The center of Greek culture and the birthplace of democracy, Athens may as well be one of the most historic and iconic places on the planet. With a brilliant past and an even more promising future, living in Athens means living in the presence of amazing monuments, a variety of cosmopolitan cafes, awarded restaurants, vibrant nightclubs, an array of cultural clubs and breathtaking beaches, all gathered in the very same place.
Worth knowing about Athens
Athens, in its 2,929 km2, encloses about 3,153,355 people - with an approximate density of 17,040/km2 - who are able to enjoy Athens’ 60 subway stations, many parks, more than 30 beaches and about 52 museums every day. Its more than 20.000 doctors and 3.000 drug stores make sure that Athens’ residents are not only entertained but feel safe as well.
How is the Real Estate Market in Athens?
The Athenian property market is definitely on the rise and has been showing major signs of improvement the past two years, competing head to head with the German market and that of New Zealand. Buyers from all over the world, as well as native ones, choose Athens as the place of their main or vacation residence or as a very good and trustworthy investment. Although there seem to be some particular areas that gather the main interest, such as Neo Iraklio or Elliniko, it’s safe to say that all of the city’s areas are very popular and each one of them has something different to offer.
What types of properties can be found in Athens?
Are you looking for Athnes property for sale? One thing that has always been an integral part of Athens’ beauty is its buildings. Famous for its neoclassical architecture, Athens has a rich variety of beautiful properties that wait for their new owner.
- Newly-built properties
- Modern Apartments
- Beautiful contemporary apartments
- Maisonettes
- Classical one-story houses from the interwar period, with an urban or coastal views
What are the advantages of buying a property in Athens?
The advantages of living in Greece are really easy to count; the warmth of its residents, the rich nightlife, the mesmerizing beauty, the historic monuments, all play their part in making your stay unforgettable. All these perks are at their highest when it comes to living in Athens. As the center of Greece, it’s the heart of everything this famous country has to offer. And don’t let the fact that it’s a city fool you: despite its urban background - which is indeed full of life, cultural events and action – Athens also has a variety of enchanting beaches and charming sceneries, offering the best of both worlds, the lively pace of the city combined with the calming presence of nature.
For the purchase of real estate property, the following are required:
- a valid passport
- a Greek tax identification number (AFM*)
- a certificate from the responsible tax office about the payment of the land transfer tax
What are the Costs and Taxes on Property Purchase?
The purchase costs & taxes for the purchase of property in Greece, are the following:
- Land register costs, imposed for the registration of the property at the land registry or cadaster office, amount to 1,0% of the fair value.
- Other costs such as the legal review of ownership (of at least around € 150) must also be considered.
- Real estate property transfer tax, which arises with the acquisition of real estate property or the acquisition of real rights upon property and is paid in principle by the buyer, before the notarial certification of the real estate property purchase. The current rate of land transfer tax is 3.09% of the purchase price.
- Notarization costs or notarial costs, always borne by the buyer, unless there is a different regulation. The basis of assessment used is the purchase price or the so-called unit value. Always apply the higher value. The certification costs are on average 1,5% plus VAT 24% of the underlying value.
More information about properties in Greece here.
