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Home finder Valentin (Athens)

Valentin or another of our home finders will handle your search.

Reliability of listings
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Your home finder is there to select the goods, he visits them, alone, with you in person, or with you by video. And above all, he knows how to rely on reliable business partners who only present him with quality goods.
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Market access
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Your home finder can offer you his own goods, he also has access to all the offers published on the market, and he knows the local agencies and landlords
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Scam risk
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At Remoters, we no longer count the number of French people who have signed a rental contract abroad, without understanding it. Some unscrupulous sellers take advantage of this to insert conditions that are disadvantageous for the tenant. This cannot happen when the contract is reviewed by our home finder.
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Access to local prices
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When you search alone, about 85% of the time goes into searching and 15% into viewings. With a home finder, you only do the viewings
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Application accepted
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In areas where homeowners have plenty of candidates to choose from, they rarely choose foreigners first. Your home finder will use his influence (and his mastery of the language) to put your case before others.
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Satisfaction
Only 20% of satisfied buyers according to the 2018 Crédit Foncier study. For its part, Remoters gets a score of 4/5 or 5/5 in 95% of cases
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Browsing online listings

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Uncertain
20%

Finding with Remoters

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Very likely
95%
Athens

Finding a long-term rental in Athens requires preparation, local knowledge, and speed. The city's rental market has tightened considerably in recent years, with rising rents, limited supply in central neighbourhoods, and a complex administrative process that can catch international tenants off guard. Key points to keep in mind:

  • Average rents for a one-bedroom apartment in Athens are around 670 EUR/month (Spitogatos Property Index, Q3 2025), with significant variation by neighbourhood.
  • Greek law requires a minimum residential lease duration of 3 years and mandatory registration of the lease with the tax authority (AADE).
  • Tenants must obtain a Greek tax number (AFM) before signing a lease.
  • A security deposit of 1 to 2 months' rent is standard.
  • The most popular neighbourhoods for expats include Koukaki, Pangrati, Kolonaki, Nea Smyrni, and the northern suburbs (Marousi, Chalandri, Kifisia).
  • Working with a rental search specialist significantly reduces the time, stress, and risk involved in finding a suitable long-term rental in Athens.

In short: Renting long-term in Athens is attractive but competitive. Average rents for a one-bedroom apartment are around 670 EUR/month (Spitogatos Property Index, Q3 2025), rising to 900 EUR/month and above in premium central and coastal neighbourhoods. You will need a Greek tax number (AFM), a security deposit of 1–2 months' rent, and a lease registered with the Greek tax authority (AADE). Greek law mandates a minimum residential lease of 3 years. Supply is tight in the most popular areas, so acting quickly and having your documents ready is essential. Working with a local rental search specialist significantly reduces the time and risk involved.

The Athens long-term rental market presents several structural challenges that tenants — especially those relocating from abroad — need to anticipate.

  • Supply shortage: Athens has faced a significant shortage of long-term rental properties in recent years. A large portion of centrally located apartments was converted to short-term holiday lets, reducing the stock available for long-term tenants. As of January 2025, the Greek government introduced a one-year moratorium on new short-term rental registrations in key central districts (including Kolonaki, Koukaki, Pangrati, and Exarchia) in response to the housing crisis.
  • Rising rents: Rental prices in Athens have risen steadily, with the most sought-after neighbourhoods seeing the sharpest increases. Competition for well-located, good-quality apartments is intense.
  • Fast-moving listings: Desirable properties are often taken within days of being listed. Acting quickly and having all documents ready is essential.
  • Limited English-language listings: Many landlords and local agencies operate primarily in Greek, making it harder for international tenants to access the full range of available properties.
  • Landlord preferences: Some landlords prefer tenants with a stable local income or Greek guarantors, which can disadvantage newly arrived expats.
  • Neighbourhood knowledge gap: Athens is a large, diverse city. Without local knowledge, it is easy to choose a neighbourhood that does not match your lifestyle, commute needs, or budget.

Navigating the administrative side of renting in Athens can be challenging, particularly for newcomers and international tenants unfamiliar with Greek bureaucracy.

  • Greek tax number (AFM): Obtaining an AFM (Arithmos Forologikou Mitroou) is a prerequisite for signing a lease in Greece. This tax identification number must be obtained from the local tax office (Eforia) and can take time, especially for non-EU nationals.
  • Lease registration with AADE: All long-term leases (60 days or more) must be electronically registered with the Greek tax authority (AADE) through the Taxisnet platform. The tenant must also accept the declaration online — a step that requires a Taxisnet account.
  • Minimum lease duration: Greek law mandates a minimum residential lease duration of 3 years, even if a shorter period is initially agreed upon. Tenants should be aware of their rights and obligations under this rule.
  • Language barrier: Lease agreements are typically drafted in Greek. Having a bilingual advisor or legal professional review the contract is strongly recommended for non-Greek speakers.
  • Proof of income: While not always mandatory, landlords increasingly request proof of income or an employment contract, which can be difficult to provide for freelancers or newly arrived expats.
  • Utility transfers: Setting up electricity (DEI), water (EYDAP), and internet contracts in your name requires your AFM and can involve multiple administrative steps.

Using a rental search specialist in Athens offers concrete advantages in a market that is competitive, fast-moving, and administratively complex for international tenants.

  • Local market expertise: A specialist knows which neighbourhoods match your lifestyle, budget, and practical needs — and can steer you away from areas that look appealing online but are less suitable in reality.
  • Trusted intermediaries: Many landlords in Athens prefer to rent through trusted intermediaries. A rental specialist knows these intermediaries and also monitors Spitogatos and XE.gr.
  • Time savings: Searching for a long-term rental in Athens from abroad is time-consuming and often frustrating. A specialist handles the search, shortlisting, and scheduling of viewings on your behalf.
  • Administrative support: From helping you obtain your AFM to reviewing the lease agreement and guiding you through the AADE registration process, a specialist reduces the administrative burden significantly.
  • Negotiation: An experienced local advisor can negotiate rent levels, deposit terms, and lease conditions more effectively than a tenant acting alone in an unfamiliar market.
  • Protection against scams: Online rental scams targeting international tenants exist in Athens as in other major cities. A specialist verifies the legitimacy of listings and landlords before you commit.

A rental search specialist working in Athens will carry out a thorough set of checks on your behalf before you sign any lease agreement. These verifications protect you from common pitfalls in the Athenian rental market and ensure the property and contract meet legal standards.

  • Property legal status: Confirming the landlord has the legal right to rent the property and that there are no outstanding disputes or encumbrances affecting the tenancy.
  • Lease agreement review: Checking that the contract complies with Greek rental law, including the statutory minimum lease duration and the correct registration with the Greek tax authority (AADE) via the Taxisnet platform.
  • Actual condition of the property: Verifying that the apartment matches the listing description — floor plan, fixtures, appliances, and any furniture included.
  • Building charges and utilities: Clarifying which costs are included in the rent and which are the tenant's responsibility (electricity, water, building maintenance fees).
  • Neighbourhood suitability: Assessing noise levels, proximity to public transport, local amenities, and safety — factors that are difficult to evaluate remotely.
  • Deposit terms: Ensuring the deposit amount and return conditions are clearly stated in the contract.
  • AFM (Greek tax number) requirements: Confirming that both parties have the necessary Greek tax identification numbers, which are required to register the lease with AADE.

A rental search specialist in Athens typically follows a structured process to find and secure the right long-term rental for you:

  1. Initial briefing: A detailed consultation to understand your requirements — budget, preferred neighbourhoods, apartment size, move-in date, and any specific needs (furnished/unfurnished, pet-friendly, home office space, etc.).
  2. Market search: The specialist searches both public listing platforms (Spitogatos, XE.gr) and their contacts among landlords and agencies to identify suitable properties.
  3. Shortlisting and viewings: A curated selection of properties is presented to you. The specialist organises and accompanies you (or represents you) at viewings, whether in person or via video call if you are relocating from abroad.
  4. Due diligence: Before any offer is made, the specialist verifies the legal status of the property, the landlord's right to rent, and the condition of the apartment.
  5. Negotiation: The specialist negotiates rent, deposit, and lease terms with the landlord on your behalf.
  6. Lease review: The draft lease agreement is reviewed to ensure it complies with Greek rental law and protects your interests as a tenant.
  7. Administrative support: Assistance with obtaining your AFM, registering the lease with AADE via Taxisnet, and setting up utilities in your name.
  8. Move-in support: A final check of the property's condition at handover, with an inventory of fixtures and fittings documented to protect your deposit.

Rental search support in Athens is particularly valuable for the following profiles:

  • International relocators: Professionals or families moving to Athens for work who need to find a long-term rental quickly and cannot afford to spend weeks searching from abroad.
  • International professionals: Those planning an extended stay in Athens who want a comfortable, well-connected apartment without the uncertainty of short-term accommodation.
  • Expat families: Families relocating to Athens who need to balance proximity to international schools, green spaces, and family-friendly amenities with their rental budget.
  • Students and young professionals: Those arriving for studies or a first job in Athens who are unfamiliar with the local rental market and need guidance on neighbourhoods and lease terms.
  • Non-Greek speakers: Anyone who does not speak Greek and needs support navigating listings, communicating with landlords, and understanding lease agreements written in Greek.
  • Time-constrained tenants: People with a fixed move-in deadline who cannot afford to lose time on unsuitable viewings or administrative delays.

Athens is a large and diverse city. Choosing the right neighbourhood for your long-term rental depends on your lifestyle, budget, and practical priorities. Here is an overview of the most sought-after areas:

  • Kolonaki: Athens' most prestigious central neighbourhood, known for its boutiques, restaurants, and proximity to Lycabettus Hill. Rents are among the highest in the city, typically 900 EUR/month and above for a one-bedroom apartment. Ideal for professionals seeking an upscale urban lifestyle.
  • Koukaki and Pangrati (Pagrati): Popular with expats and young professionals, these central neighbourhoods offer a lively atmosphere, good transport links, and a mix of renovated and older apartments. Rents are more moderate than Kolonaki. Note: as of January 2025, these districts are subject to a moratorium on new short-term rental registrations, which may gradually improve long-term supply.
  • Exarchia: A bohemian, culturally vibrant neighbourhood popular with students and creatives. Rents are relatively affordable but the area has a distinctive character that suits some tenants more than others.
  • Nea Smyrni and Kallithea (South): Family-friendly southern suburbs with good amenities, parks, and transport connections. A solid balance between cost and quality of life.
  • Glyfada and the Southern Riviera: Upscale coastal suburbs offering a relaxed lifestyle, beaches, and international schools. Rents are significantly higher, reflecting the premium location.
  • Marousi, Chalandri, and Kifisia (North): Green, family-oriented northern suburbs with good metro connections. Kifisia is the most expensive of the three; Chalandri and Marousi offer better value for families.
  • Piraeus: Athens' port city, with more affordable rents and good metro access to the city centre. Increasingly popular with tenants priced out of central Athens.

Rental budgets in Athens vary significantly depending on the neighbourhood, property size, and whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished. According to data from the Spitogatos Property Index (Q3 2025), the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Athens is around 670 EUR/month, with a realistic range of 560 EUR/month to 780 EUR/month for most standard units. In premium central districts such as Kolonaki or the southern coastal suburbs, expect to pay between 800 EUR/month and 1,600 EUR/month for a one- to two-bedroom apartment.

  • Security deposit: Landlords in Greece typically require a deposit equivalent to 1 to 2 months' rent, agreed upon at lease signing and returned at the end of the tenancy subject to the property's condition.
  • Furnished vs. unfurnished: Furnished apartments command a premium; unfurnished units are generally more affordable and better suited for long-term stays.
  • Utilities: Electricity, water, and internet are usually not included in the rent and must be budgeted separately.
  • Common charges (koinochrista): In apartment buildings, monthly building maintenance fees apply and are the tenant's responsibility unless otherwise agreed.
  • Rising rents: Athens has experienced sustained rent increases since 2022, driven by a shortage of long-term rental supply partly linked to the growth of short-term holiday lets. Budget accordingly for annual rent adjustments.

When searching for a long-term rental in Athens, several common mistakes can lead to wasted time, financial loss, or an unsuitable living situation. Here are the most frequent errors to avoid:

  • Not obtaining an AFM before starting your search: Without a Greek tax number, you cannot legally sign a lease. Apply for your AFM as early as possible to avoid delays.
  • Signing a lease without a Greek-language review: Lease agreements in Athens are written in Greek. Signing without a proper translation or legal review can expose you to unfavourable clauses.
  • Underestimating total monthly costs: Focusing only on the headline rent and forgetting to budget for utilities, building maintenance fees (koinochrista), and the security deposit can lead to financial strain.
  • Relying solely on online listings: Many of the best long-term rental properties in Athens go through local agencies or are taken very quickly. Local networks and specialist advisors can widen your options.
  • Choosing a neighbourhood without visiting first: Athens neighbourhoods vary enormously in character, noise levels, transport links, and amenities. Committing to a lease without an in-person visit — or without local guidance — is a significant risk.
  • Ignoring the minimum lease term: Greek law sets a minimum residential lease of 3 years. Tenants who are unaware of this may find themselves legally bound for longer than expected.
  • Moving too slowly: In a competitive market with limited supply, hesitating on a suitable property often means losing it to another applicant.

Here are practical tips to improve your chances of finding a good long-term rental in Athens:

  • Get your AFM early: Apply for your Greek tax identification number (AFM) as soon as possible — you cannot sign a lease without it, and the process can take time.
  • Use local platforms: The main Greek property portals are Spitogatos.gr and XE.gr. Many listings appear here before (or instead of) international platforms.
  • Act fast: Good apartments in popular neighbourhoods are taken quickly. Have your documents ready (passport, proof of income, AFM) so you can make an offer without delay.
  • Visit before committing: If at all possible, visit Athens and view properties in person before signing a lease. Neighbourhood character, noise levels, and building condition are hard to assess remotely.
  • Budget for all costs: Factor in the security deposit (1–2 months' rent), building maintenance fees (koinochrista), and utility setup costs in addition to the monthly rent.
  • Get the lease reviewed: Always have your lease agreement reviewed by a bilingual professional or lawyer before signing. Greek lease contracts are legally binding and written in Greek.
  • Consider the minimum lease term: Greek law sets a minimum residential lease of 3 years. Make sure this aligns with your plans before committing.
  • Explore less obvious neighbourhoods: Areas like Kypseli, Neos Kosmos, and Piraeus offer more affordable rents and are increasingly popular with expats and young professionals.

Remoters connects you with vetted rental search specialists who know the Athens market inside out. Whether you are relocating from abroad, planning an extended stay, or simply want expert support to navigate a competitive and administratively complex rental market, Remoters can match you with the right professional for your situation.

Our specialists help you at every stage: from defining your search criteria and identifying suitable neighbourhoods, to shortlisting properties, organising viewings, reviewing your lease agreement, and supporting you through the administrative steps — including obtaining your AFM and registering your lease with the Greek tax authority (AADE).

A Home Finder based in Athens searches Spitogatos and local networks, because many homes are let within days or never reach the main portals. They shortlist in Koukaki, Pangrati, Kolonaki or the northern suburbs to suit your budget, arrange viewings with photos or video and support your application.

Depending on the quote, they review the lease, which is written in Greek, and help you with the AFM.

The first conversation is free and without commitment, with a Home Finder based in Athens who speaks English. You give your budget, areas and move-in date, then they send a quote setting out the price, what is included and what happens if the search does not succeed.

They search, view with photos or video and follow the application through to signing. You pay online; the funds are held during the search and released to the Home Finder once it is complete.

They first check that the lease complies with Greek law, which imposes a minimum term of 3 years even if a shorter one was agreed, and that it will be registered with the AADE. They have the contract, written in Greek, translated and reviewed.

They also have the koinochrista (building charges), electricity, water and deposit spelled out, often forgotten in the budget.

You first need a Greek tax number (AFM) from the local tax office: without it, you cannot sign legally. The lease must then be registered online with the AADE via Taxisnet, and the tenant must accept the declaration, which requires a Taxisnet account.

Start the AFM early, as it can take time for non-Europeans.

What are you looking for in Athens?

One of our home finders will look for the ideal property for you
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Long-term rental

standard lease, for 12 months or more
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Short rental

for periods of 1 to 12 months
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Colocation

a room in an existing shared flat
Floor plan of a home with its rooms and furniture.

Long-term rental

Standard lease, for 12 months or more
Blue backpack and folding chair: short-term rental.

Short-term rental

For periods of 1 to 12 months
Illustration of three flatmates.

Colocation

a room in an existing shared flat

How does it work?

1

First contact:Your home finder offers a free call to understand your needs.

2
Quote: If you’re ready to move forward, you’ll receive a personalized quote via Remoters.
3
Mission start: Once approved and paid, the housing search begins.
4
Support: Your home finder assists you through to the lease signing and your arrival.
5
Feedback: Share your review — your satisfaction is our priority !
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Frequently asked questions

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What exactly does a Home Finder do to find you a rental in Athens?

A Home Finder based in Athens searches Spitogatos and local networks, because many homes are let within days or never reach the main portals. They shortlist in Koukaki, Pangrati, Kolonaki or the northern suburbs to suit your budget, arrange viewings with photos or video and support your application.

Depending on the quote, they review the lease, which is written in Greek, and help you with the AFM.

A hand pointing at a laptop screen while the other types.
How does a home search in Athens work when you are not there yet?

The first conversation is free and without commitment, with a Home Finder based in Athens who speaks English. You give your budget, areas and move-in date, then they send a quote setting out the price, what is included and what happens if the search does not succeed.

They search, view with photos or video and follow the application through to signing. You pay online; the funds are held during the search and released to the Home Finder once it is complete.

A hand pointing at a laptop screen while the other types.
Which traps does a Home Finder check for before you rent in Athens?

They first check that the lease complies with Greek law, which imposes a minimum term of 3 years even if a shorter one was agreed, and that it will be registered with the AADE. They have the contract, written in Greek, translated and reviewed.

They also have the koinochrista (building charges), electricity, water and deposit spelled out, often forgotten in the budget.

A hand pointing at a laptop screen while the other types.
Which formalities must you complete before signing a lease in Athens?

You first need a Greek tax number (AFM) from the local tax office: without it, you cannot sign legally. The lease must then be registered online with the AADE via Taxisnet, and the tenant must accept the declaration, which requires a Taxisnet account.

Start the AFM early, as it can take time for non-Europeans.

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