How to Rent a House or Flat in Greece: A Complete Guide for Expats

Renting in Greece can feel like an adventure mixed with bureaucracy. As foreigners we face language barriers, unclear contracts, and the risk of paying more than locals. But once you understand the system, it becomes manageable. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to find a place, handle the paperwork, and avoid scams.

Understanding the rental market

In Greece you’ll mostly encounter three types of rentals:

• Long-term leases, usually one to three years

• Short-term lets, often seasonal or furnished apartments

• Shared flats, more common in big cities with students

Rents vary widely between Athens, Thessaloniki, the islands, and smaller towns. Budget not only for rent but also for utilities, internet, and “κοινόχρηστα” (building maintenance fees). Deposits are usually one to two months’ rent.

Where and how to search

Most expats start online. Popular platforms include Spitogatos.gr, Xe.gr, and Tospitimou.gr. These give a good overview of prices and availability.

Real estate agents (μεσίτης) can be a big help, especially if you don’t speak Greek, but expect to pay them one month’s rent as commission.

Don’t underestimate local word of mouth. Neighbourhood noticeboards, Facebook expat groups, and even a casual chat at a café can reveal apartments that never make it online.

Whenever possible, visit in person before committing. Photos often hide the less flattering details.

Documents you need

To rent formally in Greece you’ll need:

• A Greek tax number (AFM)

• Passport or ID

• Proof of income or bank statements

• A local bank account is very useful for payments

Without an AFM, most landlords won’t sign a contract because leases must be registered for tax purposes.

The lease agreement

This is where you need to be careful. Make sure your contract clearly states:

• Lease duration and renewal terms

• Exact rent, payment method, and payment date

• Deposit amount and conditions for its return

• Which utilities and fees are your responsibility

• Whether the property is furnished, semi-furnished, or completely bare

• Termination clauses and notice periods

Pro tip: always ask for the lease to be registered in the Greek tax system (Taxisnet). Without registration, you have little legal protection.

The contract language: Greek or English?

Rental contracts in Greece are almost always in Greek. This isn’t negotiable because the lease must be registered in Taxisnet, which only accepts Greek-language contracts. Even if your landlord speaks English, the official contract you sign will be in Greek.

How to handle this:

• Ask for an English translation for reference, but remember it’s not legally binding.

• Hire a lawyer or professional translator if the lease is long-term or high-value. The cost is small compared to the potential risk.

• Bring a bilingual friend if you want someone to quickly explain the clauses.

• Check the essentials: rent amount, deposit return, utilities, notice periods, and repair obligations.

Pro tip: You can ask your landlord to attach a bilingual annex (Greek and English). Legally, the Greek version prevails, but at least you’ll know exactly what you’re agreeing to.

To make it easier, we’ve created a full breakdown: Understanding Greek Rental Contracts: A Clause-by-Clause Guide for Expats.

Moving in and setting up utilities

Before moving in, inspect everything—walls, plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and appliances. Take photos of any existing damage.

To set up utilities such as electricity, water, or internet, you’ll usually need your AFM, your lease contract, and proof of ID. Some landlords keep utilities in their name and pass you the bills—clarify this upfront.

Paying rent and being a tenant

Pay rent on time and always ask for a receipt or keep bank transfer proof. If repairs are needed, notify the landlord in writing. Greek law protects tenants, but disputes can drag on, so it’s better to prevent than to fight.

Common scams and how to avoid them

Foreigners are sometimes targeted by scams. Watch out for:

• Listings that look too good to be true

• Landlords asking for large payments before you see the apartment or sign a contract

• Unregistered contracts

• Hidden building fees not mentioned at the start

• People pretending to be owners without proof of ownership

Always verify the landlord’s identity, insist on a written and registered lease, and never hand over money without proper paperwork.

Our take

If you don’t speak Greek, working with a bilingual agent or lawyer is worth every euro. Arrive early, stay in short-term accommodation, and view places in person. Demand receipts for every payment and keep a copy of the signed, registered lease.

Renting in Greece may feel chaotic at first, but once you’re set up you’ll enjoy one of the best lifestyles in Europe—with sunshine, sea, and a more relaxed pace of life than most of us are used to.