How to buy property in Greece remotely

Foreign buyers do not need to visit Greece for every stage of the transaction. Most procedures can be completed remotely through a Greek lawyer via power of attorney. The key is to choose the right property, verify documents, and organize payment in advance.

Step 1. Choosing a property

First, the buyer determines the budget, region, and purpose of the purchase: residence, rental, resale, or obtaining a Golden Visa. The property can be viewed via video call, where a representative will show the house, plot, entrance, surrounding area, and the view from the windows. You can view projects in the AILIT Group catalog.

Step 2. Power of Attorney

For a remote purchase, a power of attorney is issued to a Greek lawyer. It may grant the right to:

• Obtain an AFM tax number.
• Verify property documents.
• Sign a preliminary agreement.
• Represent the buyer before a notary.
• Register ownership rights.

The power of attorney is usually issued through a Greek consulate or a notary in the buyer’s country. In some cases, an apostille and translation into Greek are required.

Step 3. Obtaining a tax number (AFM)

A Greek tax number (AFM) is required to purchase property. It can be obtained through an authorized representative. Once the AFM is received, the buyer can participate in the transaction and pay related taxes and fees.

Step 4. Legal due diligence

Before paying a large deposit, the lawyer must verify:

• The seller’s ownership rights.
• Registration of the property in the land registry.
• Existence of mortgages, liens, or other encumbrances.
• Compliance of the building with the construction permit.
• Absence of illegal extensions.

When purchasing a plot, boundaries, access, construction feasibility, as well as forestry and archaeological restrictions are additionally checked.

Step 5. Agreement and payment

After verification, the parties agree on the price, payment schedule, and handover date. All payments must be made officially through the banking system. Transfer confirmations must be kept, especially when purchasing property for a Golden Visa.

Step 6. Signing the contract

The main sales contract is signed before a Greek notary. In a remote transaction, a lawyer can act on behalf of the buyer if provided for in the power of attorney. After signing, the contract is registered in the land registry, after which ownership is considered established.

Golden Visa remotely

Property purchase and application preparation can be organized without the investor’s constant presence in Greece. However, to complete the residence permit process, it is necessary to personally undergo established migration procedures, including providing biometric data.

How to reduce risks

Do not transfer a large deposit before the legal verification of the property. The buyer should have an independent lawyer, a clear contract, confirmation of every payment, and a full report on the property.

AILIT Group helps select properties, organize video viewings, and support the transaction from property selection to construction and management. More details: property construction in Greece.