Welcome back to Greece… and CRETE.
After so much negative publicity and financial gloom, Greece – and the island of Crete in particular – is racing up the popularity ratings again and waiting to welcome you, whether you are just coming for a holiday or thinking about buying real estate in Crete, whether it is a property or plot of land upon which to construct your holiday or permanent home.
Tourism in general is set for a large increase in numbers, especially with new visitors from Russia, Israel and China. Some tour companies speak of record numbers of visitors to Greece. In Europe, Greece is the 4th most popular holiday destination. With a well-known budget airline now running year round flights from the UK and other European cities to Crete, as well as the seasonal charter flights, it has never been easier to travel to this wonderful country of Crete.
The increase in tourism usually leads to an increase in prospective buyers of real estate in Crete, as they fall in love with the country and realize its many positive points.
Crete represents an ideal country in which to purchase a property or to build. Crete continues to receive funds to improve roads and infrastructure. There are airports, ferry and cruise liner ports, marinas, hospitals, private clinics, bus connections throughout Crete, good telecommunication and Internet systems – in fact all the modern and everyday requirements can be met.
Known as the cradle of European Civilization, Crete is the most southern and largest of Greece’s islands with 1000 kms of coastline. It has something for everyone: historical and archaeological sites; fortresses and ruins; mountains and gorges; plateaux and ravines; walking, hiking, mountaineering and cycling routes; scuba diving, sailing, swimming and other water based sports and activities; romantic and quiet tavernas, international restaurants, lively clubs and bars; secluded bays and quiet beaches or busy organized beaches with facilities. Hotels range from the super luxurious and spa resorts and the all-inclusive to smaller family run hotels, villas, village retreats and budget hotels and pension rooms.
The Cretans are famed for their hospitable and welcoming nature. The crime rate is very low and people of all ages, race and religion can feel safe and comfortable.
Without heavy industry the sea and air are pollution free. Crete is also perfect for those interested in flaura, fauna, botany, painting, bird watching or those just wanting to relax and while away the days.
As the economy is improving, inflation and the cost of living in Crete are low.
Although Crete has always been a popular Greek island for those wanting a holiday or retirement home, Greece dropped out of the ratings during the crisis, when negative publicity was at its height. It is now back in the Top 10. In a recent PriceWaterhouse Coopers’ report it is noted that Athens has jumped from 27th to 13th in the rankings for new developments in European cities and this could lead to an improvement in Greek real estate generally throughout the country and Crete in particular.
Sadly, because of the global crisis, many Greek and non-Greek owners in Crete had to sell their Crete property quickly and at reduced prices, which lead to a large supply of properties available. Prices here in Crete dropped for all types of properties, in some cases up to 40%, which was good news for those seeking a bargain. Real estate prices today are at their lowest and so it is an ideal time to buy as with the upturn in the Greek economy, it is logical that prices for real estate will again rise, particularly in Crete, which is one of the most popular islands in Greece. National and international investors are back already searching for real estate opportunities. This is encouraging news.
Additionally, real estate purchase tax has dropped from 10% to 3% making buying real estate in Crete even cheaper.
Another important point is that the property in Crete and Greece is also open now for non-EU passport holders to buy and for properties with a value of over 250,000 Euros, they and their family members can take residence permits for 5 years.
So now the real estate market in Crete has opportunities for buyers from all countries and for all budgets. Crete is waiting for you………. where better to enjoy your holiday home in this beautiful country of Crete?
