How Much Cash You Really Need to Buy Property in Greece
Many buyers assume that purchasing property in Greece is complicated or requires huge capital.
In reality, the process is straightforward — but you do need to understand the real cash requirements beyond the asking price.
Here is a clear breakdown of how much cash you actually need to buy property in Greece in 2026.
1. Property Purchase Price (The Obvious Part)
This is the agreed price between buyer and seller.
Typical examples in 2026:
Athens apartment: €150,000–€300,000
Coastal home (mainland or islands): €200,000–€500,000
Luxury or seafront property: €600,000+
Unlike some countries, Greek banks rarely finance foreign buyers, so most purchases are cash-based.
2. Property Transfer Tax (3%)
Greece has one of the lowest property transfer taxes in Europe.
3% of the purchase price
Paid before signing the final contract
Example:
€250,000 property → €7,500 transfer tax
3. Notary Fees (1%–1.5%)
The notary prepares and certifies the final purchase contract.
Typical cost:
€2,500–€3,750 on a €250,000 purchase
4. Legal Fees (0.8%–1.2%)
A lawyer is strongly recommended (and essential for foreigners).
They handle:
title checks
liens and encumbrances
land registry verification
Typical cost:
€2,000–€3,000
5. Real Estate Agent Fee (Usually Paid by Seller)
In most cases:
the seller pays the agent’s commission
However, some agencies charge buyers separately, so this must always be confirmed in advance.
Typical buyer-side cost (if applicable):
1%–2% + VAT
6. Technical & Administrative Costs
These include:
engineer inspection
energy certificate
land registry fees
Typical total:
€1,000–€2,000
7. Renovation or Furnishing Budget (Optional but Common)
Most buyers spend additional cash after purchase.
Typical ranges:
Light furnishing: €5,000–€15,000
Renovation: €20,000–€80,000+
This is not mandatory, but it’s realistic to plan for it.
So, What’s the Real Total?
Example: €250,000 Property
| Cost Item | Approx. Amount |
|---|---|
| Purchase Price | €250,000 |
| Transfer Tax (3%) | €7,500 |
| Notary | €3,000 |
| Legal Fees | €2,500 |
| Registry & Technical | €1,500 |
| Total Required Cash | ~€264,500 |
Rule of thumb:
You should budget 6%–8% extra on top of the purchase price.
Final Thoughts
Buying property in Greece does not require hidden costs or complex financing.
If you have the purchase price plus an additional 6%–8% in cash, you are financially ready.
The key is:
clear budgeting
legal checks
no rushed decisions
With the right preparation, buying property in Greece in 2026 is one of the most transparent real estate processes in Europe.
«Smart Buyers Search Differently.»
