Question 1

Can I get a mortgage in Greece as an international buyer?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Greek banks do lend to non-residents and international buyers, though the criteria differ significantly from what applies to Greek tax residents. Deposit requirements are typically higher, income documentation is more complex, and not all banks will consider overseas-currency income the same way.

Question 2

How much deposit do I need to buy property in Greece?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your residency status and the lender. Greek tax residents can typically access up to 80% Loan-to-Value. For international buyers and non-Greek citizens, deposits are typically between 20–35% of the purchase price, with the exact requirement varying based on tax residency, citizenship, and the lender's own criteria. Additional purchase costs — including transfer tax, notary, legal, and registration fees — typically add 8–10% on top of the property price and should be factored into your budget from the outset.

Question 3

Is the deposit paid to the seller, or is it money I need in the bank?

Accepted Answer

Neither, exactly. When we say "deposit" (or down payment) we mean the share of the purchase price you fund yourself — the bank lends the remainder. Property price = your deposit + the bank's loan, and that split is what sets your Loan-to-Value (LTV). It isn't a fee paid to the bank; the bank simply needs evidence you hold the funds. It's also not the same as the reservation deposit you pay the seller to secure the property — although that payment normally counts toward your overall deposit. Your own funds are paid toward the purchase price at completion, usually through your lawyer or notary.

Question 4

What are the extra costs involved in buying property in Greece?

Accepted Answer

Beyond your deposit, buyers should budget for transfer tax (3.09%), notary fees, land registry registration, legal representation, and real estate agency commission — which together can add up to 8–10% of the purchase price. For those purchasing with a mortgage, additional bank costs and mortgage security registration fees (known as a pre-notation) also apply. Our calculator gives you a precise estimate before you commit to anything.

Question 5

How long does the mortgage process take in Greece?

Accepted Answer

Pre-approval timelines vary between banks, but you should typically allow 2–3 weeks. Where the requested loan amount is substantial, or the application involves complex income documentation, the process can extend to around 4 weeks. From pre-approval through to full approval and completion, international buyers should plan for 12–18 weeks in total — and being well-prepared with documentation from the start makes a significant difference.

Question 6

Do I need a Greek tax number (AFM) to buy property?

Accepted Answer

Yes — an AFM (Arithmos Forologikou Mitroou) is required for all property transactions in Greece, including opening a Greek bank account. Obtaining one as a non-resident requires specific steps and documentation.

Question 7

Can I manage the purchase process from abroad?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with the right support in place. Many international buyers complete Greek property purchases remotely through a Power of Attorney arrangement, with a local lawyer acting on their behalf. Coordinating banks, notaries, lawyers, and agents across time zones is where most buyers run into difficulty.

Question 8

Do you help find and inspect property, or only arrange the loan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Beyond matching you with a home loan, our Complete Purchase Management service coordinates the whole buying journey — property search and shortlisting, viewings and inspection coordination with trusted local professionals (agents, surveyors and engineers), and liaison with lawyers, notaries and your bank through to completion. Property sourcing and inspections are part of Complete Purchase Management, not the Discovery Session or Purchase Ready file.

Question 9

Do Greek banks finance off-plan purchases or construction loans?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Greek banks do finance both off-plan purchases and construction projects. For off-plan purchases, financing is available subject to lender criteria and the development's approval status. Construction loans are also offered, typically structured as staged drawdowns aligned to build milestones. Requirements, timelines, and documentation differ from a standard purchase mortgage.

Question 10

Will Greek banks accept my international income?

Accepted Answer

Some will, some won't — and the lenders that do often apply specific minimum income thresholds for international tax residents. The currency of your income, your employment type, and your country of tax residency all affect how your application is assessed and which lenders are likely to consider you.

Question 11

I'm Greek but live abroad — can I still get a Greek mortgage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Greek expats are assessed differently from both local residents and international buyers — typically falling into their own residency bracket with specific LTV limits and documentation requirements. Understanding which category you fall into is the first step.

Question 12

What's the difference between a fixed and variable rate mortgage in Greece?

Accepted Answer

Fixed rates offer repayment certainty for a set period, while variable rates (typically linked to Euribor) can move with market conditions. Greek lenders offer both, and the right choice depends on your timeline, risk appetite, and how long you plan to hold the property.

Frequently asked questions

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For international buyers

For Greek residents & expats

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