18.05.2026
Types of Property in Greece: A Guide to Buying and Ownership
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Practical insights and inspiration for buying and owning a home in Greece. Our articles cover everything from regional guides and market trends to legal tips, tax updates and Greek lifestyle and culture. Whether you are just exploring the idea or already own a property, our blog is written to help you make informed decisions and get the most out of life in Greece.
18.05.2026
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18.05.2026
Yes, and a growing number of international professionals are proving it: they are choosing Thessaloniki as their European base, drawn by its rare combination of cultural richness, affordability, and Mediterranean lifestyle. As Greece's second-largest city, Thessaloniki offers significantly lower living costs compared to many major European cities, while still providing a high quality of life, strong urban character, and easy access to the sea.
17.05.2026
If you’re searching for your dream home in Greece, you’ve probably already run into the question: should I buy an existing home in Greece, or a new, off-plan home? Many buyers are specifically looking for off-plan houses in Greece in the best locations in Greece to maximize their investment and lifestyle benefits, with off-plan apartments and villas also being popular choices among buyers. Off-plan property investment refers to purchasing real estate before construction is completed, allowing buyers to secure a unit at lower pre-construction prices and benefit from potential capital appreciation. Many investors choose to invest in off-plan properties in Greece for both lifestyle and financial benefits, such as flexible payment plans and the potential for rental income.
First things first, let’s define off-plan homes and discover the unique opportunities they offer in Greece. The Greek property market continues to attract international investors seeking geographic diversification, with a growing number of off-plan developments available. Recent data from market reports shows a steady increase in off-plan property purchases among overseas buyers, with data analysis highlighting this upward trend. Off-plan developments in Greece typically offer modern specifications and warranties, making them especially attractive to international investors looking for both quality and security in their property investments.
15.05.2026
Buying a house in Greece comes with many things people already expect: sunshine, sea views, olive trees, village squares, and terraces that seem specifically designed for “just one more coffee.” But the buying process itself may also include a few details that feel different if you are used to purchasing property elsewhere. The Greek real estate process has its own rhythm, local habits, and practical steps. Some are legal. Some are technical. Some are simply part of life in Greece.
Here are 10 things you may find a bit strange when buying a house in Greece.
14.05.2026
Lefkada is connected to mainland Greece by a floating bridge near Lefkada Town, at the narrow Lefkada Canal. This road connection is one of the island’s most practical advantages, as visitors and property owners can reach Lefkada by car without taking a ferry. The bridge opens at scheduled times to allow boats to pass through the canal. For drivers, this can occasionally mean a short wait, especially during the summer season, so it is wise to allow a little extra time when arriving on or leaving the island. This connection makes Lefkada different from many other Greek island destinations. While islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, Corfu, and Crete require either a ferry or a flight, Lefkada can be reached directly by road from mainland Greece.
14.05.2026
For many people who own, or plan to buy, a home in Greece, the journey is part of the experience. Some fly directly to Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion, or Chania. Others prefer slower travel, combining trains, ferries, buses, and regional routes across Europe. Until now, however, planning a cross-border trip by train has often required patience, several booking platforms, and a healthy tolerance for uncertainty. A new proposal from the European Commission aims to make that process much simpler. The plan introduces a more unified system for booking cross-border journeys across Europe, especially train journeys involving more than one operator. The goal is clear: travellers should be able to search, compare, and book a complete journey through one platform, even when different transport companies are involved. For international buyers, second-home owners, and regular visitors to Greece, this could become an important step towards easier, more flexible travel across Europe.
13.05.2026
A full-service Greek real estate company handles the property search, the legal work, and the support after purchase in one place, so international buyers don't have to hire and coordinate separate agents, lawyers, and administrators. For anyone buying from abroad, that removes the hardest part of the process: navigating Greek property law in a language and a system they don't know. This guide explains what a full-service company does, why it matters for international buyers, and how it works in practice at Elxis.
13.05.2026
Selling a property in Greece can feel simple at first. You decide to sell, find an agent, list the home, and wait for the right buyer. In reality, a successful sale depends on much more than putting a property online. Today’s buyers compare several homes before making a decision. Their first impression often starts online, and their expectations are higher than ever. Good photos, clear information, easy access for viewings, realistic pricing, and proper legal preparation all play a role in how smoothly a sale moves forward. That’s why we’re hosting a free webinar focused on what property owners need to know before selling their home in Greece: from market positioning and pricing to documentation, compliance, and common delays.
13.05.2026
“I need to be a Greek citizen to buy a home in Greece, right?” “Don't I need a Greek bank account to buy a home in Greece?” “I signed a Private Purchase Agreement... does that mean I own the house now?” In this article, we present the most common misconceptions we hear from clients. Keep in mind, this is perfectly normal if you're buying a home in Greece for the first time!
12.05.2026
I want to buy a home in Greece, but I don’t know anything about the process. Who will I work with when buying a home in Greece? If I don’t speak Greek, will someone help me with the documents? Do I need a lawyer, a real estate agent, or an engineer? Which of these contacts do I need to have in Greece before I start the process of buying a home?
When buying property in Greece, you will typically work with a real estate agent, a buyer’s lawyer, who is a key participant in drawing up and signing the purchase deed in collaboration with the notary, and a notary. The notary office is the expert entity for notarial acts and legal services related to property transactions, including property conveyancing, document formalization, and legal consultancy, as well as notarial acts and legal services for documents intended for use abroad, addressing cross-border requirements such as translations and legalization. The office serves as the professional space where legal and notarial services are conducted, such as signing, verification, and consultations. Understanding all the costs involved, such as notary fees, transfer taxes, and legal fees, is crucial to avoid surprises and ensure a smooth transaction. These professionals are essential for both individuals and businesses looking to invest in Greek real estate.
Buyers, whether private individuals or commercial entities, often require guidance to navigate the Greek notary system, understand the legal framework, and ensure all necessary documents and legal requirements are met. Greece is a popular destination for international clients, including those seeking a golden visa through real estate investment. This is especially important for international clients who may not be familiar with the local language or the digital systems now supporting notarial acts in Greece. The contract for property transactions is always drafted in Greek, so a translator is required for non-Greek speakers. The process and role of notaries can differ from those in other countries, so expert guidance is highly recommended. Notaries in Greece also provide services related to wills, which are important for estate planning and succession.
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