Whether you are searching for a vacation home, an investment opportunity, or a new place to call your home, the process of buying a house, especially in a foreign country, can be very exciting but also daunting.

That's why our goal is to provide you with comprehensive information and practical tips to make your property purchase in Greece as seamless as possible. Through our experience in the market during the last 2 decades, we have been able to break down the property research process into clear steps that you can follow, ensuring that you will be making an informed decision on the very important matter of acquiring your next real estate property in Greece.

Here are the very first steps you should consider when embarking on the search for your dream house in Greece.
1. Define Your Wishlist: Start by reflecting on what you truly desire in a home. Determine the type of property that suits your needs, such as a house, apartment, villa, or townhouse. Consider factors like size, layout, and the number of bedrooms and bathrooms. List the specific features and amenities that are important to you. This could include a garden, swimming pool, balcony, garage, or a specific architectural style. Consider whether you wish to live in a lively neighborhood or would rather live in a calm, isolated location. The desired distances from local amenities, an airport or a hospital are also factors to evaluate. During this step it is also very important to identify what is an absolute necessity for you and what could be negotiated. E.g.: A pool would be very nice, but if the house is very close to the sea, it could be ok to not have one.

2. Consider Usage and Lifestyle: Determine how you plan to use the property. Will it be your primary residence, a vacation home, or an investment property? Consider your lifestyle preferences and how the property should cater to your needs. For example, if you enjoy outdoor activities, proximity to nature or recreational areas may be important.

3. Future Growth: Anticipate your future needs and assess whether the property has the potential to accommodate them. Consider factors like potential expansion, room for modifications, or the possibility of generating rental income if desired.

4. Set a Realistic Budget: Establish a clear budget range based on your financial situation and long-term goals. Consider not only the purchase price but also the additional costs of buying a house (you can find more about your expenses here), the property taxes, and potential renovations. This will help you focus your search on properties that align with your financial capabilities. It is also worth finding out if you are eligible for a Golden Visa. During this step, you should also determine whether you need to apply for a bank loan and whether you are eligible for one.

5. Prioritize Location: Explore different regions in Greece and evaluate their suitability based on your lifestyle and preferences. Research the amenities, infrastructure, and attractions available in each area. Whether you prefer coastal areas, historic towns, or bustling urban centers, prioritize locations that resonate with your vision of an ideal home. After all, the most famous motto in real estate is ‘’Location, location, location!’’. We have compiled, for your convenience, several information about the different regions of the Peloponnese peninsula here.

6. Engage with Real Estate Professionals: Seek assistance from reputable real estate professionals, like Skouras Real Estate, who have extensive knowledge of the local real estate market & have built a network of experienced & trusted professionals (e.g. lawyers, engineers, notaries etc.). They can provide guidance, insights into local trends, and access to a wide range of properties that match your criteria. Their expertise will streamline your search and enhance your decision-making process.

7. Visit and Compare Properties: Once you have identified potential properties, schedule viewings to experience them firsthand. Take note of essential factors such as property condition, layout, natural lighting, and surrounding neighborhood. Make comparisons between properties, considering their features, advantages, and any potential drawbacks. A useful tip for this last step is to not visit too many properties. It can be a lot more productive to spend a few more in the office, discussing with an expert, rather than driving around all day long, visiting a dozen houses.

Once you have completed these first steps, you will be ready to move on and make an offer for your selected property. You can learn more about the steps that follow here.