Buying and owning property
Buying Property in Glyfada in 2026: A Complete Guide for Foreigners
The Property Acquisition Process in Glyfada
Buying an apartment or villa in Glyfada as a foreigner follows a well-defined procedure. The success of the transaction depends on proper document preparation and thorough due diligence of the property.
1. Defining Goals and Budget
Before starting your search, you must clearly define the purpose of the property:
- Permanent residence.
- Long-term rental.
- Investment asset.
- Participation in the Golden Visa program.
In addition to the property price, it is important to budget for additional costs: taxes, notary fees, legal fees, engineering fees, registration charges, and agency commissions.
2. Obtaining a Tax Identification Number (AFM)
To complete a transaction, a foreigner needs a Greek tax number (AFM) and access to the Taxisnet system. This can be handled by a representative via power of attorney. The buyer will need a passport, proof of residence, proof of funds, and bank details.
3. Selecting the Property
When choosing property in Glyfada, pay attention to:
- Year of construction and condition of engineering systems.
- Legality of the layout.
- Presence of an energy certificate.
- Availability of a parking space and storage room.
- Common building expenses and residential complex rules.
- Absence of debts from the current owner.
You can view current architectural solutions and projects in the AILIT Group catalog.
4. Legal and Technical Due Diligence
Before paying a non-refundable deposit, a lawyer conducts a check of the property’s history: ownership rights, existence of mortgages, liens, or legal disputes. An engineer confirms that the property complies with plans and building permits. Any illegal modifications must be regularized before signing the final contract.
5. Agreeing on the Deposit
The preliminary agreement must contain the price, deposit amount, transaction timeline, list of documents, and terms of liability. It is recommended to transfer the deposit only after an initial property check.
6. Taxes and Signing the Contract
Before signing the contract, the buyer pays the property transfer tax, with a base rate of 3% of the taxable value of the property (aade.gr). The contract is drawn up by a notary, and payment must be documented.
7. Registering Ownership Rights
After signing the contract, ownership is registered in the Greek Land Registry. The new owner must declare the property on the E9 form and pay the annual ENFIA tax (gov.gr).
8. Golden Visa Program
Buying property does not automatically grant the right to a residence permit. If the goal is participation in the Golden Visa program, the price, area, and structure of the transaction must be agreed upon in advance with an immigration lawyer (Ministry of Migration and Asylum).
More useful information is available in the real estate investment in Greece section.
Transaction Support with AILIT Group
AILIT Group provides full support: from selecting properties in Glyfada and organizing inspections to the legal execution of the transaction. Learn more about the company’s services in the construction and real estate in Greece section.
This material is for informational purposes only and does not replace individual consultation with a lawyer, notary, or tax specialist.