for the purchase of a property in Greece are 3,09% transfer tax, 1,2% lawyers fees, 1,2% notary public and 3% estate agent fees. Professional fees are subject to 24% VAT.

Is it OK to haggle in Greece? ›

In fact, locals often haggle to find the best deal, so don't be afraid to jump in and try doing it yourself! The goal is to remain polite and respectful and if it isn't possible for them to give you the price you are asking for, take the cue and don't push.

What is the average price for a house in Greece? ›

The Greece housing market is most competitive. The median sale price of a home in Greece was $245K last. The median sale price per square foot in Greece is ¤171, up 26.7% since last year.…

How to buy a property in Greece? ›

How to buy a property in Greece
  1. Get your AFM number. Before buying property in Greece, you will need to get an AFM number. ...
  2. Hire a property lawyer. ...
  3. Decide how you will pay for your property in Greece. ...
  4. Make an offer on a property. ...
  5. Protect your budget from currency exchange rates. ...
  6. Decide if you need a visa.

What is the best classified site in Greece? ›

Most Visited Classifieds Websites in Greece
RankWebsiteRank Change
1freelist.gr=
2shoppster.rs=
3kavosreikalai.lt=
4meteo.lt10
1 more row

What is the best Greek marketplace? ›

skroutz.gr ranked number 1 and is the most visited Marketplace website in Greece in June 2024, followed by public.gr as the runner up, and temu.com ranking at 3rd place as the leaders of the Marketplace websites in Greece.

Can US citizens buy property in Greece? ›

No, there are no residency requirements for buying property in Greece. Americans can buy property without needing to live in Greece.

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