02.06.2026
Giorgos Gavriilidis
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.
The transfer tax is paid directly by the buyer and amounts to 3.09% of the purchase price or of the taxable value of the property, whichever is higher.
A notary is required for every property purchase in Greece. They prepare and oversee the signing of the final deed, either with both parties present or through their appointed lawyers. Notary fees are generally around 2% of the sales price or the property's tax value, whichever is higher.
Once the deed is signed, the notary prepares a summary and registers the transaction at the local land registry. This fee is approximately 0.5% of the property’s value and is a routine step in every purchase.
Having a lawyer is not legally required in Greece, but it is strongly recommended. A legal expert will verify what exactly you are buying, check for any encumbrances or legal issues, and guide you through the process from start to finish. Fees generally range between 1% and 2% of the purchase price (plus VAT), depending on the scope of services. At Elxis, our in-house legal team handles this work directly. Buyers who purchase through us can benefit from legal due diligence without needing to coordinate separately between lawyers and agents.
If a real estate agent is involved in the transaction, a commission is due. Most agencies in Greece charge buyers between 2% and 4% of the agreed purchase price (plus VAT). It is worth clarifying the commission structure with your agent before proceeding.
Once you own a property in Greece, monthly running costs are manageable. Internet typically costs between 20 and 35 euros per month. For an apartment of around 80 sqm, utilities (electricity, gas, and water) generally run between 150 and 300 euros per month, depending on the season and usage.
For properties with a pool and garden, maintenance costs typically range from 150 to 350 euros per month, depending on the garden size and pool type.
Most homes require routine maintenance over the years, including painting, minor repairs, and the upkeep of any exposed wooden elements. In Greece, regular treatment of pergolas, shutters, decking, and other exterior woodwork is particularly recommended because of the strong sun and, in coastal areas, exposure to sea salt. Salt in the air can speed up wear on metal, paint, and wooden surfaces, so homes close to the sea may require more frequent care. Annual upkeep costs can range from 1,000 to 4,000 euros per year, depending on the size, age, location, and quality of construction of the property.
As a general rule of thumb, buyers should budget an additional 10% of the purchase price to cover the one-off transaction costs. For a full breakdown of buying costs, you can read our detailed guide here. If you have specific questions about a property you are considering, our team is available to walk you through the numbers before you commit to anything.
18.05.2026
You've dreamed for years about your home in Greece: where it will be, the taverna meals you will have, and the summer sun. Now comes one of the logistics of buying a home in Greece: what kind of ownership you want.
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.
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.
11.05.2026
In recent years, buying a second home in Greece has become especially popular, driven by the steady growth of the real estate market and increased interest from investors. This growth is supported by Greece's economic recovery and government incentives, making it an attractive investment opportunity. The rise of home rental websites like Airbnb and VRBO has further fueled demand. Greece offers something for every lifestyle, with a diverse range of property types including modern apartments in vibrant city centers, luxury villas on the islands, and family-friendly homes in the mainland regions. As a popular tourist destination, Greece attracts both buyers and investors seeking lifestyle benefits, strong rental income potential, and long-term appreciation. The country's warm hospitality and high quality of life further enhance the experience of owning a second home here.
16.04.2026
In this comprehensive guide to buying a home in Greece, we will cover the entire process of buying a home in Greece, including where to buy a home in Greece, what types of homes you can buy in Greece, the documents needed, the legal process of buying a Greek home, and also frequently asked questions.
- Trustworthy: Elxis has over 30 years of experience buying, selling, and performing all legal procedures for the purchase and sale of properties in Greece. The information in this guide comes directly from our team of lawyers and real estate consultants, so you don’t need to think twice about the credibility of the information.
- Up to Date: Most similar guides you will find on the internet have old information about tax rates, documentation, and legal processes. This buyer’s guide is continually updated as the rules and regulations in Greece change, so you don’t have to wonder if anything is out of date by the time you start your home search.
- Optimized for English Speakers: Many similar guides are translated from Greek to English, and as a result, some of the meaning is lost in translation. This guide is written 100% by native English speakers and proofed by native Dutch and German speakers, so the information is clear and understandable, no matter where you’re reading from.
29.12.2025
You have bought your home in Greece and are wondering how to add utilities such as electricity, water and internet to your property? In this article we explain exactly how to add utilities to your home in Greece.
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