In Greece, the agent who shows you a property usually works for the seller. A buyer’s agent works under a written contract with you. The law allows one agent to act for both sides only if the contract says so, which is why the contract you sign matters more than the title on the business card.
Last checked: October 2026
At a glance
- A brokerage contract in Greece must be in writing. Signed emails count, according to TaxLaw, citing Law 4072/2012.
- The contract must state the fee and whether the agent may also represent the other party.
- Exclusive contracts can last up to 8 months, with a possible 4-month extension.
Listing agent: works for the seller
A listing agent has a contract with the seller to find a buyer. Their job is to get the sale done at a good price for their client. They can answer your questions and arrange viewings, but their duty runs to the seller.
If you buy through the seller’s agent, check in writing whether they will also charge you.
Buyer’s agent: works for you
A buyer’s agent has a contract with the buyer. Their work typically covers searching across agencies and private sellers, shortlisting, negotiating the price and coordinating the lawyer, engineer and notary. Because the fee and scope are set in your contract, you can see what you are paying for.
What the law says about the contract
Under Law 4072/2012, as summarised by TaxLaw:
- The brokerage contract must be in writing. Letters, faxes and emails signed by the parties satisfy this.
- It must include the parties’ details, the property or transaction, the fee (amount or percentage) and whether the agent may represent both parties.
- If the agent acts for the other side without that being allowed in the contract, the client may ask for the fee to be reduced or refunded.
- The client must tell the agent at least one day before the final contract is signed.
Exclusivity
An exclusive contract stops the client from using other agents for the same purpose. Under the law it can last up to 8 months, with an option to extend by 4. If a deal happens during the exclusive period, the agent is presumed to have brought it about. After the period ends, the agent is owed a fee only if they can show their work led to the deal and it closes within 3 months.
Before you sign an exclusive buyer’s contract, check the length, how you can end it and whether you would owe a fee on a property you find yourself.
Who can work as an agent
Agents must meet conditions set by law, including education and a clean record for offences such as fraud and forgery, according to the same TaxLaw summary. Ask any agent for their registration details before you sign.
Questions to ask any agent
- Whom do you represent in this deal, me, the seller or both?
- What is your fee, who pays it and is VAT included?
- Do you receive any payment from the seller or developer if I buy?
- Is the contract exclusive, for how long, and how can I end it?
- Which properties can you show me: only your own listings, or the wider market?
Frequently asked questions
Is a written contract with an agent required in Greece?
Yes. Law 4072/2012 requires the brokerage contract to be in writing; signed emails count.
Can one agent represent the buyer and the seller?
Only if the contract allows it. Otherwise the client can ask for the fee to be reduced or refunded.
How much do agents charge buyers?
The fee is agreed case by case. Law 4072/2012 requires the contract to state the fee, as an amount or a percentage, so agree it in writing before any viewing.
Do I have to sign an exclusive contract?
No. Exclusivity is a term you can accept or refuse. If you accept, the law caps it at 8 months plus a 4-month extension.
Does a buyer’s agent replace a lawyer?
No. Title and legal checks are a lawyer’s job, and building legality is checked by an engineer.
Related: the real cost of buying in Greece and how to buy property in Greece as a foreigner.
This article explains general rules. Confirm contract terms with a Greek lawyer before you sign.
