Moving from The Netherlands to Greece - What’s it Like?

Every home in Greece is now meant to have its own digital file. It is called the Electronic Building Identity, or E-ID (Ηλεκτρονική Ταυτότητα Κτιρίου). The Electronic Building Identity gathers the key facts about a property in one secure online record. It sets out the building's current condition, its permits and plans, and any changes made to it over the years. For anyone buying or selling a home in Greece, it has become one of the most important documents to understand. This guide explains what the E-ID is, what it contains, who prepares it, and why it matters at the moment a property changes hands.

Selling a property in Greece involves a number of professional fees, taxes, and administrative costs that vary depending on your circumstances. Knowing what to expect before you list helps you plan realistically and avoid surprises later in the process.

If you own a property in Greece and are thinking about selling, one of the first things on your mind is probably a practical one: what do I pay to the estate agent? It's a sensible question to ask early, and the answer shapes how you budget for the sale and what you can expect from the agency representing you.

If you have bought or sold property in the Netherlands, Germany, the UK, or most other Western European countries, you are probably used to a clear setup: the seller has their agent, the buyer has theirs, and each represents their respective client. In Greece, things work differently, and it is very important to have a clear overview before you decide to move forward with a property transaction.

Buying a house in Greece is often an exciting decision, whether it is for holidays, relocation, investment, or future retirement. At the same time, property buyers need a clear overview of the additional costs involved in the purchase process. This helps them understand the full budget required and make an informed choice based on their financial plans, personal needs, and property preferences.

You have probably pictured your home in Greece for years: where it is, the meals on the terrace, the summer light. One of the practical questions to settle is what kind of ownership you want. This article explains the main types of property in Greece and the ways a property can be owned.

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.

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.