Below we try to answer some of the most common questions we receive from clients wishing to purchase a Greek property...

I am not a Greek citizen, can I still buy a Greek property?                  

Yes, if you belong to a country which is a member of the EU then you are under the same legislation as a Greek citizen. If you are from a country outside of the EU the procedures do differ and we will advise accordingly dependant on your nationality.  

As a Buyer what paperwork will I need?        

A Valid Passport or Identification card and a AFM number (Pronounced in Greek "ah feh mee")

What is a AFM number and where do I get one?                                    

Anybody purchasing a property in Greece must have a Greek tax roll number (AFM). Upon application these numbers are issued by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service). They are free of charge and are issued on the spot.

What are the legal requirements when buying a Greek property?  

Above all there must be a contract for selling or buying a property in order for it to be a legal purchase. The permission for such action is given, by law, to notaries. Therefore each contract/transfer of selling property is a notary´s obligation.The Lawyer will examine the titles of the property of the seller and together with the rest of the documentation, he will bring them to the notary´s office who is in charge of forming the contract and of selling or transferring the property. The whole action is registered in the relative records of the notary and only then is it considered valid.

What is a "pink slip" ?

Basically a receipt from the bank when completing wire transfers of money from abroad. It is important to keep this safe as if the buyer cannot justify the amount of money they have spent the Greek tax authorities will assign it as unreported income and the buyer will be assessed income tax.                           

Do I need a residents permit to live in Greece?    

If you are an EU citizen then NO. All EU citizens have the right to free movement to live and work in any of the 27 member states with the exception of citizens of Bulgaria and Romania until 2009. If you are an American or non-EU citizen be aware that permits are involved when living and working in Greece. 

Is the whole process of buying a Greek property difficult or complicated?                                                                                               

No!  Stoupa Properties will guide and assist you throughout every stage of the purchase.