Purchase taxes
Tax can differ depending on whether the seller is a private individual or VAT-registered business and whether any primary-home treatment applies. Obtain a property-specific calculation rather than applying a single online percentage.
Professional and registration costs
Budget for the notary, land registry fees, independent legal advice and technical checks by a civil engineer or surveyor where appropriate. A bank valuation is separate from legal and technical due diligence.
Mortgage and banking costs
Possible items include valuation, application or arrangement costs, mortgage-related taxes, insurance and account-related charges. Ask for written product information and a clear explanation before accepting finance.
Currency and ownership costs
Allow for conversion spreads, utilities, insurance, maintenance, building charges where relevant, local property taxes and non-resident obligations. Retain a contingency for repairs and furnishing.
Why online percentages can mislead
Greek purchase tax is not always calculated from one universal percentage of the advertised price. The seller's status, objective (tax) value, buyer's residence intentions, property category and applicable reliefs can affect the result. Ask the notary or tax advisor for a written estimate based on the exact transaction and keep a margin for items that are not yet confirmed.
Budget for technical and condition risks
The cost plan should include more than conveyancing. A civil engineer or surveyor may be needed to compare the property with land registry and planning records, review renovation permissions or assess visible defects. Older roofs, drainage, retaining walls, boat-only or unpaved access, heating systems and building works can materially change the first years of ownership.
Practical checklist
- Request a property-specific tax estimate.
- Obtain legal and technical quotations.
- Check mortgage and valuation costs.
- Plan currency conversion.
- Review annual ownership costs.
- Retain a repair contingency.
Questions US buyers ask
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This guide is general information, not personal financial, legal, tax or currency advice. Mortgage availability is subject to credit, income, valuation and lender criteria.