Estimate renovation costs for a Greek apartment or house in 2025. Covers full refurbishment, kitchen, bathroom, flooring, and energy upgrades with 24% VAT.
Enter the property area and renovation scope to estimate total renovation costs in Greece, including 24% VAT on all contractor services.
Total estimated renovation cost
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Renovation cost (excl. energy)
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Energy upgrades
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Exoikonomo grant (50%)
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Cost per m2
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Your breakdown
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How renovation costs work in Greece
Renovation costs in Greece vary by region, with Athens and island work generally more expensive than mainland provincial areas due to labour availability and logistics. All contractor services are subject to 24% VAT (FPA), which is included in the per-square-metre rates shown above. Property owners pursuing energy efficiency improvements can apply for Exoikonomo grants through the Ministry of Environment, which can substantially reduce the out-of-pocket cost of insulation, window replacement, and heating system upgrades.
Example calculation
An 80 m2 apartment undergoing a mid-range renovation at 450 EUR/m2 costs 36,000 EUR. Adding standard energy upgrades (insulation and windows) of 12,000 EUR brings the total to 48,000 EUR. If the owner qualifies for a 50% Exoikonomo grant on the 12,000 EUR energy works, the grant covers 6,000 EUR, reducing the net cost to 42,000 EUR. Cost per m2 net of grant: 525 EUR/m2.
Tips and considerations
Always get a formal invoice (apodiksi) from contractors to prove renovation expenditure. Documented renovation costs can be used to demonstrate value-added in a future property sale, supporting a higher sale price negotiation. Renovations that improve the energy certificate from Class D to Class B or A significantly increase both rental income potential and sale value in the current Greek market. Check the current Exoikonomo program cycle status before planning works, as the program runs in tranches with limited total budget.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to renovate an apartment in Greece in 2025?
A full renovation of a Greek apartment in 2025 typically costs between 400 and 900 EUR per square metre, depending on finish quality, materials chosen, and whether structural work is involved. A basic refresh of a 70 m2 apartment (plasterwork, painting, basic flooring, and bathroom fixtures) can be done for 28,000-40,000 EUR. A mid-range full renovation to a modern standard runs 50,000-80,000 EUR for the same size. A high-end renovation with premium imported materials and custom joinery can exceed 120,000 EUR. These estimates include 24% VAT.
Do I need a building permit to renovate a property in Greece?
The requirement for a building permit depends on the scope of work. Cosmetic renovations (painting, floor replacement, minor plumbing, kitchen unit replacement) do not require a permit. Structural changes, extensions, new windows or doors that alter the building envelope, changes to load-bearing walls, and bathroom or kitchen relocations typically require a small-scale works permit (Egkrisi Ergasion Mikris Klimakos) obtained from the local planning authority (dimos). Major structural renovations or extensions require full building permits submitted through a licensed engineer. Unlicensed construction work creates legal liability that can complicate future sales.
What is the Exoikonomo energy renovation grant and how much can I claim?
The Exoikonomo (Home Saving program) is a Greek government subsidy for energy efficiency renovations of residential properties. It provides grants covering 40-65% of eligible renovation costs (insulation, double glazing, heat pumps, solar systems) up to a maximum subsidy amount that varies by income tier. Low-income households can receive up to 65% of eligible costs subsidised, while higher-income households receive 40%. The program requires a pre-renovation energy certificate (PEA Class D or below) and a post-renovation PEA showing at least a Class C improvement. Applications are made through the program website and processing times have historically been several months.
How do I find a reliable contractor for renovations in Greece?
Finding reliable contractors in Greece requires due diligence. Ask for recommendations from recent clients and verify the contractor has a valid TEBE (craft business registration) or is registered as a company. Request itemised written quotes from at least three contractors. Check whether the contractor is VAT-registered (they should issue a proper invoice with their AFM), which is important for your own accounting if the renovation is for a rental property. Avoid all-cash arrangements that forgo invoicing, as this leaves you with no recourse if work quality is poor and exposes you to legal risk. A written contract specifying scope, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty is essential.