Yes — most foreign nationals may buy property in Greece. EU citizens have the same rights as Greek nationals. Citizens from some non-EU countries may need special permission from the Greek Ministry of Defence if the property is in a border or strategic area; this is rare for most islands and coastal plots.

Typical steps:

1. Due diligence (title search, debts, encumbrances).
2. Reservation/agreement of sale with deposit.
3. Drafting and signing the final contract before a civil-law notary (public notary) and payment of taxes/fees.
4. Registration of the deed in the Land Registry (or Cadastre) to transfer ownership.

Yes. Both buyers and sellers must have a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM / ΑΦΜ). You can obtain an AFM at a local tax office or via a legal representative (tax lawyer or notary) using a power of attorney.

Budget for:

• Property transfer tax: usually a percentage or fixed amount depending on cadastral rates; rules change so get current rates from your notary.
• Notary fees: typically 1–2% of the property price (negotiable within statutory limits).
• Legal fees: for lawyer due diligence (commonly 1–2%).
• Land Registry / Cadastre fees and administration costs.
• VAT (ΦΠΑ): applies to new builds sold by a developer — often 24% on construction value (special rules possible).

Approximate total transactional costs (excluding VAT) are often in the 3–6% range of the purchase price, but confirm with local professionals.

Essential checks:

• Title deed (is seller the legitimate owner?).
• Any mortgages, liens or encumbrances registered against the property.
• Planning and building permits — confirm legal status of construction.
• Boundaries and access rights (is there legal access to the road/sea?).
• Outstanding local taxes, utility debts or fines.

A local lawyer or notary will perform a title search and advise on risk items.

Yes — many Greek banks lend to non-residents, though terms vary. Typical requirements include proof of income, down payment (often 20–40%), property valuation and a Greek bank account. Interest rates, loan-to-value ratios and approval speed depend on the lender and borrower profile.

Off-plan purchases often require staged payments (reservation deposit, installments, final payment) and may be subject to VAT. Check the developer’s track record, bank guarantees (if any), construction schedule, warranty terms and the final specifications included in the contract.

The notary drafts and notarises the final deed of sale and ensures formal registration. The buyer usually hires an independent lawyer to perform due diligence, review contracts and protect the buyer’s interests. Using both gives strong legal protection.

Timelines vary. A straightforward resale with clear title can complete in a few weeks after contracts and payments; more complex transactions, off-plan purchases, or cases with legal checks can take several months. Allow adequate time for due diligence and registration.

Short-term holiday rentals are common on the islands. You must register the property for tourist rental when required, declare rental income to tax authorities and comply with local rules (safety, licensing, tax). Many owners use local property managers to handle bookings, cleaning and maintenance.

Monthly and annual running costs include electricity, water, local municipality taxes, garbage collection, internet, insurance and maintenance. On islands, utilities can be slightly more expensive; factor these into your ROI calculations.

Greece is transitioning to a complete Cadastre system, but some properties may still be registered under the older registry system. Make sure your lawyer or notary confirms the registration status and that the deed matches current cadastral maps and boundaries to avoid future disputes.

Yes — buyers commonly use a notarised power of attorney (POA) to allow a lawyer or agent to sign on their behalf. Ensure the POA is specific, correctly authenticated (apostille may be required) and accepted by Greek authorities and the notary.

Owning property does not automatically grant residency (separate visa/residence rules apply). Inheritance follows Greek succession law unless otherwise stated in a will; non-EU buyers should get estate planning advice to align Greek rules with their home country arrangements.

Engage a local English/Dutch-speaking real estate agent, a Greek-licensed lawyer for due diligence, and a reputable notary for the final deed. If financing, contact banks or mortgage brokers experienced with international buyers. Local property managers are recommended for rental properties.