Content
In recent years, there has been a clear trend: thousands of Bulgarians buy property in Greece. This is no longer just an exotic dream, but a mass phenomenon driven by a combination of affordability, convenience and clear investment advantages. From small apartments in seaside villages to luxury villas and even building plots – investing in property abroad, particularly in our southern neighbour, has become the preferred choice for many. Let’s take a look at the main reasons for this boom and what makes Greece so attractive.
1. Geographical proximity and easy accessibility
This is perhaps the most obvious and strongest reason.
- At your fingertips: northern Greece is right next to the border with Bulgaria. Many popular destinations such as Halkidiki, Kavala, Keramoti, Thassos, Paralia Katerini are 2 to 5 hours drive from Sofia, Plovdiv or other major Bulgarian cities. This makes weekend visits, summer holidays or even regular use of a holiday property extremely easy and convenient.
- Ease of management: proximity allows owners to easily visit their property for maintenance, repairs or arranging rentals without the hassle of expensive plane tickets and long commutes.
2. European Union membership and common rules
- Equal rights: as EU citizens, Bulgarians enjoy the same rights when buying property in Greece as Greek citizens. There are no restrictions on nationality, bureaucratic barriers related to foreigners’ permits, or concerns about “war zones” as exist in some other countries.
- Single currency (Euro): Using the euro as the official currency in Greece removes currency risk and facilitates financial transactions, which is a huge advantage for Bulgarian investors.
- Transparency and security: although Greek bureaucracy can be a challenge, EU membership provides a legal framework and property protection that are in line with European standards.
3. Affordable prices and excellent value for money
Although prices in Greece are rising, especially in the most popular areas, they still offer better value for money than many other Mediterranean destinations and even some Bulgarian resorts.
- Lower entry barrier: In northern Greece, especially in smaller towns or inland in popular pockets like Halkidiki, you can still find cheap Greek property for under €50,000 – €80,000. These are mostly studios or small apartments that may need refreshing, but provide the opportunity for beachfront ownership.
- Long term investment: purchasing a property at these prices provides the potential for capital appreciation in the future, especially if the region continues to develop its tourism.
- Value for money: for the same price they would buy a property in a less attractive Bulgarian resort, Bulgarians can acquire a property in a prestigious Greek destination.
4. Income Generating Potential (Income Property)
The strong and constant tourist flow to Greece makes income properties extremely attractive.
- Short-term rentals: most of the purchased properties are rented out on short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com during the summer season (May-October). Depending on the location and the quality of the property, they can generate a significant income to cover annual costs and even make a profit.
- Long season: In areas like Halkidiki, the season is relatively long, allowing for greater occupancy.
- An investment for the future: the property can serve as a vacation property for the owner during part of the year and generate income the rest of the time.
5. Lifestyle and cultural attractiveness
- Mediterranean climate: long and sunny summers, mild winters, ideal conditions for rest and living.
- Greek cuisine: world famous, healthy and delicious.
- Rich culture and history: an opportunity to immerse yourself in the ancient history and culture of Greece.
- Tranquility and relaxation: far from the hectic city life, Greece offers an atmosphere of peace and siesta.
- Hospitality: the Greeks are known for their hospitality, which makes it easier for new owners to adapt.
6. Facilitated procedures and professional assistance
- Professionals: although the buying process requires several key professionals (lawyer, notary, engineer), many of them are already used to working with Bulgarians buying in Greece and offer services in Bulgarian or English.
- Simplified process for EU citizens: the lack of requirements for military permits or other specific checks needed for non-EU citizens makes the procedure much easier and faster.
Conclusion
The massive purchase of property in Greece by Bulgarians is not a random phenomenon. It is a logical result of the combination of geographical proximity, common EU membership, affordable prices, potential for profitability and unrivalled cultural and lifestyle appeal. Whether the target is a holiday property, a stable income property or simply owning a piece of the Mediterranean dream, Greece remains one of the most preferred destinations for investment property abroad for Bulgarian buyers.
This post is also available in: Български
