FAQ

Yes. As a Swiss citizen, you are generally allowed to purchase property in Greece. There are no general purchase restrictions for non-EU citizens. However, in certain border or security-sensitive regions (e.g. near Turkey), additional approval may be required. Buyers also need a Greek tax number (AFM) and a notarised purchase contract.

To purchase property in Greece, the following requirements are essential: a Greek tax number (AFM), a Greek bank account, a notarised purchase contract and a legal review of the property by a lawyer. In addition, taxes and fees must be paid prior to signing the contract.

The property purchase process in Greece follows clearly defined steps – from selecting a suitable property to legal and technical due diligence, notarisation and registration in the land registry. Structured professional support is essential to minimise risks and ensure a secure and efficient transaction.

The duration of a property purchase in Greece depends on the property and the level of preparation. In most cases, the process takes between 4 and 8 weeks. Key factors include legal due diligence, obtaining the Greek tax number (AFM), contract preparation, notarisation and registration in the land registry.

A lawyer is not legally mandatory but is strongly recommended, especially for foreign buyers. A lawyer reviews ownership rights, building permits, usage permits and any encumbrances, and protects your legal and financial interests throughout the entire purchase process.

Yes. A property purchase in Greece is only legally valid if notarised. The notary prepares the purchase contract, ensures proper notarisation and initiates the registration of the new owner in the land registry.

As with any real estate transaction, risks exist – particularly if legal or technical due diligence is missing. Unclear ownership structures, unauthorised construction or existing encumbrances can cause issues. With professional support from lawyers, notaries and technical experts, these risks can largely be avoided.

In addition to the purchase price, buyers should expect transfer tax (3.09%), notary fees, legal fees and, where applicable, brokerage fees. Total additional costs usually amount to approximately 9%–12% of the purchase price, depending on the structure and property.

If you use your property exclusively for personal purposes and do not generate rental income, no Greek income tax applies.

However, the annual property tax (ENFIA) must always be paid. The amount depends on location, size and property value and is generally moderate.

If the property is rented out, rental income is subject to Greek income tax at progressive rates currently ranging from 15% to 45%, depending on income level.

Additionally:

• Rental income must be declared in Greece

• The property must also be declared in your Swiss tax return

• Double taxation is avoided under the Switzerland–Greece double taxation agreement

Yes. Properties in Greece can be rented both long-term and short-term (e.g. holiday rentals). Different tax and administrative requirements apply depending on the rental model, particularly for short-term rentals via platforms such as Airbnb.

Ongoing costs include annual property tax (ENFIA), maintenance and repair costs, insurance and, if applicable, property management or rental administration fees. The amount depends on location, property type and usage.

In addition to the standard minimum investment thresholds of €400,000 or €800,000 (depending on the region), there are specific exceptions where a Golden Visa may still be obtained with a €250,000 investment.

This applies in particular to properties involving a change of use, such as:

• former commercial or industrial buildings

• office buildings

• other non-residential properties converted into residential use

Requirements:

• Conversion and renovation must be fully completed

• Conditions are strictly reviewed

• Not every renovated property qualifies automatically

Early legal assessment is therefore essential. Immolymp coordinates all legal and authority-related procedures.

Detailed information on requirements, investment models and the application process can be found on our Golden Visa Information Page/Blog.

In Greece, it is common for both buyers and sellers to pay a brokerage commission, typically around 2–3% per party, depending on the property and region.

Immolymp usually works with local brokerage partners:

• The local broker is paid by the seller

• Immolymp is paid by the buyer

For the buyer, this does not result in higher total costs, as the commission normally paid to a local broker is instead paid to Immolymp.

Key advantage:
Immolymp exclusively represents the buyer’s interests – without any conflict of interest.

Our buyer’s commission is 3% and includes personal, structured support through to completion of the purchase.

A search mandate is ideal for buyers seeking a suitable property efficiently while minimising time and risk. Immolymp conducts market research, verifies real availability, negotiates prices, organises viewings and manages the entire purchase process in a structured manner through to completion.

Immolymp is not a traditional real estate platform but a specialised real estate advisory for Greece. We represent buyers exclusively and work transparently, internationally and in a structured way – from initial enquiry to property selection and full legal, tax and technical coordination.

Immolymp manages the entire search and coordination process for buyers. We verify property availability, analyse pricing and market conditions, negotiate prices, organise viewings and coordinate all involved professionals.

This saves buyers time, avoids unnecessary travel and ensures a structured and efficient transaction through to completion.

Learn more about our structured buyer representation under Property Search Mandate in Greece.