How to Sell Your Greek Property: A Step-by-Step Guide

Selling property in Greece is a thorough legal process that has become significantly more digital in 2026. The Greek system relies heavily on professional verification to ensure that every structure is “legal” and that all taxes are settled before the keys change hands.

Step 1: Appointment of Professionals

In Greece, the seller must lead with a team of experts. Unlike in other countries, the Civil Engineer is just as important as the real estate agent.

• Real Estate Agent: Markets the property and manages viewings. Commissions are typically 2% + VAT from both the seller and the buyer.

• Civil Engineer: Mandatory. They must inspect the property to verify it matches its original building permits.

• Lawyer: While not strictly mandatory for sellers (but essential for buyers), having a lawyer is standard practice to help gather the “Dossier of Sale” and coordinate with the Notary.

   

Step 2: The Mandatory “Electronic Building ID”

As of 2026, the most critical document for a sale is the Electronic Building Identity Card (H-ID). You cannot sell a property without this digital file.

• What it is: A digital folder containing the building’s permits, topographical plans, and energy certificates.

• Technical Audit: Your Civil Engineer will conduct a survey. If you have “legalized” any illegal extensions (like a closed-in balcony) in the past, the certificates of regularization must be included here.

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Included in the H-ID, this rates the property’s efficiency from A+ to H and is required for all listings.

   

Step 3: Clearing Your Tax Profile

The Greek state requires proof that you have no outstanding debts before you can divest of an asset. You will need:

• ENFIA Clearance: Proof that the unified property tax has been paid for the last five years.

• Tax Clearance Certificate (Apodeiktiko Enimerotitas): Confirms you have no general outstanding debts to the Greek tax office.

• TAP Certificate: A certificate from the local Municipality confirming that no “Regular Property Tax” is owed on the property.

Step 4: The Reservation and Preliminary Agreement

Once an offer is accepted:

• The Deposit: The buyer typically pays a 10% deposit to secure the property.

• Preliminary Agreement: Often signed before a Notary, this contract outlines the timeline and penalties.

  Note: If you back out after this stage, you must usually pay the buyer double their deposit back. If the buyer pulls out without legal cause, you retain the deposit.

Step 5: Completion at the Notary

The final sale takes place at the office of a Notary Public, who acts as the official recorder for the State.

• AFM (Tax Number): Both parties must have a Greek Tax Number.

• Digital Registry (MIDA): In 2026, the Notary will update the new MIDA (Property Ownership and Management Registry) platform, which syncs your tax records with the National Cadastre in real-time.

• Payment: The buyer must pay the balance via bank transfer or a certified bank check. Cash payments for real estate are strictly prohibited in Greece to prevent money laundering.

Step 6: Capital Gains and Transfers

• Capital Gains Tax (CGT):

  2026 Update: The 15% Capital Gains Tax on property remains suspended until December 31, 2026. This means if you sell before the end of this year, you likely pay 0% tax on your profit (check with an accountant for any recent extensions).

• Transfer Tax: This is almost always paid by the buyer (currently 3%).

• Registration: After signing, the Notary registers the deed with the Land Registry (Ypothikofylakeio) or the National Cadastre (Ktimatologio).

   

Congratulations, you have successfully sold your Greek property!