What to know and avoid when purchasing property abroad

Buying property abroad is exciting – you picture sunlit terraces, olive groves, and the Mediterranean lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. Yet behind every dream home, there’s a process that can feel unfamiliar: different laws, slower bureaucracy, and local customs that don’t always match what you’re used to.

At Corfuhomefinders, our long experience in the local real estate market has shown us that even the most prepared buyers can face surprises, and it’s not because they’ve done anything wrong, but because every country works differently. That’s why we believe in transparency and preparation. With the right information, you can enjoy the process, stay in control, and bring your idea of a home in Greece to life smoothly.

With this in mind, we created a guide for you where we’ll walk you through the most common challenges and misconceptions when buying property abroad – with practical tips and real examples from our years of experience. At the end, you’ll also find a free checklist to download and help you stay organised during your property journey.

1. Understanding the timeline

Many people expect the process to move as fast as it does in their home country, where sales complete in just two months – and yes, sometimes it can be done, but usually in Corfu (and across Greece), the process often takes 6-12 months from offer to completion.

Why does it take longer?

✓  Legal due diligence requires time, especially for non-resident buyers.

✓ Appointments with notaries and land registries can be delayed during holidays or busy periods.

✓  If a property needs clarification on planning, permits, or ownership, the timeline can extend further.

Our advice: Start your search early, stay flexible, and always include a time buffer. Buying a home in Corfu isn’t a race – it’s a journey worth doing properly.

2. Visiting only in summer

Corfu’s charm in summer is undeniable – wonderful weather, blue seas, and lively villages. But the island changes significantly in winter – it becomes quieter, greener, and sometimes rainy or even chilly. Most international flights stop, and some restaurants and shops close. For those planning a permanent move, it’s important to experience both seasons before deciding.

Ask yourself:

✓ Would I enjoy the quieter pace of local life?

✓ Are shops, tavernas, and transport connections convenient for me year-round?

✓ How comfortable would I feel living here when there are fewer people around?

✓ Would my friends or family still visit easily outside the summer season?

3. Navigating taxes, accounting, and paperwork

In Greece, property ownership comes with annual obligations, even for non-residents. It’s not difficult,  but it’s different.

Key points:

✓ Property owners must file a yearly tax return, with the help of a local accountant.

✓ Annual property tax (ENFIA), municipal fees, and utility bills add to running costs.

✓ If you plan to rent the property, there are extra regulations and declarations.

Our advice: Engaging a trusted accountant early makes everything easier and avoids future surprises.

4. Not consulting an engineer

Even small renovations like changing a roof, adding a wall, or dividing land may require formal approval in Greece. Local engineers play a key role in confirming whether a plot is buildable or if a renovation needs a permit. Rules are different depending on the area, plot size, and even neighbouring properties. Assuming you can “just start” without consulting an engineer can lead to unexpected costs or delays.

Our advice:

✓ Find a trustworthy engineer – we can recommend you one.

✓ Check that all documents and approvals are in place.

✓ Ask an engineer to check zoning and permit status before any work begins.

5. Communicating via your representatives

Sometimes, in the excitement of finding the right property, buyers and sellers start communicating directly, making informal arrangements before lawyers or agents are involved. While well-intentioned, this can lead to misunderstandings or agreements that aren’t legally valid.

For example, one side might believe a repair or improvement is included in the price, while the other does not. As your representatives, your agent and lawyer are there not to “control the process”, but to protect your interests and ensure everything is clear and documented.

Our advice: Keep your professional team informed of every step and agreement, because it saves time, money, and any possible future misunderstandings.

6. Viewing properties without planning ahead

Spontaneous trips can be exciting, but when it comes to property viewings in Corfu, planning is essential. Many homes on the island are used as holiday rentals, which means access must be scheduled in advance, especially during high season. Adding to that, on local holidays such as Greek Easter and August, most offices, banks, and notaries are closed, which can affect viewing schedules and transaction progress.

Corfu might look small on a map, but with around 611 km², it’s a surprisingly large and diverse island. Driving from the north to the south can take over two hours, particularly on scenic but winding roads through mountain villages. Each part of Corfu has its own character, landscape, and accessibility. It’s impossible to explore or view properties across all regions in a single day. That is why proper planning ensures you make the most of your time on the island.

Our advice: Contact us to plan your route carefully, book your viewings early, and avoid leaving them to the last minute, especially in summer when local professionals and agents are fully booked. Confirm viewing appointments well in advance and allow enough time to see each property thoroughly. And most importantly, stay flexible for follow-up visits or additional checks.

7. Trusting the wrong partners or people

Choosing the right agency is one of the most important steps. A good agent is not just a salesperson, they’re your guide, translator, and local advocate. Unfortunately, not all agencies operate with the same level of transparency. Some may advertise “buildable” plots without confirming them through an engineer, or make unrealistic promises about timelines or returns.

At Corfuhomefinders, we stand out for our transparency, trust, professionalism and honesty. We combine deep local knowledge with global standards through our partnership with Hamptons, one of the world’s most respected real estate networks. Our goal is to provide reliable advice that helps you make confident, well-informed decisions.

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Building or buying a home in Corfu is a truly special journey, one that blends the excitement of a new beginning with the beauty of island life. However, it requires patience, planning, and a clear understanding of local procedures like regulations, permits, and maintenance details, which can seem complex at first, but with the right guidance, the process becomes smooth and rewarding. At Corfuhomefinders, we guide you through every step from finding the perfect location to connecting you with reliable professionals and navigating all legal and technical aspects with confidence.