Posted by Chase Real Estate Corfu on July 8, 2025

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Why Greece’s High-End Real Estate Market is Thriving: A Look at Luxury Villas and Apartments

Greece’s breathtaking coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque islands make it a top destination for real estate investment. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of a charming seaside villa or looking to profit from tourism by renovating a property, purchasing and restoring a villa in Greece can be a rewarding venture. In 2025, there’s no better time to buy and renovate a seaside villa in Greece, thanks to rising demand, tourism trends, and a favorable investment environment.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process of buying and renovating a seaside villa in Greece, including legal considerations, renovation tips, and expert insights to ensure your investment pays off.

1. Why Invest in a Seaside Villa in Greece?

Greece’s real estate market is increasingly attractive to foreign buyers, especially in coastal areas. The country boasts a combination of idyllic landscapes, historic charm, and strong rental demand due to its thriving tourism industry.

Here are some reasons why investing in a seaside villa in Greece is a great opportunity:

Tourism Demand: Greece remains one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations. Tourists flock to the islands, cities, and coastal regions throughout the year, making seaside villas a hot commodity for short-term rentals.
Year-Round Rentals: With the rise in remote work and off-season travel, there’s now demand for rentals year-round, especially in stunning coastal areas like Corfu, Crete, and the Peloponnese.
Investment Potential: Renovating a seaside villa not only provides a vacation home but also an opportunity to significantly increase the property’s value, making it a lucrative investment.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Seaside Villa in Greece

1. Determine Your Budget

The first step in buying a seaside villa in Greece is setting a realistic budget. Prices for seaside villas can vary greatly depending on location, size, condition, and proximity to popular tourist areas. It’s important to factor in additional costs such as:

Property Taxes: Greece imposes annual property taxes on real estate, which must be taken into account when budgeting.
Notary Fees & Legal Costs: Legal fees and notary costs are part of the transaction and can range between 1% and 2% of the purchase price.
Renovation Costs: Renovating a villa, especially if it’s an older property, can be costly. This includes structural repairs, interior design, utilities, and more.

2. Research Locations

Greece offers an array of coastal regions perfect for seaside villas. The most popular locations include:

Corfu: Known for its lush landscapes and historical sites, Corfu remains one of the top destinations for buying property.
Crete: This island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches and offers a blend of traditional Greek living with modern amenities.
Peloponnese: A less touristy, yet beautiful region, known for its rustic charm and historical significance.
Cyclades: Islands like Mykonos and Santorini are world-famous and offer high-end villas for investment.

It’s important to research which areas align with your budget, investment goals, and lifestyle preferences.

3. Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent familiar with the Greek market will make the buying process much easier. They can help you find properties that fit your criteria, guide you through the negotiation process, and ensure you meet legal requirements.

4. Engage with a Lawyer

A local lawyer is essential when buying property in Greece, especially as a foreigner. They will help ensure that:

The Property Has Clear Title: Ensure there are no legal disputes or encumbrances on the property.
Foreign Ownership Restrictions: If you’re a non-EU buyer, certain regions may have restrictions on property ownership.
Contract Review: Lawyers will review your sale agreement, ensuring everything is in order before you sign.

3. Renovating a Seaside Villa: Key Considerations

Once you’ve purchased your seaside villa in Greece, the next step is to renovate it to your desired standards. Renovations in coastal regions may present unique challenges due to the harsh environment, but they also offer the potential for substantial value growth.

1. Plan for Structural Integrity

Coastal properties are often subjected to saltwater exposure, which can lead to erosion and damage to structural elements like foundations, walls, and roofs. It’s essential to:

Inspect the Villa: Have a structural engineer assess the property to identify any issues that need to be addressed during the renovation process.
Address Moisture Problems: Coastal areas often experience high humidity, which can result in mold and damp issues. Ensure proper insulation and waterproofing are incorporated into the renovation plan.

2. Enhance the Villa’s Aesthetic Appeal

The beauty of a seaside villa lies in its location, so the design and finishes should accentuate its natural surroundings:

Open, Airy Spaces: Consider open-plan layouts to maximize the view of the sea. Large windows and glass doors can help bring the outdoors in.
Traditional vs. Modern Style: While modern design elements are in demand, many buyers are drawn to properties that incorporate traditional Greek elements like exposed stone walls, wooden beams, and tiled floors.
Outdoor Spaces: Create inviting outdoor living areas such as terraces, patios, or infinity pools that overlook the sea.

3. Sustainable Renovations

As eco-tourism becomes a key trend in 2025, sustainable renovations are an excellent investment. Consider incorporating the following eco-friendly features into your renovation:

Energy-Efficient Windows and Insulation: These features help keep the villa cool in summer and warm in winter, improving energy efficiency.
Solar Panels: Installing solar panels can reduce energy costs and appeal to eco-conscious tourists.
Water Conservation: Installing water-saving fixtures and systems can help maintain the villa in an eco-friendly manner.

4. Legal Aspects of Renovating a Seaside Villa

Before beginning any renovations on your seaside villa, there are a few legal aspects to consider:

Building Permits: Renovation work in Greece requires permits, especially if the property is located in a protected area or is a historic building. Make sure to apply for the necessary permits before starting work.
Planning Restrictions: Coastal properties may be subject to zoning laws that restrict the extent of renovations or new construction. A local architect or contractor will help you navigate these regulations.
Property Taxation: Renovations may affect the value of your property, which could result in higher property taxes once the work is completed.

5. Financing Your Renovation

Renovating a seaside villa in Greece can be costly, but there are several ways to finance your project:

Home Equity Loans: If you’ve already paid off part of the property, you can consider taking a loan against the equity of your villa.
Bank Financing: Greek banks offer financing options for property renovation, especially if you have a long-term relationship with them.
Personal Savings: If the renovation is not extensive, you may opt to use your savings to fund the work.

6. Making the Most of Your Investment

Once the renovation is complete, your seaside villa can become a profitable investment, whether for personal use or as a vacation rental. Here’s how to make the most of your investment:

Short-Term Rentals: Given Greece’s tourism trends, you can rent the villa on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com to generate significant rental income.
Seasonal Rentals: Capitalize on Greece’s tourist season by offering the property as a long-term rental during the off-season to local tenants or remote workers.

By offering a high-quality, renovated villa with attractive amenities and eco-friendly features, you can ensure your seaside property stands out in a competitive market.

Conclusion

Buying and renovating a seaside villa in Greece is a dream for many investors, but it requires careful planning and strategic decisions. By choosing the right location, understanding the legal process, planning your renovations wisely, and staying informed about financing options, you can turn your Greek seaside villa into a profitable and rewarding investment.

For expert help with buying, selling, or investing in real estate in Corfu and Greece, visit Chase Real Estate.