Accommodation in Greece

Rentals in Athens and Greece are far cheaper than in many other European countries. One can find a single bedroom flat in Athens for as little as €150 per month, though this will be cutting the quality more than just a little. Even so, €300 will find a very decent place for a single person. Northern and southern Athens are expensive with better value in west Athens. Thesseloniki will be cheaper, especially in living expenses, but for low end rentals the savings will not be massive. Rural Greece on the other hand can be a real bargain, both buying and renting.

 

Normally there will be a deposit of up to two month’s rent plus pay the first month in advance. Generally the longer the lease, the lower the monthly cost. It important to do an inventory on arriving to make sure that nothing is broken that will be charged for on departure. Most places will charge a common fee for heating and elevator expenses, the size of the fee will be related to the size of the flat and how much oil has been burnt in heating the building. Tenants that make a lot of calls may be asked to leave a phone deposit, to make sure that there is money for covering the upcoming phone bill if they leave unexpectedly.

 

It’s worth asking around the town's cafés and bars for places to stay. The Greeks have a tradition of keeping inherited property to rent so there are a lot of rentals floating on the market and often a family member (three or four times removed) is renting out a place. Athens News is an English newspaper with a useful classified section, but prices tend to be somewhat higher than in the Greek classifieds.
 

Buying property in Greece can be a wonderful opportunity to gain a little piece of paradise. Seaside property will always cost more than inland and because of the many ancient sights a fair portion of the country is restricted. One can buy for as little as €50 000 in the right area. A house in Athens on the other hand will start at €80 000.

 

It is adviseable to hire a misitis or real estate agent, who usually charges 2%, as many Greek target foreign buyers and a Greek speaker can often find the better deal. The buyer of any property will then pay a property tax of about 10% of purchase price.

 

For almost any sizeable purchase, Greek law states that the purchaser must hire a lawyer. This is advisable anyway as the lawyer will search out the title deeds and make sure the seller owns the place. A civil engineer will have to be hired to make sure that the house is entitled to electric and water connections, and that the land that is being sold is indeed part of the property. The a notary will have to be hired for another 2% to finalise the purchase and signing over of the property.

 

English Language News: www.athensnews.gr

Classifieds: www.expatriates.com/classifieds

Classifieds: www.greece.gabinohome.com

Classifieds: www.athens.craigslist.gr/apa