It is important to search in prime locations which offer low risk property investments yet, with the highest possible returns. Such opportunities are available in larger urban centres undergoing development projects such as Athens, Thessaloniki, or on the Greek islands which have a high demand for holiday or business rentals.

Foreign investors do not need to live in Greece to renew their Golden Visa Residency. Therefore, buying a property for rental is the most popular type of investment through which foreign buyers can also benefit from rental returns. People travel to Greece throughout the year either for business or pleasure. In either case short-term rentals are in high demand.

Non-EU retirees looking to invest should be aware that as long as they invest €250,000 they do not have to live in the property they have invested in. They can use the income from the investment to finance their lifestyle. This could mean using the rental income to rent in whatever part of Greece they would like to live in and come and go as they please free from immigration restrictions.

Investing in real estate is easy and safe. Potential buyers can see the property, study the surroundings, make comparisons with other locations in order to make a sound and informed decision. One can find locations which can generate a good fixed passive income return and appreciate in value.

Moreover, a property investor has control over his/her investment. There are holiday properties and residential, as well as commercial ones that have rental yields of between 5% to 7%.

In the long term property prices are sure to rise. Thus, having purchased property in the right location and at the right time, the investor will ensure he receives profitable returns from such a venture.

The Golden Visa Program allows non-EU investors to choose from many types of properties, offering a wide variety of real estate investment opportunities in reward for the Greek Residency Permit. There is a vast choice from traditional homes to the most modern constructions in the city centers or anywhere in the country. So, all the investor has to do is specify his preferences, needs and funds available for the investment.

There is a wide variety of properties available for investment in Greece. Such properties include:

Athens, of course, and the Greek islands are the most favored locations for investments in real estate. The property value varies per square meter (m2), according to the age, condition, location, access to public transport and amenities.

Up-and-coming areas in central Athens offer spacious apartments at affordable prices. They are close to amenities and transport and near more elite neighborhoods.  There are also plenty of opportunities for investing in older buildings or apartments in up and coming locations. Although their value would have rendered them unsuitable due to their age or condition they are often sold for next to nothing. However, they can be renovated in just a few months and ready for rental, increasing their rental income in no time.

On the other hand, the Northern Suburbs, since the recession, offer the best value and at affordable prices. This area is an ideal location for families, as most international schools are located there. Houses and apartments are spacious and one can enjoy fresh air and an abundance of open green space.

The Greek islands include some of the most popular, world-famous holiday destinations, islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Corfu, Skopelos, Hydra or Spetses, the list is endless. Property investment varies as there is an opportunity for every potential buyer. You can choose from an old, traditional family home with the distinctive Cycladic architecture, in narrow pebbled, windy, paths in picturesque villages or opt for a house on a large plot of land overlooking the Aegean or Ionian Sea.

Islands offer exclusive properties as well, thus providing greater revenue. The temperate climate and hospitable locals make them a safe destination for travellers and are also popular for retirees.  One should also keep in mind that at least 15 major islands have international airports connecting them directly with major European cities while Mykonos is directly connected to Doha giving it easy access to Asia and the rest of the world.

If your investment is solely for the acquisition of the Golden Visa Residency then opt for a commercial property. It gives a greater return rate, because rentals are higher compared to residential ones. It can be leased for a longer period of time which means less work for the investor and more revenue.

If money is not an issue, and you are thinking of expanding your business you can invest in an appropriate property for your business. The most profitable investments would be in the areas of: tourism, hospitality, exports, and logistics. In this case, it is important to note that the investors can work as shareholders or CEOs in their business and cannot look for employment elsewhere.