You’re nearly there! After navigating contracts, due diligence and legal checks, you’re just a signature away from stepping into your new Greek home. Here’s exactly what happens at the final stage of the property purchase process…
You’ve found your dream home in Greece, agreed the price and completed all the legal checks. Now, the finish line is in sight – but don’t pop open the ouzo just yet! The final step, known as completion, involves signing the property deed and officially transferring ownership into your name.
Whether you’re planning to attend the notary in person or have your lawyer represent you, understanding the process can help avoid last-minute surprises and ensure a stress-free handover.
Contents
- Final steps in completing a property purchase in Greece
- What does the notary do in Greece?
- Do you need Power of Attorney?
- Tips for a smooth completion
- Frequently asked questions
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Final steps in completing a property purchase in Greece
Once you’ve signed your reservation agreement and completed legal checks, the last milestone is signing the final contract of sale – known in Greek as the Συμβόλαιο. This legal deed officially transfers ownership and allows you to collect the keys.
You’ll usually sign the deed at the notary’s office, often with the seller present. If you’re unable to travel to Greece, your lawyer can attend and sign for you under Power of Attorney (PoA). On completion day, the remaining balance is paid along with taxes and legal fees, and ownership is legally transferred.
What does the notary do in Greece?
The notary (συμβολαιογράφος) plays a critical but impartial role. They’re responsible for validating the sales contract and ensuring all legal requirements are fulfilled. Although they are legally trained, notaries in Greece represent the state, not either party – so they do not act in your personal interest.
That’s why it’s strongly recommended to have your own independent Greek lawyer as well. Your lawyer will ensure your interests are protected during the final signing and beyond.
Both parties – or their legal representatives – must attend the notary appointment to sign the deed. Once it’s signed and sealed, the property is legally yours.
Notary fees are governed by law and are generally shared. Buyers typically cover the title deed costs. Here’s a rough guide to what you can expect:
| Cost item | Who pays? | Estimated cost |
|---|---|---|
| Notary fees | Buyer & seller (shared) | Around 2% of property value |
| Title deed registration | Buyer | Varies by region |
Do you need Power of Attorney?
Power of Attorney gives your Greek lawyer the authority to act on your behalf during the purchase process, including signing the final deed. If you’re unable to travel for completion, this is often the simplest solution.
However, there’s a fee for drafting and validating the PoA. Some buyers prefer to attend in person to experience the final moment of their Greek property journey – and perhaps even meet the seller.
If you choose to use PoA, you’ll need to have the documents drafted in Greek, witnessed by a notary (or at a Greek consulate if signing from abroad) and officially translated.
Tips for a smooth completion
To make the final stage stress-free, here’s what you can do:
- Apply for your AFM (Greek tax ID number) early. Your lawyer or accountant can help with this.
- Ensure your funds are in place ahead of time, especially if you’re a cash buyer.
- Use a specialist for your currency transfer to lock in favourable rates and avoid bank fees – we recommend Smart Currency Exchange.
- Provide your lawyer with all required documentation, including your passport, tax number and bank details for transfers.
- Be clear on your preferred completion date and make sure your lawyer is too.
Frequently asked questions
How do I transfer ownership of property in Greece?
Ownership transfers when the final deed (Συμβόλαιο) is signed before a Greek notary. Your independent lawyer will confirm the property is legally clear, arrange your AFM (Greek tax number) and draft the contract. On completion day you pay the balance, applicable taxes and fees, then sign at the notary (or your lawyer signs under Power of Attorney). The deed is then lodged with the Land Registry or Cadastre to register you as owner. After registration, update utilities and local accounts in your name.
How do you reduce capital gains tax on Greece property?
Tax rules change, so always check the current position with a Greek tax adviser. In general, you can legitimately reduce any potential capital gains bill by keeping detailed records of improvement costs and selling costs to increase your cost basis, confirming if any exemptions or suspensions apply in the year of sale, and planning your holding period. Accurate documentation and professional advice are essential.
How do I buy a house in Greece as a UK citizen?
UK citizens can buy property in Greece without restriction. The steps are: get an AFM (Greek tax number), appoint an independent lawyer, agree terms and pay a reservation if required, complete legal checks, then sign the final deed at the notary and register it. If you plan longer stays beyond the standard Schengen allowance, explore visa options (for example residency routes or the golden visa, subject to current investment thresholds). Opening a Greek bank account can help with ongoing bills, though many buyers manage payments from abroad and through their lawyer or property manager.
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