The short answer
Buyers from abroad can purchase property in Greece. The process runs through a few fixed steps: a Greek tax number, a Greek bank account, an independent lawyer, a contract signed before a notary, and registration with the land registry. Much of it can be handled by your lawyer under a power of attorney, so you do not need to be in Greece for every step.
Step by step
1. Get a Greek tax number
Every buyer needs a Greek tax identification number (AFM). It is issued by the tax authority, and your lawyer can apply for it on your behalf.
2. Open a Greek bank account
The purchase price and the taxes on it are paid through the banking system. A Greek account makes those payments straightforward and documents where the funds came from.
3. Appoint an independent lawyer
Your lawyer checks the title and the building permits, reviews the contract and represents you through the purchase. With a power of attorney, they can sign documents on your behalf.
4. Reserve your residence
Once you have chosen a residence, it is reserved for you while the contract is prepared.
5. Sign the contract before a notary
In Greece, property contracts are drawn up and signed before a notary public, who confirms the identity of the parties and that the taxes due have been paid.
6. Register the property
The signed contract is registered with the Hellenic Cadastre, which records you as the owner.
Costs to budget for
Alongside the purchase price, buyers pay notary, lawyer and land registry fees, and either property transfer tax or VAT, depending on the property. Your lawyer will confirm the exact amounts before you commit.
Buying at Creta Hills
- Fixed prices by phase: €290,000 for the first 14 residences (Phases 1 and 2), €315,000 in Phase 3 and €350,000 in Phase 4. See the master plan.
- Turn-key delivery: residences are handed over furnished, equipped and ready to use, with no fit-out stage and no furniture budget. See the residence.
- A choice of returns: join the hotel residence programme with the Guaranteed or the Dynamic model, or keep the residence for your own use. See the investment model.
- Managed for you: the residence is operated by an independent management company working with the 5-star RG Village Crete next door. See how it works.
Before you buy
Read the guide to real estate investment in Crete, see why invest in Crete, or contact us to arrange a call or a visit to the site.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Your lawyer will advise on your own situation.
