Expats in Greece: Testimonials from French Homeowners

Published on April 24, 2026 and written by Cyril Jarnias

At the heart of picturesque Greece, a vibrant community of French expatriates is flourishing. In search of new adventures and a better quality of life, they have chosen to settle permanently in this sunny country. Through authentic testimonials, this article delves into the experience of these expatriates who have become homeowners, revealing the challenges and joys they encounter daily.

From buying a house in the whitewashed alleys of Santorini to the enchanting landscapes of the Ionian coast, discover how these French expatriates manage to create a harmonious balance between two cultures, while savoring every moment of their new Greek life.

Motivations of a French Expatriate in Greece: A Real Estate Dream Come True

Many French people choose to expatriate to Greece, drawn by a mild Mediterranean climate, a quality of life deemed superior to what they knew in France, and a significantly lower cost of living. The mild winters, abundant sunshine year-round, and proximity to the sea are frequently cited as triggers for the expatriation project. Added to this are Greek conviviality, the peaceful pace of life, and the simple pleasures of daily life.

The main motivations identified among French expatriates include:

• The search for a preserved natural environment
• A deep desire for escape or a change of pace
• The financial accessibility of the Greek real estate market compared to that of France
• A desire to invest in a second home or primary residence under the sun

Testimonials gathered from expatriates illustrate these dynamics. Sophie, 52, recounts:

“We had dreamed for a long time of having a house facing the sea. In Greece, this dream became accessible without sacrificing our financial comfort.”

Jean-Marc and Clara explain their journey:

“The process was simpler than expected thanks to local support; despite some administrative delays in obtaining certain official documents, we were able to sign the purchase in less than three months.”

Initial Goals of French Real Estate Expatriates:

• Finding a haven for their retirement
• Acquiring a profitable seasonal residence through tourist rentals
• Integrating into an authentic village away from the urban hustle and bustle

Typical Real Estate Purchase Process:

1. Online research followed by on-site visits
2. Selection assisted by a bilingual or French-speaking real estate agent
3. Notarial procedures (deed of sale)
4. Obtaining the Greek tax number (AFM) if needed
5. Final signing and handover of keys

The dream takes shape from the first months spent in their new home:

Initial Goal	Result Achieved
Peaceful retirement	Rapid integration into the local fabric
Second home	Asset appreciation
Rental investment	Regular supplementary income

Challenges encountered are not absent:

• Administrative complexity in opening a local bank account or obtaining certain permits.
• Language barrier during official procedures.
• Sometimes long delays between the accepted offer and the actual transfer of titles.

Most report having overcome these obstacles thanks to:

• The invaluable help of agencies specializing in French-speaking support.
• Supportive solidarity among active members of local French communities.
• Gradual adaptation to Hellenic customs and traditions.

Statistically, there is a notable increase in the total number of French people officially registered outside France (+48,964 registered in 2025), with marked growth particularly in Mediterranean countries, including Greece.

Ultimately,

For many,
the easier access to Greek real estate has allowed French expatriates not only
to realize their personal dreams but also
to increase their overall sense of well-being,
driven by the serene climate,
the local warmth of the people,
and a new lifestyle centered on the essentials.

This choice strongly contributes to their overall happiness — a tangible fruit
of a real estate adventure that became a reality under the Hellenic sun.

Authentic Testimonials: Successfully Buying Real Estate in Greece

Julie, a 39-year-old Parisian, chose the island of Evia to realize her dream of a second home in the sun. Her main challenge: understanding the complexity of the Greek land registry and securing property titles, which are sometimes imprecise or outdated. After almost signing for a house whose land encroached on a neighboring plot, she hired a local lawyer recommended by the French embassy to verify every document and complete the transaction without any nasty surprises.

Challenges Encountered

• Complexity of property titles
• Requirement for a mandatory lawyer during transactions
• Language barrier with some local contacts

Solutions Provided

• Recommendation or careful selection of a French-speaking lawyer or use of a professional interpreter
• Thorough verification with the notary and regular consultation with expatriates established in the region

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Antoine and Lucie, young retirees originally from Lyon, invested near Athens in 2023. Their main motivation was the mild Mediterranean climate as well as the possibility of living comfortably thanks to the moderate cost of the local market compared to the French Riviera. They recount being surprised by certain administrative specifics: the imperative need to open a Greek bank account before any transaction; also the need “to wait until the last moment to transfer the funds to avoid any unexpected administrative blockages.”

Key Advice

• Always open a local bank account before even the preliminary agreement
• Contact the embassy from the very first exchanges to get a reliable list of French-speaking lawyers
• Allow extra time for all administrative procedures

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Claire, a Parisian designer who has been an expatriate in Thessaloniki for two years:

“I embarked on this adventure after falling in love with the local lifestyle: genuine conviviality, a slower pace… But you have to adapt to the sometimes erratic office hours of the administrations! Personalized support saved me from many disappointments.”

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Problem Encountered	Solution Adopted	Practical Advice
Incomplete land titles	Specialized French-speaking lawyer	Always verify the land registry and titles
Language barrier	Interpreter during signings	Don’t hesitate to invest in this service
Complex banking procedure	Early opening of a Greek account	Inquire about bank processing times
Cultural differences	Integration via local Franco-Greek associations	Take part in local events

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Memorable Anecdotes

• Some French people mention their surprise at the strong sense of local hospitality: “Our neighbor spontaneously helped us with the renovations even though we didn’t know each other yet!”
• Several buyers testified that despite some administrative delays (especially during certain electoral periods), they never regretted their choice, as the balance between quality of life and financial investment is so interesting.

Key takeaway:
Solid legal support from the start remains essential. Patience – especially with Greek administrative rhythms – as well as cultural openness are essential to fully enjoy the Hellenic real estate dream while securing your family or rental project.

Living in Greece: Reviews and Advice from French Expatriate Homeowners

Testimonials from French Expatriate Homeowners in Greece

“We bought a house in the Peloponnese three years ago. The cost of living here is really lower than in France: for 300 to 400 euros, you can rent a spacious apartment with a sea view. Running costs are also reasonable, which allows us to fully enjoy the climate and local products without breaking the bank.”
— Sophie, settled near Kalamata

Positive Points Noted by Expatriates:

• Attractive real estate cost: buying a house or apartment remains much cheaper than in France.
• Quality of life: pleasant climate all year round, more relaxed Mediterranean pace.
• Warm welcome from Greeks and mutual aid within small local communities.
• Interesting tax system for retirees and clear taxation on rental income.

Frequently Mentioned Negative Points:

• Administrative procedures that are sometimes long and complex (especially for obtaining an AFM – Greek tax number – or finalizing the notarial deed).
• Language barrier that can complicate certain official procedures.
• Need to be physically present or well-represented during many steps (bank, notary…).
• Banking system considered rigid by some expatriates.

Aspect	Positive Points	Negative Points
Housing cost	Low prices for both purchase and rental	Sometimes needs renovation
Real estate procedures	Secure process via notaries	Slow administrative procedure
Daily life	Friendly atmosphere and healthy food	Bureaucracy/language

Personal Anecdotes

“The purchase turned out to be longer than expected because our file was not complete according to the local notary — an official translation of a French document was missing. Fortunately, our Greek neighbor helped us navigate between the administrative offices!”
— Laure

“We were surprised by the local solidarity during the health crisis: our neighbors would drop off fruits and vegetables at our door without asking for anything in return… That’s also what living here is all about!”

Practical Advice for Future Buyers

Before the Purchase

• Contact a French-speaking lawyer specialized in Greek real estate to verify the land title and secure all procedures.
• Quickly open a local bank account (essential); be patient during the process.

After Moving In

• Connect with other expatriates through local networks (“Vivre Athènes”, French-speaking Facebook groups).
• Don’t hesitate to learn some basic Greek to facilitate integration and daily management.

Cultural/Logistical Tips

• Always ask for a detailed receipt (“apódixi”) for work or major purchases.
• Budget for renovations if buying an older property; local craftsmen are competent but often busy during the high season.

Living in Greece as a homeowner requires flexibility in the face of administrative challenges but offers in return an authentic quality of life at the heart of a welcoming community.

Real Estate in Greece: Opportunities and Pitfalls for French Expatriates

The Greek real estate market is experiencing strong momentum in 2025, with average prices reaching €2,596/m², up nearly 2% year-on-year. This upward trend is part of a context where demand remains strong, in both the residential and commercial segments.

Year	Average Price (€/m²)	Annual Change
May 2024	2,546	+3%
May 2025	2,596	+1.96%

The regions and cities most sought after by French expatriates include:

• Athens (central and coastal neighborhoods)
• Thessaloniki
• Islands like Corfu, Mykonos, and Crete

These areas attract buyers for their quality of life, developed infrastructure, and tourist potential.

Buying property as a foreigner involves several specific steps:

• Obtaining a Greek tax identification number (AFM)
• Opening a local bank account for the transfer of funds
• Verifying the cadastral conformity of the property (especially on the islands)
• Going through a notary for the deed of sale and land registration

It is advisable to hire a specialized lawyer to avoid any administrative or legal surprises.

Greece offers various tax advantages and incentive programs:

• The Golden Visa program: residence permit for real estate investment starting from €250,000 in certain regions.
• “Green Energy Homes” subsidies covering up to 30% of costs for residences incorporating green technologies.
• Significant tax reductions for installing renewable energy equipment that meets recent ecological standards.

These measures enhance the country’s attractiveness for foreign investors sensitive to sustainability.

Common pitfalls faced by French expatriates:

• Lack of clarity in the land registry or its complete absence in some rural or island areas.
• Late discovery of undeclared building violations that could block a future resale.
• Administrative delays that can significantly lengthen the transaction if all checks are not anticipated.

List of practical tips drawn from collected testimonials:

“When you buy in Greece, you absolutely must check that the property is regularized from an urban planning standpoint. We had to hire two lawyers before getting all the necessary papers — it’s not automatic like in France!”

“Obtaining the Greek tax number took longer than expected, but it’s essential even if you finance everything from your French bank. A good local agent really facilitates this step.”

Main advice noted:

• Never sign without having consulted your own independent lawyer;
• Prefer buying in an area where the land registry is reliable;
• Thoroughly research all applicable local taxes;
• Plan a budget margin for often underestimated ancillary costs (notary, lawyer, property tax).