At O'Connor Properties, we offer a diverse range of properties including cottages, beachside villas, and plots of land with stunning sea views, catering to every taste and budget. We specialize in showing properties that fit within your specified budget, ensuring a tailored experience for each client. Additionally, if you're considering building or renovating your dream home, we can connect you with English-speaking architects renowned for their exceptional work in Peloponnesian architecture.

Yes, there are no restrictions for foreign buyers wishing to purchase property in the Peloponnese.

It's advisable to have your finances in order before your viewing trip to avoid delays in securing your dream home.

You'll have the opportunity to select a lawyer from a carefully curated list of outstanding English-speaking professionals specializing in Real Estate. These lawyers come highly recommended by our clients and are registered in the county where the purchase is being made, boasting impeccable track records. Once you've chosen your lawyer, they will act as your representative throughout the entire purchasing procedure. It's wise to sign a proxy or power of attorney (p.o.a.) so that your lawyer can effectively represent your interests. Here's what your lawyer will handle:
• Obtaining your A.F.M. (similar to the N.I. number in the U.K.), which is necessary for opening a Greek bank account and completing the purchase.
• Assisting you in opening a Greek bank account.
• Conducting a thorough search of the title/deeds to ensure there are no obstacles preventing the purchase of the property.
• Collaborating with an excellent surveyor who will conduct necessary searches and provide reports to your lawyer.
• Working with the Public Notary on your behalf, providing all necessary documents for contracts, witnessing signatures and payments, and registering the new ownership.
• Signing the contract on your behalf, eliminating the need for you to be physically present.
• Registering the property under your name at the normal Land Registry.
• Employing an accountant on your behalf to handle your tax return form the year after the purchase. While you won't pay taxation for income earned abroad, your accountant will ensure compliance with tax regulations.
• Providing you with the deeds in Greek, along with translations if required.Once you've made your selection, leave the rest to us. Your lawyer and our office will handle all aspects of the purchasing procedure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

If you decide to proceed with a purchase, opening a Greek bank account will be necessary. Your lawyer will require access to this account, allowing you to transfer specific funds as needed, such as the deposit amount, purchase taxation, and closing costs. To open a Greek bank account, you will need the following documents:
• Copies of your passport(s).
• A utility bill (electricity, water, or telephone) with your name and address clearly stated. If you are purchasing with someone else and splitting ownership equally, a utility bill with both names and addresses is required. Otherwise, you will need separate utility bills for each buyer.
• Copies of your tax return form(s), including your name(s), address(es), and profession(s). If you and your partner file a joint tax return, a single form is sufficient.
• Documentation from your workplace confirming your employment, including the name and address of your employer, your name, and your occupation. This could be a payroll slip or retirement statement. Similar documentation is needed for your partner.
• A telephone bill containing the name, telephone number, and address of the account holder. This requirement applies to both you and your partner.
Gathering these documents in advance will streamline the process of opening a Greek bank account, ensuring a smooth transition as you progress with your property purchase.

Unlike the U.K., property transactions in Greece typically involve fewer intermediaries and move swiftly to completion. It's common for buyers to be cash purchasers, resulting in a streamlined process with shorter timelines. To safeguard against potential issues like "Gazumping," your lawyer will recommend putting down a deposit promptly to secure the purchase and lock in the agreed price. This deposit acts as a commitment to the transaction and provides assurance to both parties involved. You or your lawyer can sign a pre-contract, down payment, or deposit agreement to formalize the transaction and outline the terms and conditions of the deposit. This step helps to prevent any last-minute changes or complications, providing peace of mind as you move forward with the purchase. By acting swiftly and securing the transaction with a deposit, you can proceed confidently, knowing that the agreed-upon terms are solidified, and the purchase is on track for completion.

The deposit required typically ranges from 2% to 20% of the agreed-upon purchase price, although a larger deposit is often advantageous. A substantial deposit not only strengthens your commitment to the purchase but also acts as a deterrent for the seller to back out of the deal. In the event of the seller reneging on the agreement, they would be obligated to return the deposit to you. Additionally, they may be liable to pay a penalty equivalent to the deposit amount (if a notarial pre-agreement has been signed), further incentivizing them to honour the transaction. Based on our experience, O'Connor Properties recommends a deposit in the range of 12,000 to 15,000 Euros. This amount strikes a balance between showing genuine commitment and minimizing risk for both parties, though it can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case.

In the event of any unforeseen issues with the property or if the seller has a change of heart, the deposit serves as a safeguard for both parties involved in the transaction. If a problem arises during searches or inspections that were previously unknown, the deposit is automatically returned to the purchaser. This ensures that your investment is protected in the event of any unexpected complications. Should the seller decide not to proceed with the sale after the deposit has been paid and the pre-contract has been signed at the Public Notary, they are obligated to return double the amount of the deposit to the purchaser. This serves as a deterrent against sellers backing out of the agreement without just cause. However, if the purchaser decides to withdraw from the purchase after the deposit has been paid, the deposit is not returned. This emphasizes the importance of careful consideration before committing to the purchase. Ultimately, the deposit represents a mutual commitment between the buyer and the seller, providing assurance and protection throughout the transaction process.

With all necessary paperwork and finances in order, and barring any unforeseen obstacles, the process of purchasing a property in Greece, through O'Connor Properties, typically spans from one to two months.

Yes, as part of the property purchase process in Greece, you will be required to pay a one-time Purchase Tax to the Greek government. Since 2014, the government has implemented a considerably lower purchase tax rate of only 3%, a significant reduction from the previous rate of approximately 10%. Additionally, there is a 3% duty stamp taxation applied on the purchase tax amount. Here's a breakdown of the calculation: For example, for a property valued at 100,000 Euros, the purchase taxation would be:
• 3% of 100,000 Euros = 3,000 Euros
• 3% duty stamp taxation on the purchase tax amount = 90 Euros
• Total: 3,000 Euros + 90 Euros = 3,090 Euros
This favourable tax rate has led to a notable increase in clients purchasing properties in Greece, particularly in the Peloponnese region, as it offers greater affordability and attractiveness to prospective buyers.

In addition to the purchase tax, there are several other costs associated with buying property in Greece. It's important to consider these expenses when budgeting for your purchase: Lawyers’ Union fees: These fees are calculated based on the taxable price of the property. For example, on a property priced at 100,000 Euros, the total Lawyers’ Union fees would be approximately 1,016.80 Euros, including VAT. Lawyer’s fees: For purchase amounts up to €250,000, the fee is a fixed €2,600 + 24% VAT. For properties exceeding this amount, the fee is calculated as a percentage. Your lawyer will provide you with the precise amount during your discussions with him/ her. Public Notary fee and registration charge: This fee is approximately 2% of the price of the property, plus 24% VAT, and a small fee for the Registry Office. For a property priced at 100,000 Euros, the total fee would be around 2,580 Euros. Surveyor’s fee: The surveyor's fee is approximately 700 Euros. Bank expenses: These expenses vary depending on the bank and the purchase amount. For example, issuing cheques for payment to the vendor may incur a cost of approximately 150 Euros for a property priced at 100,000 Euros. It's essential to factor in these additional costs when planning your property purchase in Greece to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the total expenses involved.

Yes, a fee is applicable based on the property's value, with a fixed commission for properties below €150,000 and a percentage fee of 2-6% for properties above this value.

We offer a comprehensive package of services including advice on flights, accommodation booking, transportation to view properties, assistance with legal procedures, opening a bank account, and guidance on various aspects such as healthcare, residence permits, and more.

In the event of unforeseen circumstances, the property will automatically revert to your next of kin. If you have a spouse, they will inherit ¼ of the property, with the remaining ¾ going to your children, unless specified otherwise in a will. Death duties are applicable on property up to the value of 100,000 pounds. However, this can be avoided by designating the property as a "Parental Gift" to your children. If you do not have children, it's advisable to create a will to ensure your property is distributed according to your wishes. We recommend seeking legal advice to ensure your wishes are properly documented. If you have any further questions or require clarification on any aspect, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to assist you every step of the way in your property journey.