Skip to main content
Chróni & Associates Law Firm& Associates Law Firm · Athens

Property Investment in Greece

What a lawyer checks before you buy property in Greece

A practical account of the legal checks that should be completed before any deposit is paid on a Greek property.

Article cover reading “What a lawyer checks before you buy property in Greece”, with a balcony of an Athens apartment at dusk

Who owns the property, and can they sell it?

The first enquiry is the chain of title: how the current owner acquired the property, whether that acquisition was properly registered, and whether anyone else holds a competing right. In older Greek properties, inherited shares and unregistered transfers are the most common cause of delay.

Is the building lawful?

Building permits, planning status and any regularisation of unauthorised construction are examined against what is physically present. Discrepancies affect value, resale and, in some cases, the ability to transfer at all.

What is attached to the property?

Mortgage and claims registry searches reveal encumbrances, seizures and pending litigation. Findings are set out in a written report with a recommendation: proceed, renegotiate, require remediation, or withdraw.

Related questions

  • Can I buy property in Greece remotely?
  • What taxes apply on a Greek property purchase?
  • How long does a Greek property transaction take?

Sources

  • Hellenic Cadastre
  • Greek Civil Code provisions on property transfer

The information on this website is general in nature, is not legal advice and does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Legal requirements change and apply differently to individual circumstances. Please obtain tailored advice before acting.

Consultation

Begin with a clear understanding of your options

Tell us briefly what you are trying to achieve. We will confirm whether we can help, who would handle the matter and how fees would work, before any commitment.

Office
73 Skoufa Street, Kolonaki, 10680 Athens, Greece

A short summary is enough. Please do not send confidential or sensitive information at this stage.

Request a Consultation