Foreign buyers account for 8.7% of Greek property transactions as domestic demand continues to drive the market

Foreign investment has become an increasingly visible part of Greece’s real estate landscape, but domestic demand continues to drive the majority of market activity. In 2025, foreign buyers accounted for 8.7% of the total value of property transactions in Greece, meaning that more than 90% of property activity was generated by domestic buyers and investors. Foreign investment remains a relatively limited share of the overall Greek property market.

The data show that while foreign capital has increased its presence in Greek property, it has not replaced local demand as the main driver of the market. Foreign direct investment (FDI) in real estate has been particularly visible in specific areas, including Athens, the Athenian Riviera, popular islands and major tourism destinations.

The Bank of Greece has been recording foreign direct investment in real estate since 2002. From that year until 2025, cumulative foreign investment in the Greek real estate sector reached approximately € 15.8 billion. The strongest growth period has been recorded in recent years. Between 2019 and 2025, foreign investment in Greek property reached approximately € 12.4 billion.

Real estate has consistently ranked among the leading sectors attracting foreign direct investment into Greece. According to Bank of Greece data, property investment represented 47% of total FDI inflows in 2023 and 46% in 2024. In 2025, the share of real estate within total foreign investment declined to 16.6%. It reflects the wider expansion of foreign investment into other sectors such as financial and insurance activities, information and communication technologies (ICT), transport and logistics, manufacturing, renewable energy and tourism-related services.

Several factors have contributed to Greece’s attractiveness as a real estate investment destination. Compared with many other European markets, Greek property prices remain relatively competitive, particularly when compared with major cities in Western Europe. The country’s strong tourism sector has also supported demand for holiday homes, serviced residences, short-term rental properties and hospitality developments. The Golden Visa programme, which provides residency rights to eligible non-EU investors through qualifying property investments, has also contributed to international demand.

Foreign direct investment in Greek real estate is generally focused on specific types of assets rather than the entire housing market. International investors commonly target premium residential properties and luxury homes, holiday residences and second homes, apartments purchased for rental income, including short-term rentals, hotels and hospitality-related properties, mixed-use developments, urban regeneration projects and selected commercial assets.

The effects of foreign investment have been most noticeable in areas with high international demand. Athens, the Athenian Riviera and popular tourism destinations have experienced stronger price growth, increased competition for available properties and greater pressure on housing affordability.

Source:

Foreign Investment in Greece’s Real Estate Market Reached €12.4 Billion From 2019 to 2025 20 July 2026

Foreign Direct Investments