Between antiquity and modernity - buying real estate in Greece

Interview with Natalie Leontaraki, licensed partner at VON POLL REAL ESTATE Athens/Greece

Breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear water, pristine beaches, indescribable sunsets and iconic ancient buildings - Greece impresses in many ways. Its capital Athens is considered one of the most historic cities in Europe and also the cradle of democracy. Thanks to its mix of culture, history and nature, the country is increasingly attracting the attention of international buyers.

Natalie Leontaraki, license partner at VON POLL REAL ESTATE Athens/Greece, has many years of experience in the Greek real estate market and is an expert for premium and luxury properties - not only in Athens, the Peloponnese and its Riviera, but also on the Aegean islands, the Cyclades. Together with her team, she assists buyers on their way to real estate. International prospective buyers play an essential role in the Greek real estate market.

Ms. Leontaraki, please give us a brief overview - what is the current situation on the Greek real estate market?

The market is still on the rise. According to the latest figures from the Bank of Greece, property prices in urban areas rose by 6.2 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025. They had already recorded an increase of 8.6 percent in 2024. This sustained growth underlines the confidence in the country's economic prospects and the continued attractiveness of real estate as a safe investment or second home. A key driver here is the continuing high demand from international buyers, particularly in island and coastal regions, where lifestyle appeal is combined with strong investment potential. The strong tourism sector also plays an essential role, as it additionally boosts demand for short and long-term rental properties.

Overall, the market environment remains dynamic, supported by economic stability, inflows of international capital and continuous infrastructure improvements, such as modernized airports or the expansion of marinas and the road network.

You just mentioned the importance of the international clientele. How big is their share of the Greek real estate market?

International buyers remain a decisive force in the Greek real estate market and account for more than 30 percent of transactions nationwide. In premium destinations such as Mykonos, Corfu, the Cyclades or the Athens Riviera, this figure is even over 70 percent in some cases. Most investors come from Northern Europe and the United Arab Emirates, although interest from the USA and other international markets continues to grow. This clientele not only appreciates the Greek quality of life, but also the attractive yields, especially in hotspots such as Mykonos, Paros or Corfu.

Do most of them tend to buy for their own use or are they more interested in renting? And is there a difference between the mainland and the islands?

Most international buyers purchase properties that serve a dual purpose: Firstly as a personal retreat or second home, and secondly as a high-yielding asset that generates rental income and is often optimized for remote working and extended stays. Demand for premium vacation properties is particularly strong on the islands - Mykonos and Corfu lead the transaction volume, closely followed by Crete and Paros. For many international investors, these properties are not just second homes, but often third or even fourth homes.

In contrast, buyers on the mainland - particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki - show a stronger tendency towards longer-term residential use and good rentability. Nevertheless, lifestyle remains an important factor in all regions, as Greece's mix of cultural appeal, economic stability and Mediterranean quality of life makes real estate purchases very attractive.

What is particularly important to international prospective buyers when looking for real estate?

Location and accessibility is and remains the decisive factor. The majority are looking for panoramic views, proximity to the sea and beaches. There is also the desire for good connections to airports or marinas. A well-developed infrastructure - reliable utilities, road connections and services - increases the attractiveness considerably.

In addition to the location, the condition and readiness for occupancy of the property are also of decisive importance. Many buyers prefer modern, turnkey villas with high-quality fittings that can be used immediately and generate rental income without further investment.

In which price range is international demand particularly active?

In general, buyers from the United Arab Emirates and Northern Europe dominate the upper premium segment - they are looking for prestige properties over 2 to 3 million euros. In contrast, buyers from Italy, France and the Balkans are more active in the lower premium segment and focus on properties between 500,000 and one million euros.

On Mykonos, entry-level prices start at an average of 1.5 million euros, Corfu is at around 1 million euros, Paros at around 700,000 euros and Crete offers high-quality properties from around 500,000 euros.

You have already emphasized the high rental potential several times. Do you advise your clients to opt for short-term or long-term rentals?

In our premium and luxury market, short-term rentals are by far the preferred option. Buyers want to benefit from Greece's strong seasonal tourism and good rentability. We therefore recommend investing in properties located in exclusive island regions or coastal areas with excellent infrastructure.

Where are the most exciting new-build projects? And for which target group are they particularly interesting?

The most exciting new-build projects are those that combine sustainability, cutting-edge design and wellness facilities - especially on Crete, Paros and the Ionian Islands. These projects appeal to discerning buyers looking for turnkey dream properties with strong investment potential.

What should potential buyers in your region look out for - and what special features apply to the international clientele?

International buyers benefit from an uncomplicated and transparent purchasing process. Nevertheless, there are some aspects to consider - including local building regulations and the rules of the Golden Visa program, which has increased the minimum investment in certain regions. To ensure a safe purchase, we recommend always consulting experienced local consultants.

How do international prospective buyers benefit from your network and experience?

At VON POLL REAL ESTATE Athens/Greece, buyers can expect comprehensive support throughout the entire buying process. Our team offers multilingual support and a network of experts - including lawyers, tax consultants, notaries, interior designers and architects. This allows clients to benefit from a single point of contact, providing security, efficiency and exclusive off-market offers.

Ms. Leontaraki, thank you very much for the interesting interview.

Further information about the team around Natalie Leontaraki from VON POLL REAL ESTATE Athens/Greece as well as the current real estate offer on site, contact details and much more can be found at https://www.von-poll.com/de/immobilienmakler/athens.