Is buyer representation really necessary?

The real estate market in Greece is unregulated, extremely fragmented and frustratingly difficult to navigate. Also, most real estate agents represent the interests of the seller, not the buyer.  Our job is to make sure your needs are represented, while we navigate the complexities of the market on your behalf, and objectively guide you to property ownership. The only thing you need to worry about is having fun and enjoying the process.

In what parts of Greece do you offer your services?

While we are based in the Nafplio area, and thus have intimate knowledge and expertise in the local market and surrounding areas, we help clients find their dream property well beyond the local market. We work with a trusted network of agents and professionals in various regions across the Greek mainland and islands, thus we have you covered!

How reliable are online property search portals?

Greece lacks a nationwide system like MLS which is common in North America. This means buyers are left to rely on information found on property portals and individual agency websites. Unfortunately, such portals are riddled with inaccurate or dated listings, and often contradictory information from different sources regarding the same property. In addition, listed properties online represent only a limited share of all the available properties for sale. Our job is to focus your search on vetted and viable options, both on-and-off market, giving you real opportunities without the clutter.

What does your initial consultation cover, and are there any fees?

During our initial consultation, we discuss your short and long-term plans, your interests and personal preferences (property characteristics, location, timeline and budget), plus we answer key questions to help bring clarity to your property search and set expectations. You will get to know us, and we will get to know you. There is no cost for the consultation and zero obligation to proceed.

How much do your hired services cost?

In Greece, it is very common for both buyer and seller to pay a commission, usually around 2% of the purchase price. Even if you decide to navigate the complexities of the market yourself and deal with listing agents directly, this is the typical fee you can expect. With buyer representation, we do all of the heavy lifting for you. We search the whole market (instead of just pieces of it), we put your needs first and negotiate on your behalf, we put you in touch with professionals we trust, and spare you the unnecessary frustration you will most certainly encounter on your own. We will continue to help you even after you buy, and you will get 100% transparency at every step. For this service, we charge up to 4% depending on various factors, and we always negotiate terms our clients feel are worthy and fair.

Can you help us with getting our residency permit or citizenship?

We do not consult directly on matters involving citizenship or residency as there are legal implications well beyond our area of expertise. Instead, we are happy to refer you to trusted professionals within our network who are well-versed in immigration law and can best assist you.

How long does the process take to purchase a home in Greece?

The time-frame for the search itself depends on many factors which is why it is imperative to identify your true needs and expectations from the start. Once we know exactly what you're looking for, we begin a full-market search and present you with a list of options within a very short time-frame. Your availability to review the presented options, provide feedback and visit properties will all factor in. From the time an offer is presented and accepted, the legal and technical due diligence processes begin. If there are no issues found, and there are no delays with respect to securing financing, etc., then it is quite possible a rapid closing may be achieved within 60 days. If there is an unforeseen issue found, then the severity of the issue will dictate the length of the delay. On average, most closings happen within 2-4 months. Newly-constructed properties tend to close much faster, while older properties with multiple owners typically take longer.

Besides the purchase price of the property, what other fees will I need to pay?

It is safe to budget an additional 10-12% of the purchase price for closing costs. This includes lawyer's fees, notarial fees, buyer agency fees, land transfer tax, land registry fee, engineer inspection, the cost to issue a tax ID (AFM), and appointing a power of attorney (if needed).

Can I buy a property in Greece from abroad?

Yes. We can conduct property visits via video-conference if needed. Once your ideal property is found, and offer is accepted, your hired lawyer may sign all necessary paperwork on your behalf via a Power of Attorney.

What if my preferred property needs a lot of work? Can you help?

Absolutely! We also offer renovation consulting services as part of our portfolio. Frank, our construction expert, has over 40 years of construction / renovation experience in Canada, and has also renovated numerous properties in Greece since our move here in 2021. He can be present during property visits as well to offer his insights on renovation work needed, methods and material costs. Our clients find this to be an invaluable service, and take it seriously into account when making their purchase decisions. He is also available to project manage the renovation work when the time comes.

Are your vacation properties available only for short-term rentals?

During the summer months, the majority of our clients rent them for short-term stays. However, they can be rented for monthly or longer-term stays during the rest of the year. We have had numerous clients (buyers) choose to stay in one of our rentals as their home base while searching for property to buy in the area.