❌ Top Mistakes Foreigners Make When Buying Property in Greece (and How to Avoid Them)

Greece has become one of Europe’s most attractive property markets, drawing attention from investors, retirees, and Golden Visa applicants. The country offers sunshine, lifestyle, and strong capital appreciation — but buying real estate here is not without its challenges. Foreign buyers often fall into avoidable traps that can cost them time, money, and peace of mind. In this guide, we highlight the most common mistakes foreigners make when buying property in Greece — and how to avoid them.

Christos Boubalos

9/10/20252 min read

1. Not Hiring a Trusted Local Agency

The mistake: Many buyers try to manage the process alone, relying only on online listings or “friends of friends.”
The risk: Overpaying, falling into scams, or buying property with hidden legal or structural issues.
The solution: A reputable real estate office provides:
- Verified listings.
- Access to off-market opportunities.
- Coordination with lawyers, notaries, and engineers.

👉 The right agency is your safeguard from day one.

2. Underestimating Total Costs

The mistake: Budgeting only for the purchase price.
The risk: Being surprised by an extra 8–12% in fees and taxes.
The reality: Typical costs include:
- Transfer tax: 3% of property’s objective value.
- Notary fees: 0.8%–1.2%.
- Land Registry/Cadastre: ~0.5%.
- Lawyer: 1% (approx.).
- Realtor’s fee: 2%–3% of final sale price.
The solution: A professional office will calculate the all-in cost for you before you sign.

3. Ignoring Legal & Technical Checks

The mistake: Skipping a proper due diligence.
The risk: Buying property with debts, disputes, or illegal constructions.
The solution: A serious agency ensures you have the right lawyer and engineer to check everything — from building permits to structural condition.

4. Buying Old, Inefficient Properties Without Planning Ahead

The mistake: Falling for a cheap price tag.
The risk: Higher energy bills, expensive renovations, and lower rental demand.
The solution: Agencies recommend AAA+ new builds that are energy efficient, sustainable, and easier to rent or resell.

5. Overlooking Rental Rules & Market Demand

The mistake: Assuming Airbnb or long-term rentals will always be possible.
The risk: Some areas have restrictions, while others have low tenant demand.
The solution: An experienced office knows which neighborhoods guarantee rental demand — and which are risky.

6. Rushing Into Golden Visa Purchases

The mistake: Choosing “any property” just to qualify for the Golden Visa.
The risk: Ending up with an overpriced or low-quality property.
The solution: Agencies help you combine Golden Visa eligibility with solid investment value.

Why the Right Real Estate Office Is Essential

A professional agency doesn’t just “show properties.” It:

Filters the market so you only see safe, valuable options.
Calculates the true total cost (including taxes, legal, realtor fees).
Works with trusted lawyers, engineers, and notaries.
Provides negotiation power to secure a fair price.
Guides you through after-sale management (renting, resale, or Golden Visa).

👉 Without this support, most foreigners risk making expensive mistakes.

✅ Key Takeaways

Buying property in Greece is rewarding but comes with risks.
The biggest mistake is trying to do it without the right real estate office.
Expect 8–12% extra costs, including realtor’s fee (2–3%).
A trusted agency ensures legal safety, smart investments, and long-term value.

📞 Avoid Mistakes – Work with POLI Real Estate

At POLI Real Estate, we specialize in guiding foreign buyers safely through the Greek property market. From verifying properties to calculating full costs and securing Golden Visa eligibility, we ensure a smooth, transparent, and profitable investment journey.

👉 and let us help you find your property in Greece — without the mistakes.