Pankaj Mohan asked:


Greece is widely regarded as the place where the western civilization was born many centuries ago. It is widely acknowledged as the guiding force that has driven the human civilization for over 2500 years now. It is also the place where three continents, namely Europe, Asia and Africa, and three varying climatic conditions submerge into one. These enthralling shades make it one of the most visited places on earth today. Roughly 16 million tourists walk on its soil every year, thus allowing several hundred thousand Greek nationals to be employed by its tourism industry. Located at the southeastern fringe of the European peninsula, Greece is spoken of highly for its world class beaches, lavish hotels and the level of hospitality it offers. Hotels in Greece are an integral part of its tourism infrastructure, which earns around 15% of the nation's entire GDP in revenues.

Rich visuals may be recalled; if one began examining how the events of Greece had benefited the world we are part of. It was Greece that first gave the idea of democratic governance almost 2500 years ago. The word "democracy" itself stemmed out from the Greek language, meaning the rule of the people. In spite of its initial doubts, the Greek democracy survived on and was later followed by many other states. Modern states are often seen mimicking the same federal structure that Romans established around 2000 years ago. However, it should be noted down for academic reasons that Romans were more of an autocratic regime, as their later years suggest. Only parts in and around Athens had democratically elected councils to look after their people.

Greece also gets known for having gifted the world with Modern Olympic Games. It was Athens in 1896, where the first Olympic Games were organized after its modern-day revival. Olympic Games have since become a rallying point for the players and athletes from all over the world to compete and people from varying backgrounds to mingle with each other. Remains of the ancient Olympia stadium were excavated and restored in the middle of the 20th century. It is the same location from where the Olympic Flame starts its journey and gets carried to the game venues. These and many other exciting stories may suggest why Greece has been admired for ages now.

The world loves visiting Greece in huge numbers as a result, providing an immense boost to its tourism infrastructure. Its scenic Mediterranean coastline and the yearlong pleasing weather make holiday making fun and frolic. Athens, Peloponnese, Cyclades and Crete are some known cities carrying immense historic significance, where most travelers prefer heading on to. Hotels in Greece would be seen having high occupancy rates throughout the year, in this process, and one should plan their journeys in advance, for the same reason, to make their trips hassle free. Travelers can buy both cheap and high end accommodation from hotels in Greece, and also try to get best deals from tour operators, which include last minute holidays.

There is enough online support available for those who might be willing to book their accommodation from hotels in Greece. Sea-side resorts and self-catering apartments should also be taken into consideration apart from prime hotels in Greece for garnering accommodation. Planning out in advance should make your Greek journey memorable, since there were plenty of activities to be entertained from apart from visiting the usual heritage sites.



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Leo Fogarty asked:


Greece has traditionally been a popular holiday destination but with relatively low interest in property investments. This situation is changing with recent interest from its European neighbors.The recent focus on Greece after the 2004 Olympics evoked worldwide interest thus pushing up tourism and demand for housing. With its serene coast line, affordable cost of living, an enviable history and culture, Greece is an enticing place to invest. The renewed interest in tourism has also brought with it a rising need for rental. The best part is that compared to its popular European neighbors like Spain, Portugal and France it is a better investment destination.

An overview of the property market

With an undervalued property market there could not be a better time to invest into Greece and it gets better depending on the choice of location which can give returns up to 20-25%. Wide arrays of properties are available but the ones on the main islands like Crete, Corfu and Rhodes are dearer. Choices are available between beautiful Greek traditional houses and modern suites though the location and condition of houses determine the price. Two bedroom apartments are priced from EUR89,000 to EUR355,000 and a three bed room house will cost between EUR148,000 and EUR503,000. Cheaper investments are possible if renovations can be undertaken.

Sellers Market

It is possible to drive a bargain and pick up older properties for cheaper rates but be prepared to spend a lot on repairs which can sometimes turn a nightmare. Depleted buildings with damages to sanitary lines and reconnecting electric supply could turn out more expensive than investing int a new apartment. When it comes to selling a property in Greece location is high on priority. Though it is difficult to get a property in the islands, it is easier to sell off.

Popular Locations in Greece

Mainland Greece is preferred by east Europeans and Scandinavians but the English favor investing in the islands. Crete with its rich history and tranquil landscape is most sought after location by holidaymakers but its calmness and scenic beauty is the reason why retired Europeans prefer it. The majority of property is owned by British investors and with rising rental potential, property rates have shot up by 6-10%. The mild and beautiful Peloponnese peninsula is ideal for investors a milder investment. A strong history and with a projected positive appreciation rate, prices have shot up by more than 20%. It is also attracting international interest.Greece has strong laws to protect and regulate their coastline which has resulted in kept them unexploited in spite of all the development.Air connectivity to the islands is good and getting better with flights from UK to all major islands like Crete, Rhodes and Corfu. There are direct flights from Manchester to Heraklion and also from Gatwick to Rhodes. GB airlines flights five flights from Gatwick to Heraklion.

The larger islands have well developed rental markets.The island of Peloponnese is cut off from the mainland by the canal of Corinth. This isolation is offset by other transportation channels like a motorway, railway link and the Kalamata airport. The island is dotted with sandy beaches and rugged mountains and offers warm winters and pleasant summers. Peloponnese is home to the famous Olympia, Epidaurus and Mycenae. The English are the largest group of investors as connectivity from Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester to Kalmata is strong with the travel time less than 4 hrs. Older properties which can be purchased from Euro 45000, the range includes stone cottages, traditionally architected houses and villas.

Property Purchase

A lawyer with understanding and experience with Greek property procedures is recommended. Good English is an added benefit.

The purchase process

The process starts with agreeing on a price agreement and sealing it with a 10% advance followed by a pre-contract agreement signed by both parties. After all information gathering is completed the final deed of sale is signed in the front of a public notary. After paying the balance amount the owner can be transferred by registration.

Fees and Costs

Compared to other nations the tax for purchasing and registering in Greece is on the higher side. 13-15 percent of the cost of property would be paid as taxes which include transfer tax for resales, municipal tax to the local authorities, legal fees to lawyers and notaries and property registration. New buildings are charged 19 percent as Value Added Tax.

Financing

There are usually three options when it comes to financing a property. Cash, new Mortgages and re mortgaging an existing property are options for financing. Although cash is the easiest option, it is not always affordable. Mortgages for the property can be arranged by a Greek or UK lender. Giving up equity in a UK/Irish property can help purchase the Greek property in cash and thus make it an easy option. Greece has the highest interest rates as compared to its European neighbors. Lending is conservative and applicants have to furnish proof of income and rental projections are usually not considered.

Taxes in Greece

It is recommended that buyers get some taxation advice as Greek regulations are complex. Non residents may also fall into the bracket of income, wealth, inheritance and gift taxes. Since the UK/Ireland has a double taxation treaty with Greece you can be assured to escape paying tax in both countries. Acquiring a fiscal number, called the AFM is necessary to involve in any financial exchanges like property transactions, buying a vehicle or working in Greece. Holders of AFM have to file yearly tax returns irrespective of income.

Property Taxation Guidelines

To reduce speculation the Greek agencies have implemented Capital Gains tax which applies to property bought after 1st January 2006. The motive being to impose penalty on those looking for quick profit by levying it in inverse to the length of time the property is owned. The other tax for property holders is the wealth tax which is between 0.3 and 0.8 percent of the property value. Wealth tax is only levied on properties with valuation more than Euro 243,600.Apart from wealth and capital gains the others are local taxes. They take the form of direct and indirect taxes charged between .25 to .35 percent of the propertys official valuation.

Greek Economy

Greece trades chiefly with EU nations like Germany, Italy, France and also the USA in tourism, shipping, food, tobacco, textiles, mining and petroleum products. The sector growing rapidly is the service sector. Greek GDP annual growth was touching 4 percent during 2003-2005 periods which is above the European Union average and it has been performing uniformly. The introduction of reforms and funding from European Union are the top reasons for this consistent growth. The government has been working towards strengthening the labor and pension mechanism to arrest the growing unemployment, inflation and national debt.

Communications within Greece

Fixed and Mobile Telephone

The telephone market was controlled solely by the state through the Organismos Tilepikoinonion Ellados (OTE) until the markets opened up in 2002. Over the years OTE has lost market share but still controls a major chunk of the market. Though other players are coming in OTE still has a major in basic infrastructure like phone lines. Mobile phone use is substantial and pay-as-you-use cards are available at common stores but a contract phone card is only available by producing a Fiscal Number. Payphones are available in plenty.

Internet Usage

With the introduction of ADSL and Broadband, which are faster internet connections, internet use is quite popular. Larger towns and urban areas have access to high speed whereas dial-up and ISDN are readily available.

Postal

Letters, which are posted in mainland Greece, may take three days to a week to reach other European countries. The islands take longer or lesser based on their connectivity.

Investing into a property in a different country is a big decision and would require adequate research and many visits. Planning a budget and working by is advisable. It is smart to keep exit options available by studying the sellers market as property prices and situations dont remain constant. Professional opinion from a local lawyer or property consultant would be the best way to approach it. Factors like property valuation, rentals and growth potential are areas of expertise and it is best to hire the services of a proven consultant . A good understanding of the regulations for each country is also crucial before signing any purchase agreement. Be extra careful if it is a partnership or long term deal.



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Kathy Sandler asked:


Ancient Greece may have laid the foundations for modern culture and civilisation, including democracy, philosophy, education and a host of literary and mathematical concepts, but it is foundations of an entirely different kind that are now occupying the minds of savvy British property buyers. Heritage is only one of the many draw cards of a country that also has azure islands, Mediterranean sunshine and now, budget direct flights from the UK to attract second-home buyers.

The property market in Greece is already an established one, with a solid internal and international property market to regulate and stimulate prices, which have been rising steadily over the past decade. “Eighty per cent or more of buyers of property in Greece are lifestyle buyers, meaning that there is a strong resale market – prices are realistic and not driven by property investors," says Spyros Mantzos of A Property in Greece. But with an established property market, as well as the sharp appreciation of the euro, which Greece joined in 2001, opportunities for buying property in Greece for under £80,000 are not as widespread as even a few months ago. However, if you know where to look, there are still property bargains to be had in the whitewashed idylls of the Greek islands and mainland.

With over 150 of the 2,000 or so islands that make up Greece inhabited, not to mention a mainland teaming with cities, villages, harbours and beachfront, there is perhaps too much choice when buying property in Greece. John Batty, managing director of Greek property specialists Aegean Blue, says traditional property investors are still focused on the established destinations like Crete, Santorini, Corfu, Zakynthos and Mykonos. "Over the last year we have also seen the first 'structured products' arising in Greece, offering a comprehensive package of services including guaranteed rental income for the first years, furnishing packages and a number of exclusive services including spas, marinas, sport facilities etc," Batty adds.

This maturation of the types of  products available to foreign investors buying property in Greece, along with the takeover by EasyJet of GB Airways in December, widely seen as a harbinger of budget flights into the country, is expected to have a stimulatory effect on the property market as the influx of visitors fuels holiday rental demand and, in turn, demand for property in Greece.

Greece can also thank the Athens Olympics for raising the country’s profile and stimulating massive infrastructure investment, which has improved its already significant attractions. Capital growth has been around ten to15 per cent per annum over the last few years, and property rental yields can be as high as 7.5 per cent according to Mantzos. Of course, these vary according to the property and location, with Batty arguing that average returns range between four and six per cent: "Some developers offer guaranteed rental incomes for their projects targeting pure investors. In these cases four- to six-year rentals are offered on an average of five per cent per annum. Most desirable destinations are the northern coast of Crete, Zakynthos, Kefalonia, Santorini and Mykonos where the highest yields can be achieved. Upcoming property markets worth considering are the less developed island of the northern Aegean Sea, including the Sporades (mainly Skopelos and Skiathos) and Samos."

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and deservedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Mediterranean. In spite of its popularity and relative upward price pressure, properties under £80,000 are still to be found, with two-bedroom houses in need of work starting at around €50,000 (£38,300), according to Oonagh Karanjia of Crete Property Consultants. Renovated old stone houses can start from around the same price for a one-bedroom property, while apartments a few metres from the beach start as low as €55,000 (£42,150). For example, studio and one-bedroom apartments at Makrigialos in the south-east of the island, around 25 minutes drive from Sitia, start from €48,000 (£36,800) and are just 50 metres from the beach. In Papagianades, a two-bedroom renovated stone house with courtyard, roof terraces and sea views is for sale through Crete Property Consultants for €91,000 (£69,750).

A Property in Greece is selling a two-bedroom 60-square-metre bungalow in the 200-year-old village of Loutra, around ten minutes from the beach, surrounded by olive trees and with panoramic countryside views for €104,000 (£79,700). Foremost Villas has a two-bedroom apartment for sale at Drapanos Krystyna set in the hills inland from Kalives at the entrance to Souda Bay, with shared pool and views of the White Mountains for €93,000 (£71,250). If you fancy taking on a renovation project, Artec SA is selling a 60-square-metre stone house set in a 180-square-metre plot in the Apokaronas area, about 30 minutes from the airport at Chania; building permission for restoration work and extension of the property is already in place for the €55,000 (£42,150) home.

The verdant island of Corfu in the Ionian Sea off the west coast of Greece can also claim a fair bulk of the country’s visitors, who come to enjoy its mild Mediterranean climate and numerous architectural and archaeological attractions. Spiros Analytis, managing director of Corfu Property Agency, says a combination of planning laws, forestry and archaeological restrictions prevents Corfu from being turned into a concrete jungle and limits supply of property, which maintains prices. "The limited property supply rolls over to the rental market as well. Rental accommodation (beyond large hotel accommodation, which also fills to capacity during summer months) is highly sought-after. Privately owned properties thus yield excellent rental income." He adds that "returns of 6six to eight per cent are available through rentals via tour operators; and given the fact that there is excellent property rental income achieved, there has been in increase in demand for such properties."

Corfu Property Agency is selling a ground-floor, one-bedroom apartment, 40 metres from the beach in Acharavi, north Corfu, with a large balcony for €78,000 (£59,800). For off-plan property near the beach of St George in south-west Corfu, the company is offering a terrace of three, 38-square-metre one-bedroom cottages, each with a veranda area and small private garden, for  €75,000 (£57,500) for the middle cottage or €85,000 (£65,150) for the cottages on either end.

While the main islands attract a proportionately large quota of visitors to Greece, their popularity has spawned a second tier of emerging islands that have started to draw their own wave of potential property investors. Top of this list is Skopelos (where the film version of Mamma Mia was shot last year), which is luring quiet-living Greek island retirees and holiday-home buyers alike. The island is part of the Sporades chain and there are direct flights from the UK to nearby Skiathos; from there it is a 30-minute hop by hydrofoil to the port town or there is also a hydrofoil service from the mainland. Aegean Blue is selling a range of apartments at Skopelos Village, 500 metres from the beach, starting from €97,000 (£74,300) for a one-bedroom apartment. The apartments are situated on the bay opposite the capital port town of Skopelos and owners can walk into the town in under ten minutes.

On the island of Samos in the Aegean Sea, Barrasford and Bird is developing a resort and spa at Halcyon Hills, which will offer guaranteed rental returns when completed. Although it is above budget for individual buyers, the resort will also be offered on a fractional ownership basis that will cost from £16,375 to £32,750 for 1/8 or 1/4 of the property.

The beachside idyll of the Greek islands may have lured the majority of second-home buyers, but there is an investment case to be made for buying on the mainland. In response to the Olympics in 2004, property investment expert Obelisk says that "demand for rental accommodation was boosted and, in turn, heightened investors' interest in new residential opportunities, particularly within Greece's major cities." The scene of the Olympics and the historic capital Athens has seen sustained property price rises of around ten to15 per cent in the last few years according to estate agents Des Res. The company has one-bedroom apartments for sale in Larissis starting from £69,000 or similar-size off-plan properties in Athens starting from £73,000.

There are no legal restrictions on EU residents buying in Greece and the process is relatively simple, but fees and taxes of around ten to 15 per cent on top of the purchase price must be factored in. This includes transfer tax on resale properties or VAT at 19 per cent on new builds, municipal tax, lawyer's and notary fees and land registration. Greece's Piraeus Bank, which has a UK arm to deal with property investment in Greece and Bulgaria suggests buyers should discuss repayments with their lender so that the potential exchange rate risk between the euro and sterling can be covered from the start. This is particularly pertinent considering the currency movements in recent months.

 



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Nancy Eben asked:


Greece is one country where people come back to experience its beauty. A unique beautiful country welcomes millions of visitors from all over the world. Renowned for its beautiful beaches, varied landscapes, rich culture and traditions, picturesque villages, and archaeological and mythological heritage, gives many reasons for travelers in making Greece as their holiday destination. Surveys have placed the country in the 15th place on the world rating of popular tourist destinations. USA, China, Spain and Great Britain are some of the countries from where it receives majority of its tourists.

A combination of ancient and the modern features, there is no other place like Greece. Located in the southern Europe, it is a peninsular and mountainous country. It is bordered by the Aegean Sea, the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Of the total area, about one fifth of the area is islands. Only 169 are inhabited of more then 1400 islands in the country. An ancient country saw its tourism sector developing in the late 1960s and in the early 1970s. With the starting of the first hotel, number of hotels in Greece and other accommodation options has come up all over the country. Slowly tourism has caught on and today it has reached where it is most favorite destination among the Asians, Europeans and Americans. The best time to visit the country is from May to September when the tourist flow is at its peak. The sunny weather, varied landscapes and warm beaches all contribute to make this time of the year perfect for a break. With the tourist season around it is also the peak time for the Greece hotels too. This is the time for accommodation woes, as most of the hotels are fully occupied.

The astonishing beauty of Greece and its numerous beautiful islands leave the visitors amazed and they return with fond memories. Once on the country, you can experience the country’s culture, various colors, civilizations and importantly the feel of the magnificent Greek history. Visit the hundreds of archaeological and historical sites that splendidly portray the country’s past. Today, the Greek economy has a big contribution from the tourism sector, which is witnessing an increase each year. Though the region is very popular for its summer holidays, there are other forms of alternative holidays, which are gaining popularity. Some of the other holidays, which are promoted, are the ecotourism, winter tourist resorts, therapeutic spas, and discovery holidays. Greece hotels are playing a key role in promoting various specialized holidays, with excellent facilities and services.

An extremely popular destination, Greece enjoys a good weather, fine beaches and enticing food. Throughout your holiday, you will come across wonderful and interesting places to visit and equally warm, friendly people. A diverse country as Greece offers something for everyone, making it popular among families, couples, adventure enthusiasts and history lovers. Besides the world famous places like Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Rhodes, Greece has innumerable other places that offer memorable holidays.

Explore Greece its islands, Athens and other cities. With a host of accommodation choices to make, Greece never fails to satisfy its visitors. There are fantastic hotels in Greece, with hotels in Athens Greece offering superb accommodation.



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Nancy Eben asked:


Located in the southern region of Europe Continent, the country of Greece is on the southernmost tip of the Balkan Peninsula. It touches the borders in the north with Bulgaria, Albania, the FYROM, and Turkey. Its time honored customs and traditions can be seen in the works of art, its philosophy, sports, politics, language and the way of its people’s lives. As a tourist destination, Greece is a great place to hit during one’s holiday. Since every year scores of tourist and visitors pay visit to Greece, looking for an accommodation is at all a difficult task. Greece hotels offer the best of lodging facilities. Its natural environs and balmy beaches can bewitch anyone. Hotels Greece is well equipped with the best of facilities that will make your stay a memorable experience.

Archaeological sites - Monuments

The country of Greece is well known for its famous archaeological sites and ancient monuments. Most of the visitors come to Greece to pay a visit to its beautiful prehistoric architecture. Going by the UNESCO’s World Heritage there are numerous archaeological sites and cultural areas in Greece that can be visited by the tourists. Some of them are as follows:

Delphi

In the olden Roman times, Delphi was considered as the centre of the world. According to the legends, it was at this place that the two eagles sent out by Greek God Zeus from the ends of the universe to find the navel of the world met. The Pan-Hellenic Delphi is set within a most magnificent natural landscape, and for many centuries it was the cultural and religious hub and icon of harmony for the Hellenic world. It is basically located at the foot of Mount Parnassos, within the twin rocks of the Phaedriades and makes for a very serene Greece place of interest.

The Old Town of Corfu

A gorgeous and a must visit spot, the Old Town of Corfu, is located on the Island of Corfu off the western coasts of Albania and Greece. The town exists since 8th century BC and is one of the best archeological sites of Greece. Designed by prominent Venetian masterminds, the three forts of the town were used for four long centuries to guard the maritime trading of the Republic of Venice against the Ottoman Empire.

Olympia

Among the most famous sanctuaries of Greece, is the Olympia that is sited in western Peloponnese, in the strikingly pretty valley of the Alpheios River. The area of this site spreads across the southwest foot of Mount Kronios, at the union of the Alpheios and the Kladeos rivers. Olympia is dedicated to Zeus and is the principal holy and sports centre in Greece.

Ecotourism

The lush and green landscapes of Greece make it an ideal place for ecotourism. The country is endowed with rich and diversified natural environment. The country of Greece is abundant in natural resources which include numerous of indented coasts, huge rocky massifs, gorges, pristine lakes, caves, cascading rivers and unique natural habitats. In addition the pleasant climate of this place is truly enjoyable.

Well equipped with the best of amenities and rendering world class service, hotels in Greece leave no stone unturned to please their customers. Athens, a popular historic city, is also well known for its history. Hospitality of Hotels in Athens Greece are simply commendable.



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Nick Nikolis asked:


Vacationing in Greece is a pleasure in any season. Most folks opt to visit Greece during the summer months, when the sun is high and the surf is warm. But little do people know that a visit to Greece during the winter months can be equally as exciting and fulfilling, and even more steeped in pure Greek culture.

The benefits of visiting Greece in the winter months (considered December through March) are that while most of the other tourists are off vacationing elsewhere, those who call Greece their home embrace the off-season tourists with a first-hand look at what it means to be Greek.

For those of us who enjoy a little less of the tourism factor in our vacations, Greece in the winter is the ideal get-away. Hiking, biking, any exploration of nature is easier now, with the slightly cooler weather, and the number of other tourists at a minimum. Winter is the time to delight in the food the locals savor, to enjoy the nightlife known only to the locals and to participate in some activities and celebrations the locals relish only with their own.

Skiing in Greece is an after thought, or nonexistent one for most looking to vacation, while in fact, Greece provides some of the best skiing mountains in the world. Macedonia, Pelion, the Peloponnesus, Pelion and other cities to the north have ski centers and chalet type buildings in the mountains that provide ski lifts for downhill as well as cross-country runs.

Because Greece is blessed with such a temperate climate and beautiful natural environment, sailing in the winter is also a preferred sport by some. The cooler weather and less hustle and bustle from tourist crowds make it easier and even more enjoyable to sail and enjoy the natural surroundings. Whether it is bird watching, or ruins exploration.

Island culture abounds in the winter months, when tourists do not outnumber the locals. The usual tourist spots that are open in the summer months tend to close come wintertime. This means that the establishments that are open, are regular spots the locals visit. In turn, this generally means better Greek food to enjoy, and better yet, deeper, richer Greek culture including dog slide races, river wild rafting, and Alpine skiing.

Another great positive for enjoying Greece in the off-season, is of course, the lower rates. Traveling over seas is already costly enough, but if Greece is calling you, add lower rates on everything from airfare to hotel rates to the list of positives.

Apokreas, or carnival season, takes place in Greece around the end of February. The island of Skyros, Athens and Patras hold huge celebrations at this time of year. Apokreas refers to the time right before the 40 days of fasting before Easter begins. This involves feasting, celebrating, drinking and dancing - every night. What better way to see Greece than during this time, when many locals are celebrating more than they do the rest of the year?

More reasons to enjoy Greece in the wintertime is that ferries are always running to and from the mainland to the islands. If the weather becomes questionable or nasty, travel may become difficult, but for the most part, winter weather still tends to be quite exceptional.

The ruins are much more enjoyable to visit during the winter. The crowds are not in place, and neither is the heat. So it is easy to linger among the ruins, such as the Acropolis, the monasteries on top of the rock towers in Meteora or the Oracle of Delphi. One of the most amazing views of Athens can be seen from the Acropolis at sunset. Part of the reasoning behind visiting Greece is, no doubt, to explore the history of the native land, and the ancient ruins, so why would not someone want to take as much time as possible?

The picking of olives and production of olive oil is an important aspect of living in Greece. Homer referred to it as a "liquid gold" which is more a true statement today then he could have ever believed. A full 60% of Greece's cultivated land is devoted to growing olives. The fruit is hand picked by families and even relatives and neighbors join in on the fun. Since this process generally starts toward the end of the year, those visiting Greece during the winter can help pick olives themselves, and really be a part of Greek family traditions.

With so many reasons to visit Greece during the winter months, how could anyone who is thinking of planning a trip not be seduced by the history and natural beauty that are in abundance in this amazing Mediterranean country.



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Jon Lane asked:


Are you despairing of the UK property market and looking for an overseas property for sale? Greece could be the answer for you. In recent years Greece has become more than a popular location for tourists: it is a popular destination for conventions, international exhibitions and major sporting events. There has been a large investment in the infrastructure sine the Olympic Games were held in Greece in 2004, and Greece has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe – in many villages people still leave their houses and cars unlocked.

Property Investments

Greece is a popular tourist and investor destination and there is plenty of potential in the property market. Greece offers a wealth of different properties, from tiny holiday apartments to large stone mansions set in acres of land, with just about everything else in between. Each region has a typical type of property, for example, stone mansions in the Peloponnese and Pelion peninsula, windmill properties in the Cyclades, or Venetian townhouses in the harbour towns. Most British house hunters tend to head straight for the traditional coastal areas of the Peloponnese peninsular.

Prices remain very affordable in Greece and homebuyers get much more for their money than in other popular European holiday destinations. Properties for sale in Greece are almost all freehold. Once you’ve found the property you want to buy, you normally pay a 10% deposit to secure the purchase and the price. If a seller backs out of the sale they have to pay back your 10% deposit and an extra 10% as a penalty. All in all it takes about six weeks for the searches to be made and the legal documents to be prepared before you complete on your purchase.

Greece has a foreign policy that is geared towards the acceptance of outside investors, however, Greece is aware of it status as an underdeveloped haven for those looking for a quieter life style. For this reason, there are very detailed rules about what can and cannot be built on any given plot of land.

Tourism

In a recent announcement, the Greek government underlined the importance of tourism for the economic development for the country, and every year Greece plays host to 1000’s of holiday-makers who come to enjoy the stunning landscape: there are miles of gorgeous coastline dotted with busy resorts and quaint fishing villages, and some breathtakingly rugged mountainous regions; clean water, and sandy beaches.

Greece has a great culinary heritage and there are lots of mouth watering dishes to be savoured. In most resorts there are a plenty of restaurants offering typical local fare, and don’t forget the bars for the famous Ouzo, an aniseed flavoured liquor that is enjoyed throughout Greece.

Geography

Greece is a republic with a population of 10 million, and is situated in the south east of Europe on the Balkan Peninsula. To the north is Bulgaria and Macedonia, to the north west Albania and on the east lies Turkey.

Greece is a country comprised of over 3,000 islands, and has the richest flora in Europe with over 6000 species and 600 unique species. Greek countryside is diverse and varies dramatically throughout the country. There are over 300 days of sun a year, and the summers are hot and dry, often with a cooling breeze, while the winters are short and mild.

Conclusion

Greece is a beautiful country to live in and there are a wide range of properties to choose from. The property market in the UK may be rocky, but in Greece, property investors are making a good return. So when you’re looking for an overseas property for sale, Greece could be the market for you.



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Mansi Gupta asked:


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Ancient country of Greece which is famous in world history for its contribution to the humanity in culture, religion and art is located in southeastern Europe at the end of Balkan Peninsula. The country being located at the meeting point of three continents Europe, Asia and Africa was the meeting points for many culture and civilizations. All three Greece, the Roman and Byzantine Empires flourished here. Greece is known as birthplace of democracy, Western philosophy, Olympic Games, Western literature and many other forms of art and literature.

 

Economically, Greece is a developed nation and shipping is one of the major industries that plays very important role in economic development of Greece. Thus Greece being an ancient country as well as a developed nation provides ample scope for leisure as well as business activities and is frequently visited by a number of travelers. Greece is full of places of great tourist interests including its capital Athens.

 

 

Now after reading this much you must have developed curiosity to travel and soon would be planning to visit Greece. Arrangement of a good car renting agency should be major part of planning process for a tour of Greece. You can start searching for a car renting agency from your neighbor hood. You can select for car rental in Greece from a number of car rental agencies that provide same services on a very competitive rates. If you are frequent renter, then there are chances that you may get some extra benefit and perks from the renting agency.

 

If this is your first experience booking a car on rent you do not need to panic, anyway, you can seek assistance from a number of renting agencies which are located near by you in Greece, in case being a foreigner you can enquire from a branch of leading car rental agency at your place about their service in Greece. However, in present age of technology, there would be no better option for seeking car renting information than Internet. Online you get an easy access to a number of websites from a number of car renting agencies where you can search for available rates and models for a car. In meantime you can ask for specials and available discounts provided by the agency.

 

You can avail special discount and rates on car renting if you fall in special category of military personnel, senior citizens and auto club members. You don’t need to be disappointed, if you are not one from any of these categories yet you have right to car rental discount. Many airlines provide car rental discount on their tickets or travel package as they have arrangement with car renting agencies for their regular customers. Some hotels also provide discounted car rental facility on their accommodation packages.

 

Renting a car in Greece is not as straight and simple business you also need to qualify certain conditions of car renting agencies. You at least should be of minimum of 25 years of age to drive a car in Greece. Next to curb habit of rash driving a car rental agency may ask you for credit card advance for the safety of their cars. So you are now ready for thrilling journey of Greece.



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Les Calvert asked:


Perhaps it was the attention drawn to Greece when the Olympic Games were held there in 2004. Perhaps it was the entry of Greece into the European Union. No matter what the primary reason, Greece has begun to attract an ever growing number of foreign nationals who are investing in real estate in that country since the turn of the century. Indeed, to utilize an overused term -- when it comes to real estate, Greece is hot.

The greatest deal of real estate activity in Greece involves property that is used for vacation or holiday purposes. In point of fact, some of the fastest moving real estate markets in all of Europe are those that are located in Grecian resort communities. Literally thousands of people from a wide range of different countries can be found snatching up real estate in one or another of the various Grecian resort areas.

Foreign nationals have also invested heavily in commercial properties in Greece, particularly in the larger cities in the country. This includes investment in properties that house retail operations and enterprises as well as office buildings. The demand for office space within Greece -- again, particularly in the major cities -- has increased dramatically since Greece became a part of the European Union.

Investment Property in Greece

Again, in the aftermath of the Olympic Games, many real estate analysts maintain that the country -- particularly in and around Athens -- has been overbuilt, at least to some degree. This is a natural result in the aftermath of the Olympic Games and other large scale events such as the World's Fair.

In any event, this renders Greece an ideal locale for investment in real estate of all sorts -- industrial, commercial, residential, holiday property. This factor, coupled with Greece's admission into the EU, renders it a prime spot for realty investment. A significant number of foreign nationals have been attracted to the profitable Grecian real estate market at the present time.

Residential Real Estate in Greece - Single Family Properties

Low cost single family dwellings are rather difficult to find in the Athens metro-plex. If a person is interested in residential housing in that part of the country, the best bet at this point in time is apartments (which will be discussed in more detail shortly).

Understanding the functionality of the Athens residential market, there are a number of different areas beyond Athens in which single family residences can be purchased for a reasonable amount of money.

In addition, in different resort areas around the country there are some splendid (and pricy) villas and other properties that are attractive to well heeled foreign nationals who want second homes and holiday properties. With little difficulty on the hunt, a person with a bankroll to spend, can locate and purchase these types of homes.

Finally, there are farmsteads in different parts of Greece that are on the market. Some foreign nationals have taken to purchasing these types of properties which they then renovate and turn into magnificent second or holiday homes. Oftentimes, these properties can be purchased on the cheap and improved with only a moderate investment and expenditure. There are some foreign nationals who have taken to buying and then improving these properties after which they put them on the market and turn a tidy profit.

Residential Real Estate in Greece - Apartments

With the return of the Olympic Games to Greece, there was a boom in the number of apartments that were being constructed in that country, particularly in and around Athens -- the site of the games. Once the games concluded, there was a general consensus that developers had overbuilt apartments in Greece, again particularly in and around the capital city.

With this said and understood the apartment market in Greece (most especially in and around Athens) truly has become one that favours buyers at this point in time. Consequently, many foreign investors have been active in purchasing apartment properties in Greece. Many such foreign property buyers have realized outstanding deals in the apartment market in Athens and in surrounding communities at the present time.

Holiday Property in Greece

As has been mentioned previously, the vacation or holiday real estate market in Greece is "hot." Indeed, the demand for vacation real estate has continued to increase each and every year since the turn of the century.

The country of Greece is dotted with some of the most extraordinary resort, vacation and holiday destinations to be found anywhere in the world. Tourists from around the globe can be found flocking to Greece each and every year.

An ever growing number of foreign nationals have turned to purchasing vacation or holiday properties in different locations around Greece for two primary reasons. First of all, and as was noted, Greece is a very popular travel and tourist destination. Thus, many of these people are making the purchase of this type of real estate for their own, personal purposes. Through the ownership of this type of real estate, people -- including extended families -- can enjoy extended holidays in Greece.

In addition to purchasing vacation properties for their own usage, some farsighted individuals are purchasing this type of real estate so that they can then, in turn, rent or lease these properties to other individuals. Because of the large number of people who travel to Greece each and every year, this type of real estate investment is proving to be very profitable for a significant number of foreign nationals.

Specific steps to buying real estate property in Greece

On many levels, buying real estate in Greece -- particularly if you are a foreign national -- can be a rather complicated and sometimes confusing process. However, by understanding the process up front, and by understanding the various requirements and regulations that apply to foreign nationals seeking to buy real estate in Greece, a foreign citizen can successfully acquire property in Greece.

As a general rule, a foreign national actually can purchase real estate in most parts of Greece. However, a foreign national who is not from a European Union nation must obtain the prior approval from the local prefecture in certain areas in Greece: some regions of northern Greece, Rhodes and Crete. Many real estate agents aid foreign nationals in obtaining the necessary permission in these areas. Obtaining this permission from a local prefecture generally does not take a great deal of time and usually is granted without significant fuss.

Before anyone -- a citizen of Greece, the EU or another foreign national -- can purchase real estate in Greece, that person must first obtain a tax role number, known in Greece as AFM. This number is easy to get and can be obtained at any tax office in the country. The tax number can be obtained from these offices on the sport. Citizens of Greece or another EU nation need only show their government issued ID card. Citizens of other countries must show a passport to obtain the AFM.

Grecian authorities are very concerned about where a foreign national is obtaining money to purchase real estate in Greece. As a consequence, a person from another country interested in buying property in Greece will need to obtain what is known as a "pink slip" for wire transfers of money from abroad. The purchaser has to be able to demonstrate where the money is coming from and if he or she cannot, Grecian governmental authorities will consider any money wired into the country as income and will tax it accordingly.

In addition, money to purchase real estate in Greece must come directly from a Grecian bank and bank account. Therefore, before a person can actually make a purchase of real property in Greece, he or she will need to open a bank account. Provided that a person has proper documentation, and provided that a person has the pink slip to demonstrate the origin of the money involved, it is not difficult to open a bank account in Greece.

A public notary -- who is an independent official -- oversees the real estate purchase process. Once an offer is made on the property, a preliminary contract is drafted. A deposit of up to about 10% is placed on the property at the time this agreement is executed. (The deposit is not refundable unless the seller somehow disrupts or ends the sales process or unless clear title to the real estate cannot be had in the time allotted under the preliminary contract.) After the buyer obtains his or her financing, and the seller satisfies his or her own obligations under the preliminary agreement, a final contract is signed between the parties.

With the execution of the final contract, the ownership of the property will be conveyed legally to the buyer. The final contract is signed before the public notary. In addition, according to Greek law, the real estate agent or agents who have been involved in effecting the sale must be present for the signing of the final contract.

Property Abroad always recommends using a Solicitor or Lawyer



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Annie Hewitt asked:


 

Buying property in Greece seems to have caught the fancy of numerous property investors across the globe. Many people, particularly those from the UK, have found investing in their own country’s property market a costly affair. Therefore, investing in foreign property has becoming an increasingly attractive option and is becoming a trend of sorts.

 

Many countries that were, until now, avoided by oversea property investors seem to have sprung into prominence, which includes Greece. Greece now has a large number of foreign nationals who have already invested in property and this number seems to be growing by the day. The property market of Greece is one of the fastest moving in Europe because of so many overseas investors rushing to buy property in the country.

 

As most people know, Greece is a popular tourist destination, and it is no wonder, with its sunny climate, stunning views and laid back approach to life. The cuisine is known throughout the world, for example: moussaka, feta cheese, and dolmades. And many homes have a bottle of Greece’s famous Ouzo in their drinks cabinet. The cost of living is 40% lower than the UK, and in today’s economic climate that is welcome news.

 

Many people want to enjoy the delights of Greece on a regular basis and are purchasing a holiday home…or two…in the country. Some visionary people are taking the concept of purchasing holiday homes one-step further. They are buying property in Greece and then leasing them to enthusiastic travelers. A large number of people travel to Greece every year and renting a holiday home can often be cheaper that staying in a hotel over a period of time. Holiday homes also tend to be more personnel than a hotel room, which is another reason why they are popular with travelers.

 

Greece is also popular with sporting enthusiasts, after all Greece is associated with the first Olympic games and the country has won many sporting laurels. Greece hosted the summer 2004 Olympic games and one of the many benefits to hosting the Olympics is the value of property increasing. Holiday homes are now being regarded as a valuable investment that promises good returns in the long-term.

 

There are many types of properties available on the market and the average Greek property prices are: new 1 bedroom apartment from €50,000 to €150,000; new 2 bedroom apartment from €100,000 to €300,000; and renovated property from €50,000 to €300,000 plus.

 

When buying property, Greece, has more to offer than just holiday homes. Many foreign nationals have invested in commercial properties in the country, especially in the more developed cities. Commercial properties include retail enterprises as well as office buildings, and since Greece became a member of the European Union, the demand for office buildings has increased.

 

Whenever buying property in Greece, the investor must bear in mind that investing in any overseas property requires adequate planning, for example: looking at the market situation; the best location to invest in; when to buy; and what type of property to buy – for example: low-priced single-family homes are difficult to find in the well-developed city of Athens, but are easier to find in other cities such as Larissa. There is help at hand to assist investors: local real estate agents can acquaint foreigners to the realities of the property market; there are English-speaking lawyers specialising in property sales; and oversea holiday clubs.

In conclusion, when buying property, Greece has plenty to offer investors because the property choices are wide and varied, the country is popular with tourists, and property investors are already making excellent returns on their investments.

 



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