FAQ for buyers

Yes, Greek banks offer mortgages to foreign buyers. The conditions differ from those in the Netherlands, but financing is typically available up to 60–65% of the property value, depending on your financial situation.

Yes, in most cases you will need a Greek bank account for the purchase and for paying taxes, utilities, and other expenses. This can be arranged during the buying process with the help of a lawyer or advisor.

Yes, after the purchase you will have ongoing costs such as utilities (electricity and water), maintenance, and potentially property management if you do not live there full-time. These costs depend on how the property is used.

In most cases, the property is taxed in Greece and not in the Netherlands. However, you typically need to declare it in your Dutch tax return (Box 3). It is advisable to consult a tax advisor for your specific situation.

Yes, as a property owner you pay an annual property tax, known as ENFIA. The amount depends on the location, size, and value of the property, but it is generally lower than in many other European countries.

Yes, when buying a property in Greece, you will pay both notary and legal fees. Notary fees are typically between 0.5% and 1%, while legal fees are on average around 1–2% of the purchase price.

These parties ensure a safe and legally correct transaction.

The transfer tax in Greece is typically 3% of the purchase price. It is one of the main costs and must be paid before the final transfer at the notary.

In addition to the purchase price, you should budget for approximately 8–10% in additional costs. These include transfer tax, notary fees, legal fees, land registry costs, and any real estate agent fees.

The exact percentage depends on the property and location, but this provides a realistic estimate.

Yes, Living Greece can connect you with reliable local partners for property management and rental. This allows you to enjoy your home with peace of mind, while everything is taken care of when you are not there.

Yes, rental income is taxed in Greece. The tax rate depends on the amount of income earned. It is advisable to work with a local accountant to ensure everything is handled correctly and in compliance with regulations.

If you do not live in Greece full-time, a property manager can take care of many responsibilities. This includes guest communication, cleaning, maintenance, and key handovers.

This ensures your property is well managed, even when you are not there.

Rental income depends on the location, type of property, and how often you rent it out. Popular areas and well-maintained properties generally perform better.

For many buyers, rental income helps cover costs, without being the primary objective.

Yes, most buyers use their property as a second home and rent it out only when they are not there themselves. This offers flexibility and allows you to combine personal use with rental.

For short-term rentals, registration with the Greek tax authorities is required. This process is relatively straightforward and can be arranged with the help of an accountant or local advisor.

The exact rules may vary depending on the region and type of property.

Yes, it is possible to rent out your property in Greece, both for short-term (holiday rentals) and long-term stays. Many owners choose to rent out their property when they are not using it themselves.

Depending on the location and type of rental, certain rules and registration requirements apply.

Yes, Living Greece also provides support after the purchase. We connect you with reliable local partners for property management, utilities, furnishing, and maintenance, ensuring your home is always well taken care of.

Yes, Greece has a well-developed network of domestic flights, ferries, and roads. This makes it easy to travel between regions and islands and to access your property.

Many buyers choose to furnish their property locally in Greece, either by visiting themselves or by working with local suppliers and interior specialists. It is also possible to manage the entire process remotely with the support of local professionals.

Yes, utilities such as electricity and water can be arranged remotely, either during or after the purchase process. With the help of local partners, this can be done easily without needing to be physically present.

You can appoint a local property manager or contact person to handle maintenance, repairs, and inspections. Many owners choose this option to ensure the property remains in good condition, even when they are not in Greece.

Yes, many owners manage their property from abroad without any issues. With the support of local professionals such as property managers, accountants, and maintenance providers, everything can be handled remotely in a reliable and efficient way.

Greece is easily accessible from the Netherlands, with direct flights to destinations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, Corfu, Zakynthos, and other islands.

Flight time is typically between 3 and 4 hours, making it easy to travel to your property multiple times per year.