Real estate agents are the same as the builders, right? Can they also help with maintenance and upkeep? Are agents in Greece pushy salespeople and just interested in making a sale? In this article, we share the most common misconceptions about real estate agents in Greece, and the reality for each of them.
1. Real Estate Agents Are Also the Builder
This is a very common misconception. Real estate agents in Greece specialize in facilitating property transactions, but they are not involved in the construction or development of properties. Builders and developers manage the actual creation and construction of new buildings or developments. While an agent might have connections with developers or offer insights into new projects, they do not handle the construction process themselves. Read more about some of the best builders and developers in Greece here.
2. Real Estate Agents Are All Pushy/Sly Salespeople
It’s a common stereotype that real estate agents are pushy, but this is in many cases not true. While some agents may have aggressive sales tactics, many are ethical, patient, and focused on creating long-term relationships rather than quick sales. When you inquire with different agents in Greece, you’ll be able to sense their work ethic and values for yourself. A good way to test them is to ask for a non-comittal consultation. In general, it’s always a good idea to find an agent you trust and who listens to your needs.
3. Both Buyers and Sellers of a Home in Greece Have Their Own Agent
In many countries, it’s common for both buyers and sellers to have their own agent, but in Greece, this is not always the case. Greek law allows real estate agents to represent both parties in a transaction, acting as mediators to ensure that both the buyer’s and seller’s interests are respected.
4. Real Estate Agents in Greece All Have the Same Fee
Real estate agent fees in Greece can change depending on the agency, location, and type of property. Fees are usually based on a percentage of the property’s sale price, typically ranging from 2-4% (plus VAT). Not all agents in Greece provide the same level of service, and in many cases, a higher fee can mean a better experience for you as a buyer or seller.
Larger agencies may generally have a fixed fee structure, while smaller or independent agents may offer more flexibility. It’s important to discuss fees upfront with your agent. Keep in mind that different agents may also offer additional services, such as property valuation or legal handling, which could affect the overall costs.
Buying a home is something you likely will do only once or twice in your lifetime, so make sure to find an agent that is the best fit for you, and not necessarily so because of their lower fee.
5. Real Estate Agents in Greece Can Help Me With Legal Handling
Real estate agents in Greece are experts when it comes to property transactions, but they are usually not qualified to provide legal advice. While they can guide you through the buying or selling process, it’s important to work with a lawyer to handle legal matters such as contract drafting, verifying property titles, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. The best real estate offices in Greece have both great real estate agents and lawyers in-house, so you get the best one-stop shop service.
6. Real Estate Agents in Greece Only Focus on a Specific Area
While some real estate agents in Greece may choose to specialize in a particular area or region, many agents have the ability to work across a broad number of locations. Larger agencies often have agents who cover multiple cities or islands, and they maintain strong networks with other professionals, allowing them to help clients looking for properties anywhere in Greece. However, if you have a specific area in mind, it’s always a good idea to choose an agent with local expertise.
7. Real Estate Agents in Greece Can Help Me with Maintenance and Upkeep
Real estate agents are primarily focused on the buying and selling. While they may offer recommendations for trusted service providers, such as contractors or maintenance companies, they do not typically manage or handle maintenance and upkeep directly. If you require ongoing property management services, we advise hiring a separate property manager who specializes in maintenance and tenant management.
8. Real Estate Agents in Greece Are Great at Furniture and Design Choices
Though some real estate agents in Greece may have a personal interest in design, this isn’t the norm. The core role of real estate agents in Greece is in guiding property transactions, not offering interior design advice. If you’re looking for help with furniture selection or designing a space, it’s best to consult a professional interior designer who can create a custom design tailored to your tastes and needs. If you need inspiration, check out the designers we’ve partnered with here.
9. Real Estate Agents in Greece Don’t Have a Life Outside of Selling Homes
While real estate agents in Greece are dedicated professionals, they, like anyone else, have personal lives, hobbies, and passions outside of their work. Many agents enjoy spending time with family, traveling, or pursuing various interests such as fitness, art, or photography. This is especially true in Greece, which is known for its natural beauty.
For example, on the Elxis sales team in Crete, Laura is the perfect example of this balance. During working hours, she guides clients through homes all over Crete, both in picturesque mountain villages and seaside towns.
In her free time, Laura enjoys outdoor activities and hiking with her husband and dog. On the side, she is an underwater and adventure photographer for couples. Laura has also been snowboarding since she was about 7, having learned from her father, an expert snowboard instructor.
10. Real Estate Agents in Greece Only Speak Greek
It’s common for most real estate agents in Greece to speak English. Only certain real estate companies will speak languages other than Greek and English. At Elxis – At Home in Greece, you have access to native English, Dutch, and German speakers to answer all inquiries in your language.
You can find a full breakdown of the types of real estate offices in Greece here.
11. Real Estate Agents in Greece are Accountants
Real estate agents in Greece typically do not specialize in tax and accounting services. Some offices, like Elxis – At Home in Greece, will help you get an AFM (Greek Τax Number). This task, however, is not completed by the agents themselves.
How Do I Get a Greek Tax Number?
If you have given an Elxis lawyer power of attorney, we can apply for the tax number on your behalf through our network of verified accountants. In this case, you provide us with the necessary documents, and we will update you when the process is complete.
You will also need an accountant when you own a home in Greece.
