Buying Presale Property in Greece as a Foreigner: The Complete Guide
From choosing a project to receiving the keys: the steps, the costs, the paperwork and the protections, with links to a detailed guide for each.
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What presale means
Presale (off-plan) means buying a new home from the developer while it is still being planned or built. You lock in today's price, pay in stages as construction progresses, and receive a new, energy-efficient home at the end. It also means waiting, and trusting a developer, so the process runs differently from buying a finished resale home. See Presale vs Resale in Greece for the comparison.
The steps
- Choose an area and a goal. Living, holiday use, long-term rent or a Golden Visa lead to different areas. Start with Athens, Crete or Halkidiki.
- Shortlist projects. Compare floor plans, payment schedule, delivery date and the developer's track record. How to choose a company explains who you will be talking to.
- Get your Greek basics. A tax number (AFM), a Greek bank account and a power of attorney. See AFM and a Greek Bank Account from Israel.
- Appoint your own lawyer. An independent Greek lawyer checks title, permit and the developer before you commit. See Due Diligence Before You Sign.
- Sign and pay in stages. Payments follow construction milestones. Greece has no Sale Law like Israel's, so the protection is built into the contract: see Presale Without a Sale Law.
- Handover. Final inspection, the final deed at the notary, registration, and keys.
What it costs
Budget roughly 5% to 8% on top of the price for transfer tax, notary, registration and legal fees. Then there is an annual property tax (ENFIA), and tax on rent if you let it. The full picture is in Greek Property Tax and Closing Costs. Israeli residents also have Israeli tax to consider: see Israeli Tax on Property in Greece.
How to pay for it
Most Israeli buyers use their own equity or a loan on a property in Israel; Greek banks lend to non-residents too, with limits. See Mortgage in Greece or Financing from Israel.
If you want residency
A qualifying purchase can lead to a Greek Golden Visa. Start with what qualifies, then the application, step by step.
Common questions
Can a foreigner buy presale property in Greece?
Yes. Israelis and other non-EU citizens can buy property in most of Greece with a Greek tax number, a bank account and a lawyer. Some border areas need an extra permit, which your lawyer checks.
How long does a presale purchase take from signing to keys?
Usually 18 to 30 months, depending on the construction stage at signing. A project already well into construction can be delivered within a year.
Do I have to travel to Greece to buy?
No. With a power of attorney your Greek lawyer can complete the purchase for you. Many buyers still visit once to see the area and the project.
General information, checked against public sources in October 2026. Not legal or tax advice. Rules change and every purchase differs, so have a licensed Greek professional confirm your own position.
