Property Buying, Selling, Renting Surprisingly Affordable
Surprisingly Affordable
Given the cachet and chic, upmarket style of the Greek Islands, it is surprising how affordable property and living there is. Many a would-be property purchaser has dismissed the Greek Islands as a destination, solely on the grounds of believing it is incredibly expensive without even looking. This may be true if your must-have is a 5 bed, 4 bath villa with infinity pool overlooking the sea, together with a private mooring for your yacht. However, for the majority of buyers who are seeking a less luxurious home and associated high-end lifestyle, there are many affordable properties on offer and a fantastic way of living in one of the best locations in the world.
Available property
There is a wealth of property for sale on the islands: anything from a run-down olive press in the countryside through to pretty ready to move in family homes overlooking the sea. In fact, something to suit everyone; and, importantly, their purse.
Quest Greek Islands took a quick look around the islands to see what we could find for less than 100,000 euros. Here is just a small selection:
On the island of Kefalonia, a pretty two bed village house for renovation with great sea views (see right). The asking price is negotiable and the house, although small, has the possibility of being extended.
Two bedrooms built on a nice manageable plot of 380 sq.m. The garden is overgrown but nothing that a bit of hacking down and a nice patio wouldn't sort out. It is set in the small village of Kaminarata, which has a mini-market, overlooking the beautiful gulf of Argostoli. In addition to the main building, with its pretty blue shutters, there is also an outbuilding of 16 sq. m. which contains a traditional stone oven and could be used to create additional accommodation. There is direct access to the house from the road and it would be of beneift to create a parking place within the boundaries of the property.
www.sunshineestates.net
Price 58,000 euros
Fully furnished sea view apartment (left), just put down your suitcases and start enjoying the lifestyle. Built in 2007.
One bedroom, located in the marina at Hersonissos (Crete). Fitted wardrobes, open plan living and fitted kitchen and air conditioning.
Very pretty and in a fab position with all amenities to hand. Decorated beautifully in neutral colours and nice furniture.
www.igakoumakis.gr
Price 88,000 euros
Recently reduced in price, this is a real bargain. Two bedroom house with excellent sea views and only four minutes from Acharavi (Corfu). A huge 109 sq.m of living space in Strongili village, completely refurbished on three levels (photo below left).
Comprising - newly fitted kitchen leading to balcony, large open lounge diner with views to countryside, master bedroom with tiled veranda and sea views, second bedroom, newly fitted bathroom.
As an addded bonus there is central heating and double glazing!
Regular daily bus service to Corfu Town just one minute from the house. Two tavernas within a short walk.
www.apropertyingreece.com
Price 90,000 euros
A lovely little town house just a few minutes walk from the main shopping street of Skiathos Town and the popular Megali Ammos beach.
You might think being so close to all amenities, it could be noisy, but this is far from the truth as the area is very quiet with little winding lanes. In a traditional part of town away from the main tourist traps (see right).
Enough beaches, bars, shops and restaurants to keep any buyer happy. A simple honest town house with large windows and plenty of light as the house catches the sun from early morning to late afternoon.
www.viviun.com
Price 89,000 euros
Cost of living
You don't need to be rich as you can easily get by on the islands with about 15,000 euros a year. Rough guidelines for yearly cost of living and running your Greek home are:
Running costs of the house 8400
Car insurance and petrol 1000
Eating out 3 times a week, visiting family and friends back home, clothes 3700
Emergency fund 2000
Running a property in the UK, France or Italy would likely be 12,000 alone without even considering a car, holidays, or other items.
Lifestyle
It is impossible to do justice to the sublime lifestyle on the Greek Islands in words. You really need to experience the laid-back atmosphere, the wonderful scenery, crystal clear seas, the Greek friendliness, no mass development, cafe culture - all with that touch of island exclusivity!
If you are looking for an affordable home in a truly remarkable location and a wonderful lifestyle, what are you waiting for?