Buying a home in Zakynthos starts with a clear brief and a well-organised property search. Whether you are considering a completed villa, an off-plan home or land for a future project, prepare the questions that will help you compare your options and appoint the right advisers.
Define the home you want to own
Decide how often you will use the property, who will stay there and how much maintenance you are comfortable managing. Separate essentials from preferences: bedroom count, step-free access, privacy, a pool, proximity to services and outdoor living space. Keep an overall budget as well as a target purchase price.
Compare locations through actual viewings
Shortlist properties in areas such as Keri, Vasilikos or other parts of Zakynthos according to your priorities. Check the approach road, neighbouring properties, noise and the relationship between the house and its outdoor spaces. For a remote viewing, request a continuous walkthrough, floor plans and clear explanations of anything photographs do not show.
Understand exactly what is being offered
Ask whether the property is completed, under construction or off-plan. Confirm which areas refer to the house and which to the land, what is included in the asking price and which items remain to be completed. For an existing home, discuss its condition with an independent engineer. For a proposed project, request the current permit information, plans and a written specification.
Organise independent legal and technical checks
Before signing commitments or paying a deposit, ask your lawyer to explain the proposed terms, refund conditions and checks needed for the transaction. Ask the legal and technical advisers to identify the documents they require to review ownership, boundaries, access and building status. Agree who is responsible for each check and how findings will be reported to you.
Prepare the financial and administrative questions
The Greek tax authority, AADE, provides information on the tax registration and transfer-tax steps associated with buying property. Ask your notary and tax adviser which rules, exemptions and documents apply to your purchase. Request an itemised estimate covering taxes, professional fees, registration and any other transaction costs rather than relying on a single percentage quoted online.
Plan for ownership after completion
Allow for insurance, utilities, maintenance and the costs of looking after the property when you are away. Ask your accountant about property declarations and annual obligations, including E9 and ENFIA. If you intend to rent out the home, obtain separate advice on the requirements and realistic operating costs before including rental income in your budget.
Your first conversation with Karetta Realty
Send us your preferred areas, property type, total budget and viewing dates. Our property, architecture and construction services can help you explore suitable options and understand the project questions to take forward with your advisers.
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Official information
See AADE’s guidance before buying a property and after buying a property. This article is a preparation checklist, not individual legal or tax advice. Confirm current requirements for your circumstances.
