Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Athens, enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Greek islands, or settle in a picturesque village, renting property in Greece can offer a unique and enriching experience. However, navigating the rental market in a foreign country comes with its own set of challenges.
To help you make an informed decision and ensure a smooth transition, here are five essential things to know before renting property in Greece.
1. Research the Area
- Neighborhood Safety: Investigate the safety of the neighborhood by looking up crime rates and speaking to local residents.
- Amenities and Services: Check the proximity to essential services such as hospitals, schools, public transport, supermarkets, and entertainment options.
2. Verify the Property
- Physical Inspection: If you can, visit the property to check its condition. Look for any structural damages, water leaks, or maintenance issues. If something breaks down during your stay, ensure that the landlord is able to schedule any necessary repairs.
- Environmental Factors: Consider the property's proximity to natural hazards such as flood-prone areas or regions prone to wildfires. Depending on where the home is situated, Greece is known for having severe fires.
3. Financial Considerations
- Market Rates: Research the current market rates for similar properties in the area to ensure the rent is fair.
- Hidden Costs: Be aware of additional costs such as utilities, maintenance fees, and any building charges.
4. Documentation and Contracts
- Lease Agreement: Ensure there is a written lease agreement that outlines the terms and conditions, rent amount, duration, and responsibilities of both parties. For this, it would be advisable to hire a lawyer to assist with translations and for reviewing the terms of the agreement. A tenancy lease typically starts from 6 months and can be extended to 3 years.
- Security Deposit: Understand the terms regarding the security deposit, including the amount, conditions for its return, and any deductions. Landlords usually charge a one-month deposit for a tenancy lease, whereas some can charge a 3-month deposit for 3 year leases.
5. Legal and Professional Advice
- Legal Assistance: Consider hiring a lawyer to review the lease agreement and ensure it complies with Greek tenancy laws.
- Real Estate Agents: Use a reputable real estate agent familiar with the local rental market to help navigate the process.
6. Background Check
- Landlord Verification: Verify the landlord's identity and ownership of the property to ensure they are authorized to rent it out.
7. Understanding Local Laws
- Tenancy Laws: Familiarize yourself with Greek tenancy laws, including tenant rights and obligations, notice periods for vacating, and eviction procedures.
8. Negotiation
- Rental Terms: Negotiate favorable rental terms, including the possibility of rent increases and lease renewal terms.
- Repair Responsibilities: Clarify who is responsible for repairs and maintenance, and ensure this is clearly stated in the lease agreement.
9. Community and Lifestyle
- Local Culture: Get to know the local culture and lifestyle in the area to ensure it aligns with your preferences and needs.
- Noise Levels: Check for noise levels in the area, especially if the property is near busy streets, nightlife venues, or industrial zones.
10. Future Developments
- Urban Planning: Research any planned future developments in the area that might affect your living conditions.
- Infrastructure Projects: Be aware of any upcoming infrastructure projects that could impact accessibility or desirability of the location.
By taking these precautions, tenants can ensure a safe and satisfactory rental experience in Greece. To get legal advice, or for a lawyer to draft up a lease contract, contact our team for more information.
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