Step 1: Appoint a Local Lawyer (Power of Attorney recommended)
It is highly recommended to appoint a local lawyer who understands Greek property law and speaks your language. Most clients choose to give their lawyer a Power of Attorney (PoA), allowing them to handle all legal matters on your behalf—even when you are not in Greece. This makes the process much easier and more secure, especially for international buyers.
Step 2: Obtain a Greek Tax Number (AFM)
To buy property in Greece, you need a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM). Your lawyer will apply for this on your behalf. It is a personal number used for all legal and financial transactions in Greece, including property purchase, banking, and utilities.
Step 3: Open a Greek Bank Account
You will also need to open a Greek bank account. This account is used to transfer the funds for the property and to pay taxes and fees. Having a local bank account is important to show the legal flow of money into the country and to comply with financial regulations.
Step 4: Property Due Diligence by Lawyer
Your lawyer will conduct a full legal check of the property before any contracts are signed. This includes confirming the property’s ownership, ensuring there are no debts, mortgages, legal disputes, or irregularities. The lawyer checks the property’s registration either in the Land Registry (Ipothikofilakio) or in the National Cadastre (Ktimatologio), depending on the area.
Step 5: Issue Energy Performance and Legality Certificates
Before the final contract can be signed, the seller must provide two legal documents:
- An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) issued by a certified energy inspector.
- A Certificate of Legality, signed by a licensed engineer, confirming that the property complies with building regulations and has no illegal modifications.
These certificates must be issued no more than two months before signing.
Step 6: Sign the Pre-Agreement
In some cases, especially when a deposit is paid, a Preliminary Agreement (or Reservation Agreement) is signed. This document outlines the key terms of the sale, such as the price and timeline. While not legally required, it gives both parties clarity and commitment before proceeding to the final contract.
Step 7: Pay the Property Transfer Tax
Before the final sale, you must pay the Property Transfer Tax, which is 3% of the officially declared property value. Your lawyer will handle the tax declaration and payment to the Greek Tax Office. A proof of payment must be presented to the notary before the signing of the contract.
Step 8: Sign the Notarised Contract of Sale
The official Contract of Sale is signed in the presence of a Greek notary public. The notary ensures that the transaction is legal and transparent. The contract includes all important terms: property details, buyer and seller obligations, and payment conditions. If you have given a Power of Attorney, your lawyer can sign this contract on your behalf.
Step 9: Register the Contract with the Land Registry or Cadastre
After signing, the contract must be registered with the local Land Registry or National Cadastre. This is a vital legal step—ownership is only transferred when the contract is properly registered. Your lawyer will handle this process and provide you with proof of registration.
Step 10: Final Ownership Transfer Confirmed
Once the contract is registered and all legal steps are complete, you officially become the legal owner of the property. You will receive a certificate of ownership and copies of all registered documents. Kreta Eiendom team can also help with post-sale services such as setting up utility accounts or managing the property if needed.
“By hiring Kreta Eiendom, the legal process of buying a property will be much easier than you imagine. We do it all!”
Lawyer, Kreta Eiendom