Buying in Crete from France: The 2026 Power of Attorney Guide

Buying a property in Crete without leaving France is entirely possible. Thanks to a special power of attorney, the entire process can be done remotely. But there are specific steps to follow and pitfalls to avoid. Here is the complete guide.

Special power of attorney: the key to remote purchase

Remote purchasing relies on a special power of attorney that authorizes your lawyer in Greece to act on your behalf. Two options to sign it:

• Before a French notary, with an Apostille of The Hague (international convention that validates the document abroad)
• At the Greek consulate in France

The power of attorney must be specific to the property in question. A general power of attorney is not sufficient for a real estate purchase in Greece.

Purchase steps, in order

1. 1Obtain AFM (Greek tax number): mandatory before any transaction. Your lawyer can obtain it for you with a power of attorney.
2. 2Due diligence by the lawyer: verification of property titles, mortgages, litigation, building permits, ENFIA payment by the seller, energy certificate.
3. 3Topographiko (topographic survey): mandatory since 2022 for any real estate transaction. Cost: 500-2,000 EUR depending on terrain complexity.
4. 4Preliminary agreement (if applicable): not always used in Greece, but recommended to secure the deal.
5. 5Notarial deed: signed at the Greek notary (by your lawyer with the power of attorney).
6. 6Land registry registration: finalizing the property transfer.

Timeline: how long does it take?

From accepted offer to notarial deed signing, expect 4 to 12 weeks. The main variables are the speed of due diligence, obtaining the topographiko and notary availability.

Acquisition costs: 7-10% of the price

Payment from France

Payment can be made from a French bank account. However, a Greek bank account is recommended for traceability and administrative ease. Your lawyer can guide you on this.

Tax framework: France-Greece convention 2022

The France-Greece tax convention (signed 2022, effective January 2024) clarifies the situation:

• Rental income from a property in Greece is taxed in Greece
• France grants a tax credit equal to the Greek tax paid
• Result: no effective double taxation on rental income

Current tax suspensions (until December 31, 2026)

• Capital gains tax on real estate: suspended until December 31, 2026
• 24% VAT on new properties: suspended until December 31, 2026

What Kairos does for you

Kairos supports French-speaking buyers from A to Z: connecting you with a bilingual lawyer, monitoring due diligence, coordinating with the notary, and managing your rental property once purchased. Everything is done remotely, with a single point of contact who knows the terrain.