Accommodation Greece

Long-term Rental

For long-term living in Greece, the most convenient and economically advantageous option is to rent accommodation for a long term (usually 12 months or more).

 

To find housing for long-term rental, you can use:

- Real estate agencies — professional agencies help with finding accommodation and processing all documents. Their services usually incur a commission (usually equivalent to one month’s rent).

- Online platforms: websites like Spitogatos.gr, XE.gr, HomeGreekHome.com provide up-to-date listings from owners and agencies.

- Social networks and groups: there are groups on Facebook for expats and locals where rental listings are posted.

 

Documents for rental

Generally, to rent a property, you will need:

- Passport or residence permit.

- Tax number, which is necessary for signing the lease agreement.

- In some cases, proof of income or work (e.g., employment contract) may be required.

 

Short-term Rental

Short-term rentals may be needed by tourists, students, or those planning a temporary stay in Greece. It can range from a few days to several months.

 

Ways to find short-term rentals:

Popular platforms for short-term rentals include:

- Airbnb — one of the most popular services for short-term rentals.

- Booking.com — offers a variety of accommodation options from private apartments to hotels.

- Expedia — another popular platform for finding temporary lodging.

 

Daily rental through agencies

In some large cities, apartments or houses can be rented short-term through real estate agencies. This is useful for those who do not wish to book through platforms.

 

Features of short-term rental:

- Flexible conditions: short-term rentals often do not require signing a long-term contract, and rental conditions can be more flexible.

- Prices: The cost of short-term rentals is usually higher compared to long-term rentals, especially in tourist areas and during the high season.

- Inclusion of services: Many short-term rental options include all utilities in the rental cost.

 

Important points for foreigners

- Communication with owners: Many owners speak Greek, but in tourist areas and large cities, you can find landlords who speak English.

- Real estate agency services: If you don't speak Greek, real estate agencies can be useful intermediaries in finding a home and communicating with owners.

- Taxes: Rental agreements must be officially registered, and tenants are entitled to official receipts for tax purposes.

A rental or purchase agreement is an important legal document that confirms your rights and obligations as a tenant or buyer and can be used in various official and administrative procedures.

 

Rental agreement: where and why it is needed

 

A rental agreement is an official document that regulates the relationship between the tenant and the landlord. It is important that the agreement is signed by both parties and registered in the tax system. It can be used in the following cases:

 

For obtaining a residence permit

The rental agreement serves as official proof that you have a place to reside in Greece. In this case, it must be registered in the TaxisNet system.

 

For opening a bank account

Many banks in Greece require customers to provide a rental agreement as part of the proof of permanent residence in the country.

 

For registering a tax number

When obtaining a tax number for the first time, foreign citizens may need a rental agreement to confirm their place of residence. It is one of the basic documents for obtaining a number.

 

For connecting utility services

To connect utility services such as electricity, water, or the internet, you must provide a rental agreement that confirms you legally rent the property and have the right to use these services.

 

For social and tax registration

Government and tax authorities may require a rental agreement when registering in social security systems or filing tax returns.

 

For tenant rights protection

The rental agreement regulates the rights and obligations of the tenant and the landlord. It is your primary document for protecting your rights in case of conflicts or disputes with the property owner. It is important that the agreement includes points such as the rental amount, repair conditions, and utility services.

 

Property purchase agreement: where and why it is needed

 

A property purchase agreement is a key legal document that confirms the transfer of ownership rights to real estate in Greece. It plays an important role in several cases and must be notarized and registered with the relevant government agencies.

 

For obtaining a residence permit through the "Golden Visa" program

For those purchasing property in Greece worth at least 250,000 euros, the purchase agreement is necessary for applying for a residence permit through the "Golden Visa" program. This agreement serves as proof of your investment in the Greek economy.

 

For obtaining a tax number

Before concluding a real estate purchase deal, you must obtain a tax number, and the purchase agreement will become part of the process of registering the property in your name with the tax authorities.

 

For registration in the land cadastre

After purchasing property in Greece, you need to register ownership rights in the land cadastre. The purchase agreement is the main document confirming ownership and registration.

 

For connecting utility services

After purchasing property, the purchase agreement will be necessary to connect electricity, water supply, gas, and other utilities in the new owner's name.

 

For tax reporting

The purchase agreement is required for filing tax returns related to owning property in Greece. It is used in the calculation of property tax and other related taxes.

 

To protect the owner's rights

The presence of an official sale and purchase agreement guarantees the protection of your rights as a property owner.

Long-term rental is the most popular option for foreigners planning to live in Greece for a year or more.

Main features

Signing a lease: The lease agreement must be concluded in written form and registered in the Greek tax system through the TaxisNet portal. This protects both the tenant and the landlord. The agreement specifies important aspects such as the rental amount, conditions for rent increase, rental terms, obligations to pay utility bills, and deposit return conditions.

Deposit and advance payment: When signing the agreement, the tenant usually pays a deposit equivalent to one month's rent and the rent for the first month of residence. The deposit is returned at the end of the contract provided the apartment is handed over in good condition.

Tax number: To conclude an official rental agreement in Greece and pay utilities, you will need a tax number. It can be obtained at the tax office at your place of residence.

Responsibility for utilities: In most cases, the tenant is responsible for paying utility bills. The payment conditions should be clearly stated in the contract.

Using real estate agency services is a popular option, especially for foreigners who do not speak Greek. Agencies can offer housing options, assist with paperwork, and protect your interests.

Main features:

- Agency commission: The standard commission of real estate agencies in Greece is usually one month's rental payment.

- Searching through agencies: In large cities, such as Athens and Thessaloniki, numerous agencies offer rental services for foreigners. Among well-known agencies are RE/MAX, Engel & Völkers, and others.

Rental costs can vary significantly depending on the location:

Athens: In the capital of Greece, rental rates depend on the area. In the city center, in areas like Kolonaki, Plaka, and Monastiraki, rent can be quite high. More affordable areas include Kypseli, Petralona, and Ilisia.

Thessaloniki: The second-largest city in Greece offers more affordable housing prices compared to Athens. Rental costs vary depending on proximity to the center and the sea.

Islands: On popular tourist islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos, rental rates are especially high during the tourist season, while off-season more affordable options can be found.

Features of long-term rental

Unfurnished apartments: Most long-term rental offers are unfurnished apartments that may only have basic appliances (e.g., kitchen stove, oven, and sometimes a refrigerator). Note: Some companies in Greece offer furniture rentals, which can be useful for those who do not plan to stay for a long time.

Furnished apartments: Furnished apartments are mainly offered for short-term rentals, but you can also find long-term rental options. The rental cost of furnished housing is usually higher compared to unfurnished counterparts, and such apartments include all necessary living amenities (furniture, appliances, sometimes even dishes).

Buying property in Greece is an attractive option both for personal living and for investment. The purchasing process may include numerous legal and administrative steps, so it is important to be prepared for the details and follow the established procedures.

 

Preparation for purchase: gathering necessary documents

Before starting the real estate purchase process, foreign citizens need to prepare the necessary documents:

- Tax number: for any financial transactions in Greece, including property purchases, a tax number is required. It can be obtained at the local tax office.

- Bank account in Greece: most real estate transactions are conducted through a Greek bank, so opening an account is a mandatory step.

- Foreign passport: the main document confirming your identity.

 

Real Estate Search

- Real Estate Agencies: Most foreign buyers use the services of licensed real estate agencies. Agencies help with property search, legal paperwork, and negotiations with the seller.

- Online Platforms: Popular websites for property search include Spitogatos.gr, XE.gr, Golden Visa Greece (for properties under investment programs).

- Personal Visits: It is recommended to inspect the properties personally or through a trusted representative to ensure a confident choice.

 

Choosing a Lawyer and Notary

 

Buying property in Greece requires the involvement of a legal representative and a notary:

- Lawyer: A crucial step is hiring a lawyer who will protect your interests and check the legal status of the property (debts, legal disputes, restrictions, etc.). The lawyer also helps in drafting the contract.

- Notary: The sales contract must be notarized. The notary is responsible for handling the transaction, verifying documents, and registering the contract with the land registry.

 

Conducting Checks

Before signing the contract, the lawyer should carry out the following checks:

- Check for Liabilities and Encumbrances: The lawyer checks if there are any tax debts or loans on the property, as well as arrests or restrictions.

- Land Registry Check: It is necessary to ensure that the property is registered in the land registry and that there are no disputes over ownership rights.

- Architectural and Building Checks: For houses and land plots, it is important to check compliance with existing construction standards and permits.

 

Golden Visa Program

For foreign citizens investing in real estate amounting to 250,000 euros or more, Greece offers the "Golden Visa" program. This residence permit provides the right to reside in the country and allows visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.

 

Features of Land Purchase

Buying land plots in Greece has its peculiarities:

- Building Permits: If you buy land for construction, it is necessary to obtain the corresponding permit. Building codes and restrictions can vary depending on the region (especially on islands or in protected zones).

- Infrastructure: It is important to check if utilities (water, electricity, sewage) are connected to the plot.

Real estate insurance in Greece is an important aspect of property ownership, especially considering natural disasters like earthquakes, fires, and floods, which sometimes occur in the country. However, real estate insurance in Greece is not legally mandatory for all owners. The decision to insure is up to the property owner, except in certain situations.

Real estate insurance becomes mandatory in the following cases:

Mortgage Lending: If you purchase real estate using a mortgage loan, most banks will require you to insure the property. This is a standard condition to protect the bank's interests as the lender. Typically, the minimum insurance coverage includes protection from damages caused by fire, earthquakes, and other natural disasters.

Common Property in Apartment Buildings: In some apartment buildings, owners may collectively decide to insure communal areas (such as staircases, roofs, basements) against damage to the entire building. This is often discussed in general housing meetings.

The utilities you will pay for may depend on the type of housing and its location, but the main categories are as follows:

 

Electricity

Payments: Electricity bills are issued every 2 months and may include not only consumption charges but also a property tax, which is sometimes included in the electricity bill.

How to Pay: Bills can be paid online through banking systems, at banks, or at the post office.

 

Water

Payments: Water bills are issued every 3 months and include both water consumption and sewage (wastewater) disposal.

How to Pay: Payment can be made through the bank, post offices, or online platforms.

 

Gas

Gas usage: Gas is used for heating, hot water, and cooking. In large cities, there are centralized gas networks managed by companies. In more remote areas, liquefied gas in cylinders is used.

Payments: Gas bills arrive monthly or every 2 months. The cost may vary depending on the season, especially in winter months when gas consumption for heating increases significantly.

How to pay: Payment is similar to other utilities — through a bank or online.

 

Heating

Centralized and autonomous heating: Centralized heating is often used in apartment buildings, where payment is divided among all residents. Private homes or new buildings may have autonomous heating using gas or electricity.

Payment: In homes with central heating, costs are distributed according to the square meters of the apartment and the usage time. In homes with autonomous heating, you pay only for the resources actually consumed.

 

Garbage disposal and cleaning

The fee for garbage disposal is usually included in the electricity bill and charged automatically. It's a fixed amount depending on the area of your property.

In some cases, local municipalities may charge additional fees for specific services such as waste recycling.

 

 

Paying utility bills in Greece can be done in several ways:

 

Online payment

- Most utility providers offer the option to pay through their official websites or via online banking.

- Popular online platforms for bill payments: e-banking from Greek banks (such as Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank, National Bank of Greece) and payment systems like PayPal or Vivawallet.

 

Banks and post offices

- Bills can be paid at bank branches or post offices. You will need a bill with a QR code or barcode, which is scanned for payment processing.

 

Automatic payments

- Many tenants and property owners set up automatic deduction from their bank account to pay utility bills. This is convenient for those who don't want to worry about payment deadlines.

Living in apartment buildings in Greece is regulated by a number of rules and standards aimed at maintaining order and ensuring comfortable coexistence for all residents.

 

Collective management of an apartment building

In Greece, apartment buildings are often managed through a system of collective management called a tenant's syndicate. This body regulates common issues related to the maintenance and use of shared areas, such as staircases, roofs, elevators, and basements.

 

Payment of common expenses

Each resident of an apartment building is obliged to pay their share of common expenses, which include the costs of maintaining the building and utilities used in the common areas:

- Electricity in common areas: lighting of stairs, elevators, and corridors.

- Cleaning services: regular cleaning of common areas.

- Elevator maintenance: if the building has an elevator, its maintenance and repair are paid for from the common budget.

- Heating and water supply: in buildings with centralized heating, costs are distributed among residents based on square meters or usage time.

Each resident receives invoices that must be paid within the specified time frames.

 

Silence and respect for neighbors

Observing silence and calmness is one of the key aspects of living in apartment buildings in Greece. There are official quiet hours established by law:

 

- Summer period (April 1 — September 30):

- From 15:00 to 17:30 — afternoon rest.

- From 23:00 to 07:00 — nighttime.

- Winter period (October 1 — March 31):

- From 15:30 to 17:30 — afternoon rest.

- From 22:00 to 07:30 — nighttime.

 

During these hours, it is prohibited to play loud music, carry out repair work, and create noise that may disturb neighbors.

 

Use of common areas

Common areas (corridors, stairs, basements, and roofs) should be used with respect for all residents:

- Cluttering of common areas is prohibited: personal items, bicycles, strollers, or furniture must not be left in corridors and stairways.

- Maintaining Cleanliness: all residents are required to keep common areas clean and not leave trash outside designated areas.

- Roof Usage: in some buildings, the roof may be used for drying clothes, but the rules established by the residents' syndicate must be followed.

 

Pets

Pets are allowed in most apartment buildings in Greece, but there are rules aimed at preventing inconvenience to other residents:

 

- Cleanliness and Order: pet owners must maintain cleanliness in common areas and prevent animals from soiling the territory.

- Noise: if a pet makes too much noise (e.g., constant barking), it may lead to complaints from neighbors.

 

Renovation Work and Upgrades

Renovation and construction work in apartments must be carried out at designated hours so as not to disturb the neighbors' peace:

- Official Hours for Renovation Work: renovation work is permitted from 08:00 to 14:30 and from 17:00 to 21:00 on weekdays. On Saturdays, work may be carried out from 08:00 to 14:30, and it is prohibited on Sundays and holidays.

Before starting major renovations, residents should notify neighbors or the residents' syndicate of the planned actions.

 

Responsibility for Payment of Utility Bills

Each resident of an apartment building is responsible for paying their individual utility bills (water, electricity, gas) as well as their share of common expenses (as described above).

The real estate market in Greece has become attractive in recent years for both locals and foreign investors. Currently, a variety of real estate properties can be found in Greece—from inexpensive apartments to luxury villas and commercial properties.

 

Recovery After Crisis

The financial crisis greatly impacted the Greek real estate market. Housing prices dropped by 40-50% from 2008 to 2014. However, since 2018, the market has been steadily recovering, making Greece an appealing investment option.

- Price Growth: although real estate prices remain below pre-crisis levels, they are slowly rising, especially in tourist areas and the capital—Athens.

- Economic Recovery: the economic situation in the country has stabilized, which strengthens foreign investors' confidence in the real estate market.

 

Real Estate Options: Apartments, Houses, Land

The Greek real estate market offers a wide range of properties:

- Apartments: a popular choice for those seeking accommodation in major cities such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras. Apartment prices vary greatly depending on the area and proximity to main transport hubs.

- Houses and Villas: Greece is renowned for its countryside houses and villas, especially in coastal areas and islands such as Mykonos, Crete, and Rhodes. These properties are particularly sought after by foreign buyers.

- Land Plots: the opportunity to purchase land for building a house or commercial property is also available in the Greek market, especially in tourist-attractive regions.

 

Geographical Features

The real estate market in Greece varies greatly depending on the region:

- Athens: the capital of Greece is one of the most dynamic real estate markets. Central areas such as Kolonaki, Plaka, and Monastiraki attract both tourists and investors. The cost of apartments in these areas is higher than in the suburbs.

- Thessaloniki: the second-largest city in Greece offers more affordable real estate prices compared to Athens but also shows steady demand and price growth.

- Islands: popular tourist destinations such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete have expensive real estate aimed at the premium segment. At the same time, more affordable options can be found on lesser-known islands.

 

The "Golden Visa" Program

For foreign citizens investing in real estate in Greece with an amount of at least 250,000 euros, there is a "Golden Visa" program that provides a residence permit. This makes the Greek real estate market particularly attractive for non-EU citizens.

 

Affordable Prices and Taxes

The cost of real estate in Greece depends on the location, type of property, and market conditions:

- Prices: the average cost of an apartment in the center of Athens ranges from 2000 to 4000 euros per square meter, depending on the area and the state of the building. On islands and in tourist areas, prices can be significantly higher.

- Real Estate Tax: Buyers are required to pay a property transfer tax of 3% of the property's value, as well as an annual property tax, the amount of which depends on the market value of the property.

 

Investment Opportunities

The real estate market in Greece offers significant investment opportunities:

- Short-term Rentals: Popular tourist destinations such as Athens and the islands offer high income from short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com.

- Capital Growth: Real estate prices in Greece continue to rise, making property purchases attractive for long-term investments.

 

Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure development in the country also contributes to the growing interest in real estate. Improvements to the transportation network, expansion of seaports and airports, and the construction of new roads in tourist areas positively affect property value.

The cost of living in Greece can vary depending on the region, your lifestyle, and the type of housing, but overall, Greece is considered a more affordable country to live in compared to most Western European countries.

 

Housing and Rent

Rental prices vary greatly depending on the city and district:

- In Athens, renting a three-room apartment in the city center costs on average 1095 euros per month, and outside the center — about 938 euros. For one-room apartments, the average price ranges from 621 to 457 euros depending on the area.

- In Thessaloniki and other smaller cities, prices may be lower — renting a similar apartment costs around 700-800 euros per month.

 

Utilities

Monthly expenses for utilities for an apartment of approximately 85 sq.m. include electricity, heating, water, and gas and amount to approximately 150-160 euros. The cost of the internet is about 21 euros per month.

 

Groceries

Food prices in Greece are relatively affordable:

- A liter of milk costs about 1.71 euros.

- A dozen eggs — about 5.28 euros.

- 1 kg of tomatoes is approximately 2.05 euros, and 1 kg of potatoes — 1.20 euros.

 

Transportation

Public transportation in Greece is also quite affordable:

- A single ticket for city transport costs 1.20-1.40 euros.

- A monthly pass for public transport — about 30 euros.

 

Education and Healthcare

Education in public schools and universities for citizens of Greece and the EU is free, while for foreign students, tuition fees can range from 1500 to 7000 euros per year depending on the educational institution. International schools are significantly more expensive — up to 13,000 euros per year.

 

General Expenses

For a comfortable life in Greece, a single person will need approximately 850-1200 euros per month, excluding rent. For a family of four, average expenses amount to about 3000 euros per month. Of course, it all depends on your lifestyle and region of residence.

Greece has several government programs aimed at supporting citizens, including foreigners residing in the country.

 

Housing Programs

The Greek government is actively working to address the issue of affordable housing for young people and families. One of such programs is "My Housing," intended for young people aged 25-39. The program offers:

- Mortgage loans with low interest or even interest-free loans for purchasing housing built before 2007.

- Subsidies for the renovation and updating of housing, which helps make old real estate suitable for long-term rentals.

 

Additional subsidies are provided for young families, helping to cover costs for improving the energy efficiency of homes and expanding living space for families with children.

 

Energy-saving Programs

Greece also offers various energy efficiency programs such as "Exoikonomo," which provide subsidies for home modernization to reduce energy costs. These subsidies can cover up to 40% of expenses on improving the energy efficiency of housing. For example, homeowners can get assistance for installing solar panels, replacing windows and doors, or upgrading heating systems.

 

Subsidies for Utility Payments

In response to the sharp rise in electricity and gas prices, the Greek government has expanded subsidy programs to cover utility costs. Subsidies can cover up to 60 euros per megawatt-hour of consumed electricity, and additional discounts are provided for households that qualify for the social tariff.

 

Additional support for families

Low-income families and large families can also apply for heating allowances, which increase depending on the number of children and total income. This support helps compensate for heating expenses during the winter months.

 

Immigrants with residence permits who meet the program conditions can also take advantage of these opportunities.