Friday 6 November 2026

Handelsblatt Reports: Greece's Real Estate Market Continues to Attract International Buyers

Greece is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for German property buyers and international investors. In a recent article, Handelsblatt, one of Germany's leading business newspapers, examines the growing demand for property in Greece, rising real estate prices, and the country's increasing appeal as a destination for permanent residence, retirement, and long-term property investment. The report also features market data and insights from FERIMMO, the real estate platform specialising in Greek properties.

Growing Demand for Property in Greece Among German Buyers

Greece is steadily evolving beyond its traditional reputation as a popular holiday destination. An increasing number of international buyers are considering purchasing property in Greece not only for vacations but also for permanent residence, retirement, or long-term investment.

The recent Handelsblatt report highlights this broader market trend and examines how the priorities of German property buyers are changing.

Beyond the Mediterranean lifestyle, factors such as property value, infrastructure, legal certainty, and long-term financial planning are becoming increasingly important in purchasing decisions.

This wider market development is also reflected in the search activity and sales figures recorded by FERIMMO. The platform's data supports the broader trend of growing German interest in Greek real estate:

70% increase in property searches from Germany over the past two years.
A threefold increase in property sales to German clients during the same period.
Growing interest in properties suitable for year-round living, particularly in Crete, the Peloponnese, Thessaloniki, and Halkidiki.

These figures represent FERIMMO's own market activity and provide additional evidence of the increasing international demand for property in Greece.

Where to Buy Property in Greece: Regions Worth Considering

Another key focus of the Handelsblatt report is the significant variation in property prices across Greece and the opportunities that remain available in different regions.

Areas combining attractive property prices, quality of life, and reliable infrastructure are particularly appealing to international buyers.

Crete: Attractive Properties and Year-Round Living

Crete remains one of the most sought-after destinations for international property buyers.

Greece's largest island offers established infrastructure, healthcare facilities, vibrant towns, and a wide variety of residential properties.

Outside the main tourist areas, more affordable opportunities can still be found. According to FERIMMO market information referenced by Handelsblatt, traditional country houses in Crete are available in some locations from approximately €1,800 per square metre.

Peloponnese: Coastal Living and Diverse Property Opportunities

The Peloponnese offers a combination of picturesque coastal towns, traditional villages, natural beauty, and a diverse selection of residential properties.

Depending on the location and condition, resale properties in certain areas are available at approximately €2,000 to €2,600 per square metre.

The region's improving infrastructure and accessibility also contribute to its attractiveness for buyers seeking a permanent residence or holiday home in Greece.

Thessaloniki and Halkidiki: Urban Infrastructure Meets Mediterranean Lifestyle

Northern Greece is also attracting increasing attention from international property buyers.

Thessaloniki combines the advantages of a major city with extensive amenities, healthcare services, and international transport connections.

Nearby Halkidiki is well known for its beautiful coastline, holiday homes, and seaside properties.

Together, these regions offer a wide range of opportunities for buyers looking for a balance between year-round living and Mediterranean leisure.

Pelion: An Attractive Alternative to Greece's Famous Islands

The Pelion peninsula is among Greece's lesser-known but particularly appealing property destinations.

Located between lush mountains and the Aegean Sea, the region combines traditional villages, authentic architecture, and scenic coastal landscapes.

Traditional country houses can still be found in some locations for less than €2,000 per square metre, making Pelion an interesting alternative to more expensive Mediterranean destinations.

All property prices mentioned are indicative figures based on market information referenced in the Handelsblatt report. Actual prices vary depending on location, property condition, size, and individual characteristics.

Greek Property Prices: Market Development and Outlook

The increasing international demand for Greek real estate has also contributed to rising property prices.

According to Bank of Greece figures cited by Handelsblatt, residential property prices have increased by almost 60% in nominal terms since 2020.

This development has been particularly noticeable in prime coastal locations and internationally renowned island destinations.

Premium properties on the Athens Riviera and popular islands such as Mykonos and Santorini command significantly higher prices than properties in many mainland regions.

Nevertheless, Greece continues to offer a broad range of opportunities across different price categories.

Buyers exploring less established locations, traditional properties, or areas outside major tourist destinations may still find comparatively affordable options.

As the market develops, careful location selection, property evaluation, and long-term planning are becoming increasingly important.

Retiring in Greece: Lifestyle, Property Ownership and Tax Considerations

An important aspect of the Handelsblatt report is Greece's growing appeal as a retirement destination, particularly among German buyers.

The Mediterranean climate, quality of life, and potentially lower living costs make the country attractive to people considering spending their retirement years abroad.

Under specific legal conditions, qualifying foreign retirees who transfer their tax residence to Greece may benefit from a special tax regime providing a 7% flat tax on certain foreign-source income for up to 15 years.

Eligibility depends on individual circumstances, applicable tax treaties, and the relevant legal requirements. Professional tax advice is therefore essential before relocating.

Beyond financial considerations, buyers planning to live in Greece permanently should carefully assess local healthcare facilities, transportation links, accessibility, and the availability of essential services throughout the year.

FERIMMO: Discover Properties and Real Estate Financing Solutions in Greece

The recent Handelsblatt coverage highlights the growing international significance of the Greek real estate market and the increasing interest among foreign property buyers.

As Marios Christodoulou, CEO of FERIMMO, emphasised in his comments to Handelsblatt: “Buyers are specifically looking for asset protection, legal certainty and long-term predictability in Southern Europe.”

FERIMMO is an online real estate platform specialising in properties throughout Greece, connecting international buyers with a diverse selection of property opportunities.

Through FERIMMO, buyers can explore houses, apartments, holiday homes, traditional country properties, luxury villas, and other real estate opportunities across numerous Greek regions.

The platform offers property listings, targeted search options, and information to help international buyers explore the Greek property market.

In addition to property listings, FERIMMO also offers real estate financing solutions for property purchases in Greece.

This allows prospective buyers to explore available properties while also learning about financing options that may support their plans to purchase real estate in Greece.

By combining property search functionality, market information, and financing opportunities, FERIMMO provides a convenient starting point for international buyers interested in Greek real estate.

Looking to Buy Property in Greece?

Discover properties across Greece and explore available real estate financing options at www.ferimmo.de.

FERIMMO – Your Platform for Real Estate and Property Financing in Greece.

Source: Handelsblatt, Gerd Höhler, “Immobilien: Warum Griechenland für deutsche Rentner attraktiv ist”, originally published on 31 October 2026.

Read the original Handelsblatt article

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