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Find your place in Athens with a local home finder

For students, companies and professionals, all over the world.

Remoters puts you in touch with a home finder living there, who speaks your language, searches to your criteria, views on your behalf and stays with you through to the signed lease.

Your home finder, on site
An English-speaking home finder, based on site

They know the neighbourhoods, the rents and how the local market works, and they speak your language.

Shortlists properties and visits them for you

Listings, agencies, local network: they shortlist to your criteria and view properties on your behalf.

Backs your application and negotiates the lease

They present your application to the landlord and negotiate the lease terms for you.

Every step protected, no hidden surprises

Verified home, lease reviewed, secure payment: you sign knowing exactly what you are getting.

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220+ cities
60+ countries

What does a home finder actually do?

Six missions, from the first brief to key handover.

Illustration: scoping the search

They scope your search

Real budget, viable neighbourhoods, size, life constraints. The brief is written before the first listing — that's what saves three months of pointless viewings.

Illustration: local market specialist

They comb the whole market

Portals, local agencies, private landlords: your home finder checks every new listing daily and contacts agencies on your behalf, so nothing slips through.

Illustration: viewings and neighbourhoods

They visit for you

Filmed viewings, an honest report, walks through the neighbourhood at different hours. You no longer need to travel: your home finder does it all for you remotely.

Illustration: price negotiation

They assess and negotiate

Local rent levels, service charges, the state of the property, lease length. Concrete arguments to negotiate the terms — on your side, this time.

Illustration: securing the application

They secure the application

Locally required documents, guarantor, translation, review of the lease and the inventory. This is where foreign applications most often fall apart.

Illustration: saving time when settling in

They stay with you until you're settled in

Inventory, key handover, utilities set-up, first admin steps. Your home finder doesn't disappear once the contract is signed: they remain a valuable contact for any questions about life on the ground.

What you get

Safety

No scams, verified homes, secure payment.

Speed

A home found in a few weeks.

Human

Guided by a local home finder, in your language.

Peace of mind

Everything handled remotely, stress-free.

How it works

Four steps, from your request to the signed lease.

1

We get acquainted

You start by filling in a short questionnaire to tell us a bit more about your search.

2

Free first call

One of our home finders then takes over and contacts you for a free first conversation. The goal? Understanding exactly what you need.

3

The adventure begins

If it clicks and you want to move forward, you receive a tailored quote. Once approved, the search begins!

4

Heading to your new home

Your home finder searches for you, shares their finds, stays with you through to signing the lease — all that’s left is packing your bags.

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Athens

Athens is a vibrant Mediterranean capital offering long-term rental options across a wide range of budgets, from affordable studios in Exarchia (from 500 EUR/month) to upscale apartments in Kolonaki (up to 2,000 EUR/month). The rental process requires obtaining a Greek tax number (AFM) and registering the lease on the Taxisnet platform, with contracts legally required to be in Greek. Key residential neighbourhoods include Pangrati, Koukaki, Glyfada, and Kifisia, each offering a distinct lifestyle and price point. Athens' public transport network — including the metro, tram, and suburban railway (Proastiakos) — makes car-free living practical across most of the city. The long-term rental market has tightened since 2022, with a government moratorium on new short-term rental registrations in central districts introduced in January 2025 to improve availability for long-term tenants.

Athens in brief: A competitive but accessible long-term rental market with one-bedroom apartments ranging from 500 EUR/month (Exarchia, Piraeus) to 2,000 EUR/month (Kolonaki). You must obtain a Greek tax number (AFM) before signing a lease, and all contracts must be registered on Taxisnet. Top neighbourhoods for expats include Koukaki, Pangrati, Glyfada, and Kifisia. Expect to pay a security deposit of 1–2 months' rent and an estate agent commission of one month's rent if using a mesitis. The city's metro and tram network make car-free living easy and affordable.

Athens is one of the most compelling cities in Europe for long-term relocation. Its combination of Mediterranean climate, rich cultural heritage, affordable cost of living relative to Western European capitals, and a growing international community makes it an increasingly popular destination for expats and families alike.

  • Climate: Athens is among the top five sunniest cities in Europe, averaging more than 2,700 hours of sunshine per year (International Living). Mild winters and warm, dry summers make outdoor living possible year-round.
  • Culture and history: The city is home to world-class landmarks including the Acropolis, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Benaki Museum, alongside a thriving contemporary arts and food scene.
  • Transport: Athens' public transport network — comprising the metro, tram, suburban railway (Proastiakos), and bus lines — is efficient and affordable. A monthly pass costs approximately 30 EUR/month, and the metro connects the city centre to Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos.
  • International community: A large and active expat community, English widely spoken among younger Greeks, and a growing number of co-working spaces make integration relatively straightforward.
  • Affordability: Compared to Paris, Amsterdam, or Barcelona, Athens offers a significantly lower cost of living, with comfortable long-term rentals available from 700 EUR/month in central neighbourhoods.

Day-to-day life in Athens as a long-term tenant is generally comfortable and well-connected. Here is what to expect in practice:

  • Transport: The Athens metro (3 lines), tram (connecting the city centre to the coast), and suburban railway (Proastiakos) cover most of the city and its suburbs. A monthly transport pass costs approximately 30 EUR/month. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available and affordable.
  • Utilities: Electricity is supplied by DEI (Public Power Corporation) or private providers; water by EYDAP. Average monthly utility bills (electricity, water, heating, internet) range from 150 EUR/month to 200 EUR/month for a standard apartment. Heating costs can be higher in winter if the apartment uses oil-fired central heating.
  • Building fees: Most apartment buildings charge monthly koinochristos (common area maintenance fees), typically between 30 EUR/month and 80 EUR/month. Confirm this amount with your landlord before signing.
  • Healthcare: Athens has both public hospitals and a well-developed private healthcare sector. Expats from EU countries can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC); non-EU residents are advised to take out private health insurance.
  • Language: English is widely spoken in central Athens, particularly among younger residents and in commercial areas. For official administrative tasks — tax office, utility registration, lease signing — Greek is required, and the assistance of a local accountant or lawyer is strongly recommended.
  • Shopping and daily life: Central neighbourhoods are well served by supermarkets, local markets (laiki agora), pharmacies, and cafés. The Central Market (Varvakios Agora) near Monastiraki is a landmark for fresh produce. Most amenities are within walking distance in dense central districts.

The Athens long-term rental market has undergone significant transformation in recent years. Demand from international residents and students has grown steadily, while the supply of long-term rentals has tightened as many landlords shifted properties to short-term platforms such as Airbnb. In response, the Greek government introduced a moratorium on new short-term rental registrations in Athens' 1st, 2nd, and 3rd municipal districts — covering Kolonaki, Koukaki, Pangrati, and Exarchia — effective January 2025, with the aim of restoring housing availability for long-term tenants.

According to Statista (Q2 2024), average residential rents in southern Athens reached approximately 12.50 EUR per square metre per month. A typical two-bedroom apartment in Athens now rents for between 600 EUR/month and 1,600 EUR/month depending on the neighbourhood (Brevitas, 2024). Rents have risen across most central districts, with the strongest increases recorded in Koukaki, Pangrati, and Exarchia. The northern suburbs (Kifisia, Marousi, Chalandri) and the coastal south (Glyfada, Vouliagmeni) offer a wider range of larger apartments and family homes, generally at higher price points than inner-city studios.

The market is competitive for well-located, furnished apartments in the 700 EUR/month to 1,200 EUR/month range. Prospective tenants are advised to begin their search at least four to six weeks before their intended move-in date and to have all required documents ready — including a valid AFM, passport or residence permit, and proof of income.

Athens is a city of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character, rental price range, and lifestyle profile. Choosing the right area is one of the most important decisions for any long-term tenant.

  • Kolonaki: Athens' most prestigious central neighbourhood, at the foot of Lycabettus Hill. Home to designer boutiques, galleries, and upscale restaurants. Rents range from 1,200 EUR/month to 2,000 EUR/month for a one-bedroom apartment. Best suited to professionals and luxury seekers.
  • Koukaki: A central, walkable neighbourhood just south of the Acropolis, popular with creatives. Rents typically range from 800 EUR/month to 1,400 EUR/month. Subject to the 2025 short-term rental moratorium, which may improve long-term availability.
  • Pangrati (Pagrati): An authentic, residential neighbourhood east of the city centre, known for its local tavernas and relaxed atmosphere. Rents range from 700 EUR/month to 1,200 EUR/month — one of the best value-for-money options for central living.
  • Exarchia: A bohemian, student-oriented neighbourhood with a strong alternative culture scene. The most affordable central option, with rents from 500 EUR/month to 800 EUR/month. Best for artists, students, and young expats.
  • Glyfada: A coastal suburb on the Athenian Riviera, approximately 15 km south of the city centre. Popular with families and young professionals. Rents range from 1,000 EUR/month to 1,600 EUR/month.
  • Kifisia: A leafy, upscale northern suburb with international schools and a quiet residential feel. Rents range from 800 EUR/month to 1,400 EUR/month. Favoured by families and long-term expats.
  • Piraeus: Athens' port city, offering the most affordable rents in the greater Athens area — from 500 EUR/month to 900 EUR/month — with good metro connections to the city centre.

Athens remains one of the more affordable European capitals for long-term renters, though rents have risen steadily since 2022 due to strong demand and a reduction in long-term rental supply linked to the growth of short-term platforms. According to Numbeo (2025), a single person can live comfortably in Athens for approximately 1,500 EUR/month to 2,000 EUR/month all-inclusive (rent, utilities, food, transport), while a couple typically budgets between 2,000 EUR/month and 2,800 EUR/month.

Rent is the largest variable in any Athens budget. The most affordable long-term rentals are found in Exarchia, Piraeus, and outer suburbs, while the highest rents are concentrated in Kolonaki and the Athenian Riviera (Glyfada, Vouliagmeni). When comparing neighbourhoods, factor in transport costs: Athens' metro, tram, and bus network is efficient and a monthly pass costs approximately 30 EUR/month, making car-free living very practical in most central districts.

Long-term rental budgets in Athens vary significantly depending on the neighbourhood, apartment size, and level of furnishing. According to data compiled by Numbeo and iLand (2024–2025), a one-bedroom apartment in central Athens typically rents for between 700 EUR/month and 1,200 EUR/month, while a comparable unit in suburban areas such as Marousi can be found for 500 EUR/month to 900 EUR/month. Upscale central neighbourhoods like Kolonaki command rents of 1,200 EUR/month to 2,000 EUR/month for a one-bedroom flat, reflecting their proximity to boutiques, galleries, and Lycabettus Hill.

For a two-bedroom apartment, expect to budget between 900 EUR/month and 1,600 EUR/month in most central districts, with coastal areas like Glyfada ranging from 1,000 EUR/month to 1,600 EUR/month. More affordable options are available in Exarchia (from 500 EUR/month) and Piraeus (from 500 EUR/month to 900 EUR/month). On top of rent, tenants should budget for utilities (electricity, water, heating, internet) of approximately 150 EUR/month to 200 EUR/month, plus building maintenance fees (koinochristos), which typically add 30 EUR/month to 80 EUR/month depending on the building.

Relocating to Athens is straightforward for most expats, but several common mistakes can complicate or delay your rental search:

  • Not obtaining an AFM (Greek tax number) before searching: Most landlords require a valid AFM to register the lease on Taxisnet. Without it, you cannot legally sign a long-term rental contract. Apply at your local tax office (DOY) as a first step upon arrival.
  • Signing a contract without a Greek-language version: Greek law requires rental contracts to be in Greek for Taxisnet registration. Even if your landlord provides an English translation, only the Greek text is legally binding. Always have the Greek version reviewed by a bilingual professional or lawyer.
  • Underestimating total monthly costs: Many tenants focus only on the headline rent and overlook building maintenance fees (koinochristos), utilities, and internet. These can add 200 EUR/month to 300 EUR/month to your monthly outgoings.
  • Skipping the property inspection: Always conduct a thorough inspection before signing and document any existing damage in writing. This protects your security deposit (typically 1–2 months' rent) at the end of the lease.
  • Ignoring the statutory lease duration: Under Greek law, residential leases are treated as three-year contracts even if signed for a shorter period. Leaving before the end of the agreed term may expose you to financial penalties. Clarify early-termination clauses before signing.
  • Relying solely on online listings: Popular platforms like Spitogatos.gr, Xe.gr, and Tospitimou.gr do not capture all available rentals. Local estate agents (mesitis), neighbourhood noticeboards, and expat Facebook groups are also good sources of apartments.
  • Get your AFM first: Your Greek tax identification number (AFM) is required to sign and register any rental contract. Apply at your local tax office (DOY) as soon as you arrive — it is the single most important administrative step before renting.
  • Budget four to six weeks for your search: The Athens rental market moves quickly for well-priced central apartments. Arrive with temporary accommodation booked and dedicate at least two weeks to in-person viewings before committing.
  • Use multiple search channels: Combine online platforms (Spitogatos.gr, Xe.gr, Tospitimou.gr) with local estate agents and expat community groups on Facebook.
  • Understand the three-year rule: Greek residential leases are legally treated as three-year contracts even if signed for a shorter period. Clarify early-termination conditions in writing before signing.
  • Inspect thoroughly and document everything: Before signing, photograph and list all existing damage. This protects your security deposit (typically 1–2 months' rent) when you leave.
  • Have the Greek contract reviewed: Only the Greek-language version of your lease is legally binding. If you do not read Greek, hire a bilingual lawyer or accountant to review it before you sign.
  • Factor in all costs: Add utilities (150–200 EUR/month), building maintenance fees (koinochristos, 30–80 EUR/month), and agent commission (typically one month's rent) to your total budget from the outset.
  • Consider the moratorium zones: As of January 2025, new short-term rental registrations are frozen in Kolonaki, Koukaki, Pangrati, and Exarchia. This may gradually improve long-term rental availability in these popular central neighbourhoods.

Finding a long-term rental in Athens as an expat involves navigating a local market that operates largely in Greek, with legal requirements — such as the AFM tax number, Taxisnet lease registration, and Greek-language contracts — that can be unfamiliar to newcomers. Remoters connects you with vetted local rental search specialists who know the Athens market, speak your language, and can guide you through every step: from shortlisting neighbourhoods and visiting apartments to reviewing your lease and completing the Taxisnet registration. Whether you are relocating to Kolonaki, Koukaki, Pangrati, or the northern suburbs, Remoters helps you find the right long-term rental in Athens efficiently and with confidence.

What our clients say

Elizabeth F.
William
★★★★★
Called Remoters in May 2025 to find an apartment in Athens, Greece. I was lucky to be helped and advised by William, a super efficient real estate agent, very available, with perfect knowledge of the area, and attentive. […]

Google · September 1, 2025 · translated from French · See the original review

Catherine M.
William
★★★★★
I used the Remoters platform to find a 3-bedroom apartment for a shared housing for my daughter for 3 months in May in Athens. I had a professional contact on site for this search. The search was […]

Google · September 1, 2025 · translated from French · See the original review

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First get your AFM, the Greek tax number, from AADE, online or in person with ID: without it, the lease cannot be registered.

The landlord then declares the contract on Taxisnet, and you must accept that declaration from your own account. A Greek bank account also makes it easier to pay rent by transfer, which landlords prefer.

On a small budget, look at Neos Kosmos, where a studio rents for around 450 EUR a month, or Kypseli and Metaxourgeio, working-class and gentrifying. Koukaki, near the Acropolis and the metro, offers a one-bedroom flat at around 700 EUR, and quiet Pangrati a two-bedroom flat for between 780 and 850 EUR.

Kolonaki is smart and expensive. For families, coastal Glyfada, with international schools, asks 1,100 to 1,700 EUR for two bedrooms.

Never pay any money before a written contract is signed, and use Spitogatos.gr, Xe.gr or Tospitimou.gr rather than Facebook groups, where scams are common. Photos can be misleading: have the home viewed before committing, and pay by transfer or against an official receipt.

From abroad, a Remoters home finder based in Athens can view it for you and send you photos or video, as set out in the quote.

Set aside the equivalent of 2 to 3 months' rent: a security deposit of one to two months, paid at signing, and the agency commission, of about one month's rent.

Each month, then add the building charges (koinochristos), often not included in the advertised rent, plus electricity, water and internet. Ask for the exact koinochristos amount before committing.