The process required to transfer the ownership of properties in Greece is set to go online as of October, senior government officials say.
The Digital Governance Ministry has tabled in parliament a bill to shift the procedures online- in a bid to gain competitiveness of the country’s real estate sector and help draw foreign investment to the residential housing sector.
With the help of a notary, property deals will be done online via gov.gr that will hook up the different government services involved, such as the tax office and the national cadastre.
Speaking in parliament, Digital Governance Deputy Minister Giorgos Stilios, who is overseeing the implementation of the country’s national cadaster (Greek land registry), said that “now the transfer will take place in the notary’s office without the need to obtain 17 documents from 11 different public services.
“We are ready, and technically, this will apply to 100 percent of real estate in Greece, in two months,” he said.
Stilios also announced that “the cadastre (ktimatologio) will be 90 percent complete by 2023, two years earlier than announced,” adding that today 2 percent of owners in different areas are holding up procedures for different reasons.
With this bill, the two percent will now stop blocking everyone else from being able to access dozens of digital services and facilities, added the Deputy Minister.
This article was first published here.
For more Real Estate News & Views on Greece and Europe’s South, head to The Greek Guru.
Designed and built in the 1960s and set in Kardamyli, a charming seaside town in the Peloponnese, the Patrick and Joan Leigh Fermor House is considered one of Greece’s most beautiful properties.
Sir Patrick Leigh Fermor, was born in London in 1915 and passed away in 2011; he was a well-known author, scholar, and war hero, who is also celebrated as one of the finest travel writers of his generation. As a member of the British Military Mission to Greece, he played a prominent role in the Cretan resistance during the Second World War. A true Philehellene; Sir Fermor was a great admirer and lover of Greece and spent a long time looking for the perfect spot along the Aegean Sea to build his dream home.
In the 1960s Leigh Fermor and his wife Joan chose to spend the rest of their lives in the Peloponnese. It was here in the olive-tree-filled countryside that Fermor ended up building a charming stone house with the assistance of his architect friend, Nikos Hatzimichalis.
Design and Layout
Boasting an authentic charm, the villa features traditional white-washed walls, exposed stone, and pebbled floors. Outside you will find a massive Mediterranean garden of cypress and olive trees, as well as wildflowers. The property also features a pool and a private stretch of beach.
The Main House comes with three suites, the writer’s studio right next to it, which is formed into the Traditional House, as well as the Guest House, adjacent to the Main House.
Staying at the Patrick and Joan Leigh Fermor House
This historical house can be rented as a whole villa, encompassing the Main House, Traditional House, and Guest House, to accommodate parties of up to ten people. It can also be rented as individual self-contained suites, the Traditional House and Guest House, each sleeping up to two people, and the Main House, sleeping up to six people.
Donated to the Benaki Museum
In 1996, the couple donated their house to the Benaki Museum, with the Museum’s mission being the couple’s expressed desire that the house will remain open to the public and host writers and researchers. The restoration works at the building and the landscape surroundings were completed so that the original character of the property is meticulously preserved. Aria Hotels, in collaboration with the Benaki Museum, have undertaken operation of the property during the three-month rental period with particular sensitivity to its unique legacy, offering guests a rare residential experience of authentic Greek hospitality.
What’s nearby
While staying here, guests can visit the Tower of Mourtzinos, in the historic village of Old Kardamyli. Close by are charming cafes, the church of Agios Spiridon, which dates from Byzantium, and the historical Museum of Greek Culture. There are also plenty of beaches to choose from including Ritsa, Chalikias, Salio, Dolphins, Kalamitsi, Foneas, and Neo Proastio.
For more details about visiting, head toariahotels.
Buyers looking for a beachfront home on a Greek island are faced with a mixed market as asking prices on Serifos, Naxos and Paros rise rapidly, but drop on Skopelos and Patmos.
Demand has been picking up in Greece’s residential housing market in recent months as the economy rebounds from last year’s steep pandemic-induced recession and easing travel restrictions help attract foreign buyers.
Real estate agents say that buying activity from foreign nationals has been mostly focused on southern Athens, along the coastal area called the Athens Riviera, and the islands.
Data collected by Spitogatos.gr shows that the asking price for homes on the islands of Serifos, Samothrace and Poros topped the list jumping in the last year by 26.2 percent (to 2,649 euros/sq.m) 23.1 percent (to 1,066 euros/sq.m) and 20 percent (to 2,000/sq.m) respectively.
Next on the list come Antiparos, Naxos, Kythnos and Paros with hikes in selling prices reaching 17.6 percent (3,823 euros/sq.m), 15 percent (2,697 euros/sq.m.), 12.8 percent (2,255 euros/sq.m) and 12.5 percent (2,812 euros/sq.m) respectively
More than eight in ten potential home buyers on the Greek islands are foreign nationals, according to Georg Petras, CEO of Engel & Völkers in Greece, with strong interest coming from central European countries,
Strong interest is noted especially from Central Europeans coming from the DACH regions (45 percent from Germany, 15 percent from Switzerland and 10 percent from Austria) as well as the Benelux countries and the USA.
Price drops
On the downside, asking prices on the islands of Thasos, Ikaria, Skopelos and Patmos showed the biggest drop, falling 9.2 percent (1,309 euros/sq.m), 7.1 percent (1,300 euros/sq. m), 5.6 percent (1,062 euros/sq.m ) and 5.2 percent (3,359.7 euros/sq. m) respectively.
Next come Leros, Lesvos and Kea where asking prices dipped by 3.4 percent, 2.8 percent and 2.7 percent.
Demand solid demand for a holiday home in Greece, market experts warn that a recent property tax hike in the country may weigh on demand.
In June, the Finance Ministry announced an increase in the ENFIA property tax bill paid by property owners on popular islands, such as Mykonos and Rhodes.
The tax value of some homes on Mykonos, for example, jumped to 3,800 euros per square meter, from 1,200 euros. Sharp increases also appear in districts on the islands of Rhodes, Kos, and Kefalonia. The changes will take effect as of January.
This article was first published here.
For more Real Estate News & Views on Greece and Europe’s South, head to The Greek Guru.
In the heart of Leros, you will find a mid-19th Century summer home, which has been beautifully renovated to become one of the most authentic and cozy places to stay at this under-the-radar Dodecanese island.
If you are looking for a getaway that will enable you to feel like a local, Casa Leros 1850 is the perfect place to stay; just footsteps from the stunning Aegean Sea, this charming home allows guests to capture Greek island life in all its glory.
IN+SIGHTS GREECE recently spoke with owner Dimitris Georgiou, who tells us about what makes the home so unique and he also shares travel tips on the best things to see and do while visiting Leros island.
Tell us about the renovations you made and how would you describe the look/feel of Casa Leros 1850?
It’s a traditional island home nestled under a tree in the bay of Alinda on the island of Leros. While renovating, we wanted to maintain its initial structure dating back to the 19th Century, characterised by thick stone walls, and petite window sizes, used by locals in the past for best protection against any form of threat from foreign enemies trying to invade the island. The renovations we made have allowed the house to keep its old traditional charm. It’s a place that encourages guests to walk barefoot, feel the summer breeze, and ultimately feel at home.
It features two bedrooms and two bathrooms. What other main indoor/outdoor spaces are there?
The house also features a fully equipped kitchen, a laundry with a washing machine, and ample outdoor space with a seating area, two dining areas, a hammock, and a garden.
What makes Casa Leros 1850 such a special place to stay at?
We think the uniqueness comes from the particular character it exudes. The property highlights traditional Greek island architecture and design. When staying at Casa Leros you instantly feel like a local who is travelling back in time. The house is also privileged to be nestled under a large tree providing great natural shade or light (depending on the time of day), it allows total privacy and is a stone’s throw from the sea (80 meters). It offers a truly relaxing setup for guests while maintaining its local charm.
Who is your summer home most suitable for?
Every year we have all sorts of guests stay at Casa Leros. From couples to families, that range from young ages through to older visitors. One thing is for sure – they are all looking for something authentic. An “experience” as opposed to your typical accommodation. And we think that’s what they are getting.
Tell us about the location of the house, what is close by?
As mentioned, it’s on the bay of Alinda in Leros, 80 meters from the sea, so it’s ideal for those looking for a spontaneous morning or afternoon swim. It’s also close to several picturesque seafront fish taverns and bars, offering amazing Greek delicacies and carefree evening strolls by the sea. While walking on the bay of Alinda, you also get to enjoy a great view of the Medieval Castle of Leros sitting opposite the bay.
Do you personally greet your guests upon arrival?
We commute back and forth between Leros and Athens. There are times when we greet our guests ourselves, and times when our wonderful partners do. There is always a local point of contact available at all times for whatever our guests might need regarding their stay, the island, or anything else they require.
Is the home available for rent all year round?
Casa Leros is available from March through to November.
When is the perfect time to visit Leros?
Leros is an unpretentious island, untouched by mass tourism which helps you see its true colours and character. There is not really a “best month” to visit as it typically comes down to what it is you are looking for. May and June are typically more quiet months, while July through to September tends to get busier. For those seeking a quiet stay away from crowded restaurants and beaches, any period beyond the end of July/August is great. We have guests who come as early as April and others in October, where you can also enjoy a swim in the sea.
What makes Leros unique?
For those looking for a traditional, authentic island life, Leros should be on the top of your list. Anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path summer destination, something unpretentious, to get a feel for Greek island life, Leros is your place. If you wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, travel back in time, Leros is it.
Can you please share a few of your favourite local eateries?
Mylos Fish Tavern in Agia Marina, Prima Aneplora in Alinda, El Greco in Panteli, Skipper’s in Lakki, View Restaurant (by the windmills on the way to the castle). For coffee and sweets, I recommend Paradosiako Patisserie in Agia Marina and Lime Beach Bar in Lakki.
View Restaurant
Taverna Mylos
Are there any local dishes/delicacies people should try when visiting Leros?
Anything fish-related as Leros is famous for its top-quality fish. Also taste ‘Patsavouropita,’ it’s a local dessert and it’s delicious.
Best beaches in Leros?
Agia Kioura, Vromolithos, Dia Liskaria are beautiful. Boat trips to Aspronisia, Lipsi, and Tiganakia are also highly recommended.
What historical sites are a must-see for first-time visitors to Leros?
The Medieval Castle of Leros, the War Museum of Leros, plus the Archaeological Museum of Leros. And for those into scuba-diving, you have the opportunity to see a shipwreck from WWII.
One thing people should not miss when visiting Leros?
Walk or drive up to the Medieval Castle of Leros to witness a 360-degree view of Leros and a breathtaking sunset.
Finally, what do you think is the most memorable experience when staying at Casa Leros?
The opportunity to live in a house that truly embodies the island’s character. The opportunity to feel like a local. The opportunity to connect with nature while blending in seamlessly with the local environment. The opportunity to live with less; but it feels like more.
