Finding a reliable estate agent in Greece is one of the most important steps to securing your dream home overseas. Here’s how to choose someone you can trust, what to expect from their services and what to ask before you commit to a property.
If you’re house hunting in Greece, working with a professional estate agent can make your experience not just smoother, but also safer. Your estate agent should act as your eyes, ears and guide – especially if you’re still based in the UK or US. From showcasing the local area to advising on renovation plans, they’re a vital part of your Greek buying team.
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Contents
- Why you need a Greek estate agent
- What makes a good agent?
- Licensing and regulation
- Questions to ask your agent
- How agent fees work
- Working effectively with your agent
- When you’re ready to buy
Why you need a Greek estate agent
Greek estate agents tend to be more hands-on than those in the UK and US. Many will not only line up property viewings but also offer advice on everything from utility setup and local taxes to finding a trustworthy plumber.
If you’re considering buying a renovation project, your agent can flag up potential red flags or practical concerns before you commit – potentially saving you from unexpected costs. For overseas buyers who can’t always visit in person, many Greek agents also offer video viewings and virtual consultations, helping you narrow down your list before booking flights.
What makes a good agent?
Your Overseas Home can connect you with reliable estate agents in Greece
Choosing the right estate agent can mean the difference between a frustrating search and a smooth, informed purchase. Here’s what to look for:
- Proactive and responsive communication
- Clear understanding of local property trends
- Helpful insights into neighbourhoods, transport links and lifestyle perks
- Willingness to answer detailed questions about each property
- English-speaking staff (unless you’re confident in Greek)
A great estate agent acts as your local source of truth. They’ll tell you which areas are best for year-round living, where to find the nearest hospital or English-speaking school and where to find the best internet speeds for remote working.
Find trusted estate agents in Greece
Licensing and regulation
All estate agents operating legally in Greece must hold a licence and register with the Chamber of Commerce. Reputable agents may also be members of:
- The Hellenic Association of Realtors (SEK)
- The International Federation of Real Estate Professionals (FIABCI)
- The European Confederation of Estate Agents (CEI)
These affiliations suggest a commitment to professional standards and ongoing training. However, with more than 2,500 agents in Athens alone, it’s worth doing your due diligence. Avoid anyone unwilling to share licensing details or those making unrealistic claims.
Questions to ask your agent
You’ll be making a significant financial decision, so don’t shy away from asking detailed questions. These can reveal useful information – and help you decide whether to proceed:
- How long has the property been on the market?
- Has the asking price changed?
- Have any offers been made?
- Are there comparable sales in the area?
- Why are the owners selling?
- Have there been any major refurbishments?
- Would the agent buy it themselves – and why or why not?
- Are there shared costs, such as maintenance or communal pools?
- Are there any restrictions on short- or long-term rentals?
- What local services and amenities are nearby?
A good estate agent will not only answer your questions but also anticipate the ones you haven’t thought of yet. Their insight could help you uncover hidden gems or walk away from risky investments.
How agent fees work
Estate agent fees in Greece aren’t regulated by the government. Fees typically range from 2% to 5% of the sale price and are often split between buyer and seller. Occasionally, the agent’s fee is absorbed into the total sale price.
Always clarify the arrangement before viewing properties to avoid surprises. Your agent should provide this in writing, ideally in both Greek and English. It’s also worth confirming whether VAT is included in the quoted rate.
Working effectively with your agent
Your agent can only help you if they fully understand what you want. Be upfront about your priorities: are you seeking a lock-up-and-leave island apartment or a rural farmhouse with room for renovations?
Be open to suggestions. If your agent recommends an area you hadn’t considered, it’s usually with good reason. Many buyers end up purchasing in locations they hadn’t originally planned for – especially when those areas offer better infrastructure, easier access to the airport or more stable rental returns.
When you’re ready to buy
Once you’ve found the right place, your estate agent will present your offer. You may be asked to pay a reservation deposit to take the property off the market. Before you do, ensure you have an AFM – that’s the Greek tax identification number you’ll need to proceed.
An estate agent may suggest using their recommended lawyer. While this is common practice and often well-intentioned, we strongly advise appointing your own independent legal expert to avoid any potential conflicts of interest.
Finally, a trustworthy estate agent will never rush or pressure you into a decision. Take your time, consult your lawyer and currency specialist, and negotiate with confidence. Your future life in Greece deserves careful planning – and that starts with the right support team.
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