Sell Your Property with Confidence

When selling a property in Greece, the transaction is subject to a series of fiscal obligations and professional fees that should be anticipated well in advance. Although the Greek government has currently suspended the Capital Gains Tax on property sales by individuals until the end of 2026, sellers should remain informed of any updates to this policy. In cases where it is applicable, this tax amounts to 15% on the net profit realized from the sale—calculated as the difference between the selling and original purchase price, after deducting documented expenses such as renovations and maintenance.

Typically, the real estate transfer tax is borne by the buyer and is fixed at 3.09% of the property’s taxable value. However, sellers should be aware of this obligation in case it is contractually negotiated otherwise. In addition, Value Added Tax (VAT) may apply to new properties sold by developers, although its application is currently suspended until the end of 2025.

Other expenses involved in the sale include notary fees, legal representation, real estate agent commission, and land registry charges. The notary and legal fees generally range between 1% and 2% of the sale price each, depending on the complexity of the transaction. If a property has an active mortgage, the seller is also responsible for the mortgage cancellation costs, and must obtain and present an Energy Performance Certificate, which is a legal requirement for any property transfer.

For sellers who are non-residents, special rules may apply, such as withholding tax on the purchase price, which is submitted to the Greek tax authority as an advance on behalf of the seller, and may be reclaimed via tax return.

Summary of Seller-Related Costs:

• Capital Gains Tax (15% on net profit) – currently suspended through 2026
• Notary Fees – approx. 1%–2% of the sale price
• Legal Fees – approx. 1% of the sale price
• Real Estate Agent Commission – 2%–5% of the final sale price
• Land Registry Fees – approx. 0.5% of the property value
• Mortgage Cancellation Costs – approx. €200–€500 (if applicable)
• Energy Performance Certificate – approx. €100–€300

These costs may vary depending on the location, nature of the property, and the professionals involved. For precise calculation and compliance, consultation with a qualified Greek real estate lawyer or notary is strongly recommended.

Selling a property involves several key steps. First, it's necessary to obtain a valuation of the property by a professional real estate agent and gather all the required documents and certificates.

Next comes the negotiation phase, during which the price and terms of the sale are agreed upon. Typically, a private agreement (pre-contract) is signed, at which point the buyer pays a deposit ranging from 5% to 10% of the final price. It’s important to have legal supervision to ensure the interests of both parties are protected.

The process is completed with the signing of the notarial deed, in the presence of a notary, the seller, the buyer, and their legal representatives. The remaining sale amount is paid at this stage, and the deed is officially registered with the Land Registry or Cadastre.

Helpful Tips

• Being well-informed about the local real estate market is crucial, as prices can vary significantly depending on demand, infrastructure, and tourism in the area.
• Choosing between an exclusive or multi-channel agency listing can greatly affect the effectiveness of your sale. Exclusive listings typically offer better management and more targeted promotion.
• Improving your property's energy efficiency rating can help you secure a higher selling price.
• Working with an experienced lawyer can prevent delays and unforeseen issues related to legal, tax, or urban planning matters.