Quick answer: Beyond the purchase price, budget roughly 8–12% in taxes and fees to buy property in Greece. The main items are the 3.09% property transfer tax, notary fees (~1–2%), lawyer fees (~1–2%), the estate-agent fee (~2–3% + VAT) and land-registry costs (~0.8%). On a €300,000 apartment, total acquisition costs typically land around €26,000–€33,000.

Knowing the headline price of a property is only half the story. To budget properly — and avoid surprises at the notary — you need the full picture of one-time purchase costs, ongoing annual taxes, and the easy-to-forget extras. Here is the complete breakdown for 2026.

Worked Example: Buying a €300,000 Apartment

Here is a realistic estimate for a resale apartment (no VAT). The estate-agent fee is shown as a range because agencies typically charge 2–3% + VAT. Actual figures vary with the property and professionals you use.

That is roughly 9–10% on top of the price in this scenario — within the typical 8–12% range.

• ENFIA (annual property tax) — based on size, location, floor and age; commonly a few hundred to a couple of thousand euros a year for an Athens apartment.
• Building/common charges — for apartments in a block (cleaning, lift, shared utilities).
• Utilities & insurance — electricity, water, and optional building/contents insurance.
• Rental income tax (if you let) — 15% up to €12,000, 35% to €35,000, 45% above — on net profit, so expenses are deductible.

Costs When You Sell

A 15% capital-gains tax exists in law but its application to individuals has been repeatedly suspended, making it effectively €0 for most private sellers at present. When selling, your main cost is the estate-agent fee. Always confirm the current position with your advisor at the time of sale.

Easy-to-Forget Extras

• Official translations and apostilles of foreign documents
• Power-of-attorney costs if you buy remotely
• A technical/engineering survey of the property
• Bank transfer and currency-exchange charges on international payments

How to Budget

A safe rule of thumb is to add 10% to the purchase price for acquisition costs, then set aside an annual allowance for ENFIA and running costs. Nest Land provides every client with a clear, itemised cost estimate up front — and manages tax payments, the notary process and ongoing obligations on your behalf, so there are no surprises.

What is the total cost of buying property in Greece?

Around 8–12% on top of the purchase price, covering the 3.09% transfer tax plus notary, lawyer, agent (2–3% + VAT) and registry fees.

Who pays the property transfer tax in Greece?

The buyer. It is 3.09% of the taxable value and must be paid before the final deed is signed.

Do I pay VAT when buying in Greece?

Only on brand-new properties sold for the first time by a developer (24%), and even that has often been suspended. Most resale purchases are subject to the 3.09% transfer tax instead.

What are the annual costs of owning property in Greece?

Mainly ENFIA (the annual property tax), plus building/common charges, utilities and any income tax if you rent the property out.