Buying a home in Greece may be one of the most exciting thing you ever do! However, the legal side can be unfamiliar territory. Hiring the right lawyer from the outset is one of the smartest steps you can take to protect your dream.
Greeceโs sun-drenched islands, historic villages and idyllic coastlines have long attracted overseas buyers. But behind the blue skies lies a property system that works very differently from the UK.
From title checks to planning rules and notaries, the Greek buying process involves a few new steps โ and thatโs where a qualified, English-speaking property lawyer becomes your most valuable ally.
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Contents
Why you need a lawyer when buying in Greece
Greeceโs legal system can feel daunting if youโre unfamiliar with it โ especially when the language (and even the alphabet!) are different. But donโt let that put you off. An experienced, English-speaking lawyer who acts solely in your interests can cut through the complexity and make the entire process feel far more manageable.
From reviewing contracts to confirming property boundaries, a Greek lawyer ensures your transaction is legally sound. They can also help with:
- Applying for residency visas if you’re from a non-EU country and plan to stay longer than 90 daysย within any 180-day period
- Understanding your tax obligations in Greece
- Complying with local laws if you plan to let the property
Non-EU buyers must apply to the Ministry of National Defence if buying on Greece’s borders or military bases. Your lawyer will help with this process and guide you through the paperwork.
How to choose a reputable Greek property lawyer
Hiring an independent, English-speaking lawyer with experience in international sales is essential. They should have:
- Membership of the local bar association
- Clear testimonials from overseas clients
- No conflicting ties with the estate agent or seller
While some estate agents may refer you to a lawyer, be sure they are acting solely in your interests. A truly independent lawyer will prioritise your protection, not a commission.
You can search online, ask for recommendations from other buyers or get in touch with a trusted expert via Your Overseas Home.
Speak to a Greece property expert
What your lawyer will do
Your lawyer will guide you from offer to ownership. Their responsibilities typically include:
- Carrying out due diligence checks
- Preparing and reviewing contracts
- Negotiating terms with the seller
- Advising on reservation contracts and deposits
- Working alongside the notary and estate agent
- Overseeing final signing and registration
Itโs smart to contact a lawyer early โ ideally before your viewing trip. If you fall in love with a home and want to reserve it, your lawyer will need to review the reservation contract straight away.
Understanding legal due diligence
One of your lawyerโs most important tasks is checking the propertyโs legal title. This means ensuring:
- The seller is the legal owner
- There are no debts or mortgages attached to the home
- The property complies with zoning and building regulations
If you’re planning to renovate, theyโll also check whether planning permission is likely to be granted. In Greece, even small structural changes may require approval.
What role does the notary play?
The notary acts on behalf of the Greek state and ensures the transaction is legally binding. They do not represent either party, so youโll still need your own legal support.
Your lawyer will coordinate with the notary, ensuring all documents are accurate. Notary fees range from 1-2% of the purchase price, and lawyer fees are generally similar.
Language barriers and legal documents
Greek legal contracts are complex and technical โ even native speakers can struggle with the jargon. Thatโs why itโs crucial to work with a lawyer who can:
- Explain each step in plain English
- Provide translated summaries of contracts
- Answer your questions clearly and patiently
Never feel pressured to sign anything you donโt fully understand. A good lawyer will support you throughout โ from your first enquiry to receiving the keys.
FAQs about buying in Greece
Common risks include old debts or legal claims, like an unpaid mortgage or tax bill, unlicensed or unauthorised building works, boundary or access disputes and properties inside protected zones (coastline, forestry or archaeological areas). You can also run into issues with shared areas in apartment buildings, missing utility connections and off-plan projects without guarantees. Avoid problems by using an independent lawyer, commissioning an engineerโs report and topographic plan, verifying planning/regularisation status and ring-fencing funds for taxes and fees.
A lawyer isnโt legally mandatory in every case, but in practice itโs strongly recommended. A qualified, independent lawyer will run title and debt checks at the Land Registry/Cadastre, review and negotiate contracts, coordinate with the notary, arrange sworn translations, and, if needed, act for you via power of attorney. They can also help you obtain a Greek tax number (AFM), open a bank account and ensure compliance if you plan to let the property.
It depends on location, property type and your future goals. City neighbourhoods with year-round demand and established island hubs tend to offer more resilient liquidity and rental potential, while very remote areas can be slower to resell. Factor in purchase costs (taxes, notary and legal fees), annual ENFIA property tax, maintenance and any licensing rules for holiday lets. If your income is in pounds but your purchase is in euros, manage currency risk. With sound due diligence and a medium-to-long-term view, many buyers achieve solid lifestyle and financial value.
