How to buy property in Ελλάδα (Grecia)
A practical guide for buyers (including foreigners): step-by-step process, purchase costs, annual taxes, financing and quirks in Ελλάδα (Grecia). Informational, verified August 2026 — not legal advice.
Can foreigners buy?
EU buyers are free; non-EU too, except border areas/sensitive islands (special approval). You need an AFM (tax number) and a Greek account.
The process, step by step
- 1AFM + bank account
- 2Lawyer (customary for title checks — de facto mandatory)
- 3Pre-contract with ~10% deposit
- 4Notarial deed + payment
- 5Registration at the land registry/Ktimatologio
Purchase costs (on top of the price)
| Transfer tax | 3,09% |
| VAT on new builds (often suspended) | 24%* |
| Notary + lawyer + registry | ~2–3% |
Annual taxes: ENFIA — from ~€2/m² upward, by zone and value.
💶 What it costs to buy a €200,000 home in Ελλάδα (Grecia)
What it really costs you, with taxes, notary and registry included — estimated from the country's rules, before you talk to a notary.
| Resident | Non-resident / second home | |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer tax | €6,180 | €6,180 |
| Notary + lawyer + registry | €4,000 – €6,000 | €4,000 – €6,000 |
| Estimated final price | €210,180 – €212,180 | €210,180 – €212,180 |
Indicative estimate from the country's public rules; rates differ by region and by your situation. Not tax advice.
Financing as a non-resident
Local lending to non-residents is limited; many buy cash or borrow at home.
Quirks that surprise buyers
- ⚠️ Island titles can be messy (unregistered inheritances) — the lawyer is essential
- ⚠️ Check building legality (planning amnesties are common)
- ⚠️ A Golden Visa exists but thresholds vary by area and change — check the current rules
Frequently asked questions
- Can I buy property in Ελλάδα (Grecia) as a foreigner?
- EU buyers are free; non-EU too, except border areas/sensitive islands (special approval). You need an AFM (tax number) and a Greek account.
- What costs and taxes do I pay when buying in Ελλάδα (Grecia)?
- Transfer tax: 3,09%; VAT on new builds (often suspended): 24%*; Notary + lawyer + registry: ~2–3%. ENFIA — from ~€2/m² upward, by zone and value.
- Can I get a mortgage in Ελλάδα (Grecia) as a non-resident?
- Local lending to non-residents is limited; many buy cash or borrow at home.