According to senior executives from BARNES International Realty during their recent visit to Athens, Greece is increasingly positioning itself as a sought-after investment hub for international clients, members of the Greek diaspora, and local buyers in search of aesthetically pleasing, high-value properties for personal or investment purposes.
At an informational event focused on the prospective growth of the Greek market, it was revealed that Athens surged to 16th place in the BARNES City Index for 2025, up from 33rd in 2024, with strong potential to move into the top ten soon.
Additionally, for the first time, Athens and the Greek islands have ranked jointly at 11th among emerging investment destinations. This marks a notable shift for Greece in the luxury real estate market, establishing it both as an urban center and a prime tourist and investment location. Ms. Mitsotaki pointed out that the company’s clients—particularly wealthy foreign buyers—are interested not only in high-value properties but also in smaller, aesthetically appealing homes. Examples vary widely, from a €17 million property in Skiathos to a €150,000 vacation home in Karpathos.
Since 2019, BARNES Greece has seen its revenue grow nearly sixfold, indicating a strong demand and market recovery. Attractiveness remains high due to the Golden Visa program, the favorable tax regime for non-domiciled residents, and advantageous tax conditions for foreign retirees. Remarkably, 50% of buyers are international, influenced by lifestyle choices, investment opportunities, and heritage connections.
From Million-Euro Estates to €100,000 Properties
Notable property types in demand include seaside villas on islands, newly built homes along the Athenian Riviera, renovated apartments in central neighborhoods such as Kypseli and Pangrati, as well as investment properties for renovation or residence permits.
While property prices in Greece are climbing, significant growth potential remains, as they still lag behind countries like France and Germany. Monaco leads the global luxury market with prices soaring to €100,000 per square meter.
For €1 million, potential buyers can acquire various options, including a 230 sq.m. maisonette with a garden and pool in Kifisia, a 150 sq.m. seaside apartment in Voula, a 365 sq.m. Art Deco residence in Kypseli, or a 140 sq.m. home with a sea view in Tinos.
Emerging neighborhoods like Agios Dimitrios, Neos Kosmos, and Kypseli, along with lesser-known islands such as Kea and Kythira, are gaining traction among both local and international buyers. High-demand areas continue to be central Athens and coastal regions like Kolonaki, Glyfada, and Psychiko, along with established island destinations like Mykonos, Paros, and Corfu.
Reports indicate that Greek buyers are again becoming active in the luxury property sector. High-net-worth individuals—often termed “citizens of the world”—are seeking quality lifestyles and investments in Greece. Additionally, the “Back to Greece” movement is gaining momentum, with members of the diaspora and foreigners of Greek descent investing in properties to reconnect with their heritage and secure Greek or European citizenship.
There is also a noticeable influx of environmentally conscious investors pursuing energy-efficient and eco-friendly homes that align with their values. Demand is shifting toward unique properties in unexpected locations, suggesting that unconventional choices are influencing future trends.
The BARNES City Index for 2025 highlights Madrid’s 40% revenue increase due to the promotion of the “15-minute city” concept, while Dubai experienced a 13-15% rise in prices fueled by an influx of tech professionals and global buyers. Miami remains at the forefront of the U.S. luxury rental market, with over 200 companies relocating there in 2024. Monaco continues to have strong demand with limited supply and prices exceeding €100,000 per square meter. Meanwhile, Milan attracts significant investment interest, bolstered by its favorable tax regime and new developments.
Among the new emerging markets for 2025, the top five are London, Rome, Istanbul, Barcelona, and Budapest. Athens and the Greek islands made their debut in 11th place on this list, reinforcing the strength of the “Greece” brand in the global luxury real estate arena.
Katerina Mitsotaki, CEO of BARNES Greece, mentioned that the new office in Athens signifies a fresh chapter for BARNES Greece, underscoring its commitment to providing personalized and high-quality services. “Our specialized team and international expertise, supported by BARNES International Realty, aim to enhance the experience of clients in the premium Greek real estate market, consistently addressing the needs of globally mobile clients,” she noted.
Highlighting the strategic importance of Athens within the company’s global network, BARNES International Realty President Thibault de Saint Vincent remarked that Athens is a vibrant and mature destination for international luxury real estate, and that BARNES is committed to investing in the city’s ongoing growth.
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