Greece Property Taxes and Buying Costs for Foreign Buyers in 2026
A Greek property budget should start with the purchase price, but it should never stop there. Foreign buyers need to allow for acquisition tax, professional fees, registration costs, annual property tax, accounting, insurance, maintenance and currency movement.
This article was reviewed on 19 May 2026. Tax treatment depends on the buyer, property and transaction structure, so use a Greek accountant and lawyer before signing.
Real estate transfer tax
The Ministry of Economy and Finance states that real estate transfer tax is payable by the buyer and is calculated at 3% on the taxable value of the transfer. AADE's non-resident tax guide adds that there is a 3% levy on the main tax in favour of municipalities and communities.
For many resale purchases, buyers describe this as an effective 3.09% transfer-tax cost before professional fees. The exact base and treatment should be checked by the notary and accountant for the specific property.
When the tax is paid
AADE's guide states that transfer tax is paid before drawing up the transfer contract. This matters for overseas buyers because funds need to be cleared, converted and available before the final signing date.
Do not wait until completion week to solve banking, source-of-funds or foreign exchange logistics.
ENFIA annual property tax
ENFIA is Greece's annual real estate ownership tax. The Ministry of Economy and Finance explains that it applies to rights in rem to real estate located in Greece and owned on 1 January each year. The calculation depends on property characteristics such as location, area, use, age, floor and facades, plus value-based elements.
AADE's guide for non-residents also notes the E9 real estate statement process after acquisition and describes ENFIA payment in up to ten monthly instalments. Your accountant should handle the registration and annual filing calendar.
Other buying costs to plan for
- Notary fees and deed preparation.
- Independent lawyer fees for title, contract and closing support.
- Land registry or cadastre registration fees.
- Engineer or survey costs for building condition, permits and unauthorised works.
- Translation, apostille and power-of-attorney costs for remote buyers.
- Real estate agent commission if agreed under the brokerage mandate.
- Bank, mortgage, valuation and foreign-exchange costs where relevant.
New-build and VAT caution
VAT treatment for new buildings has changed through suspension rules in recent years. Because the rules can affect the total cost materially, buyers should ask the notary and accountant to confirm whether the transaction is subject to transfer tax, VAT or another specific treatment before offer terms are finalised.
Ongoing ownership costs
After completion, budget for ENFIA, building common charges, utilities, insurance, accounting, property management, maintenance, repairs, rental compliance and income tax if the property is rented. Island and villa properties may also need garden, pool, water, security and seasonal opening or closing costs.
Practical next move
Ask your lawyer or accountant for a completion statement before you sign any binding agreement. It should show purchase price, tax, notary, registration, legal, engineering, agency, translation, banking and reserve amounts in one place.
