In Greece, the notary public (συμβολαιογράφος) plays a central legal role in all real estate purchases. No property can legally change ownership without the signature and approval of a licensed Greek notary.
But while the notary’s involvement is mandatory, many foreign buyers mistakenly assume the notary protects their personal interests. This is not the case.
In this guide, we explain exactly what a notary does in Greek real estate transactions, what they don’t do, and why you still need your own lawyer to safeguard your rights.
🧑⚖️ What Is a Notary in Greece?
A Greek notary is a public official and legal professional with specific responsibilities:
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Drafting and authenticating the final property sale contract
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Verifying identities and documents of buyer and seller
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Ensuring that all legal conditions and taxes are satisfied
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Recording the transaction for public legal records
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Submitting the deed to the Land Registry or Cadastre
Unlike your lawyer, the notary is impartial — they do not represent either side.
📋 What the Notary Does in a Property Sale
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Prepares the deed | Drafts the final sale contract based on lawyer inputs |
| Checks seller’s ownership | Verifies title, usually with help from buyer’s lawyer |
| Ensures tax compliance | Requires both parties to present clearance certificates |
| Collects transaction taxes | Coordinates payment of Property Transfer Tax |
| Oversees signing ceremony | Hosts and supervises the official contract signing |
| Registers the deed | Files the transaction with Land Registry or Cadastre |
📝 You cannot complete a property sale in Greece without a notary.
❌ What the Notary Does Not Do
Many buyers mistakenly believe the notary replaces their lawyer. Here’s what notaries do not do:
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❌ Represent your interests or negotiate terms
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❌ Perform full legal due diligence
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❌ Advise you on zoning, inheritance, or taxation
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❌ Warn you about co-ownership risks or debts on the property
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❌ Translate or explain legal risks in your language
That’s why hiring your own independent lawyer is essential—especially if you’re a foreigner.
🤝 How the Lawyer and Notary Work Together
The lawyer protects your interests, and the notary ensures the transaction is legally recognized.
Typical collaboration:
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Your lawyer prepares the sale terms, performs due diligence, verifies debts or title, and negotiates conditions
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The notary uses those terms to draft the contract and host the signing
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Afterward, your lawyer ensures registration, tax filing, and compliance with ongoing obligations
✅ At Borderless Lawyers, we work closely with trusted notaries across Greece to ensure smooth closings for foreign buyers.
💸 Notary Fees in Greece
| Fee Type | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Notary base fee | 0.8%–1.2% of purchase price (excluding VAT) |
| Drafting & registration | Included in above |
| Extras | Charges for extra copies, translations, or inheritance declarations |
Notary fees are typically paid by the buyer.
🛂 Can the Notary Sign on Your Behalf?
No — the notary does not act under Power of Attorney. If you’re not in Greece, you must give POA to your lawyer, who then signs before the notary in your place.
This is the most common process for foreigners buying remotely.
🏠 Other Real Estate Tasks Notaries Handle
Notaries may also assist with:
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Drafting inheritance deeds
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Handling gift transfers of property
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Declaring parental transfers
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Facilitating mortgages or loan-secured transfers
However, each of these also requires legal checks by your lawyer.
⚠️ Risks of Relying on the Notary Alone
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🛑 They may not verify outstanding utility or municipal debts
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🛑 They will not stop the deal if it’s unfavorable to you
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🛑 They are not required to speak your language or explain clauses
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🛑 If a mistake is made, it may be very difficult to reverse after registration
That’s why Borderless Lawyers always reviews notarial drafts before signing and advises you in English (or your preferred language).
💼 How Borderless Lawyers Supports You
We work with notaries throughout Greece to make sure:
✅ The contract matches your best interests
✅ All documents are correct before signing
✅ Taxes are paid and recorded properly
✅ You’re represented by POA if you’re abroad
✅ The notarial deed is registered and copies provided
We guide you every step of the way — before, during, and after the notarial signing.
❓ FAQ – Greek Notaries & Property Transactions
Q: Can I choose my notary?
A: Yes — in most cases, the buyer selects the notary, especially if they are paying the fees.
Q: Can the notary explain the contract in English?
A: Not usually. If needed, a certified interpreter or bilingual lawyer (like us) should be present.
Q: Do I need to be physically present for the notarial signing?
A: No — we can act for you via Power of Attorney and sign on your behalf.
🏛️ Buy With Confidence, Not Assumptions
The notary makes your property purchase official — but only your lawyer protects your interests. Don’t make the mistake of thinking the notary is enough.
👉 Book a consultation with Borderless Lawyers and let us handle your Greek real estate deal properly — from legal checks to notarial closing.