Guides ·
Buying property in Greece as a foreigner: every step
Buying property in Greece from abroad is simpler than it looks, as long as the steps happen in the right order. Here is the process exactly as we follow it with our clients, from the first check to registration at the Hellenic Cadastre.
1. A Greek tax number (AFM)
Every buyer needs a Greek tax identification number (AFM) before signing anything. Non-residents can get it through a tax representative, or through a lawyer with power of attorney, without travelling.
2. A Greek bank account
A Greek bank account is normally needed too, because the price must be paid by traceable bank transfer, not in cash. It is worth starting early: banks ask for documents and their checks take time.
3. Legal and technical checks
Before you commit to anything, your own lawyer checks the title deeds and the property's record at the Hellenic Cadastre (Ktimatologio). At the same time, an engineer checks the building permit and whether there are unauthorised constructions that must be legalised before the sale.
- Title deeds and Cadastre record
- Building permit and unauthorised constructions
- Energy Performance Certificate (PEA), required for every sale
4. Preliminary agreement and deposit
Once the checks are clean, a preliminary agreement with a deposit can be signed, so the property is reserved until the final contract. The terms are agreed in writing and reviewed by the buyer's lawyer.
5. The contract at the notary
The final purchase contract is signed before a notary public. The transfer tax is paid before signing, and the price is paid by bank transfer, as written in the contract.
6. Registration at the Cadastre
After signing, the contract is registered at the Hellenic Cadastre. Only then is the buyer the registered owner of the property.
Can it all be done from abroad?
Yes. The whole purchase can be done remotely through a power of attorney given to a lawyer in Greece. S.F. Properties shows you properties in person or by live video call, and coordinates your lawyer and engineer at every step.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to travel to Greece to buy?
Not necessarily. With a power of attorney to a lawyer in Greece, every step can be done for you, from the tax number to signing the contract.
When does the buyer become the owner?
When the contract signed at the notary is registered at the Hellenic Cadastre.
Who checks that the property is legal?
Your lawyer checks the title deeds and the Cadastre record, and an engineer checks the building permit and any unauthorised constructions. The rules are confirmed with a lawyer for every case.
Want to talk about your own case?
Send us a message and we reply personally, with a private presentation of properties if you are looking.
This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; we confirm them with a lawyer for every case.