GG Magazine 3/24 EN

THE FINEST REAL ESTATE IN GREECE

A safe haven to dive into with all your senses, Greece welcomes you for yet another season – or maybe even forever.

No. 3/24

mong all peoples, the Greeks have dreamt life’s dream most beautifully, Goethe once wrote. And it may well take a lifetime for someone to discover Greece, but only an instant to fall deeply in love with her. An eternal muse, she has inspired the arts, creativity, philosophy and architecture in ways hard to capture in words. So much so that I agree with Cicero: if the gods could speak they would use the language of the Greeks.

Just as Alpha and Omega, every beginning and every end – of all things – was first manifested here. In that spirit, C is for the Cyclades: a group of islands surrounding Ancient Delos, with unique architecture in white and blue, and barren landscapes dotted with isolated chapels. Just as D is for the Dodecanese: picturesque scenic villages, steep rocky shores, pine groves, medieval castles and monasteries, and home to the sea sponge harvesters. H is for Halkidiki: the birthplace of Aristotle, shaped like Poseidon’s trident, where lush green forests extend all the way to the beachfront, with long stretches of beautiful, ever-changing shoreline. P is reserved for the peninsula at the southern tip of the mainland, Peloponnese: valley of the gods, rich in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with alluring castles set amidst stunning mountains and forests, rivers and caves, and home of the greatest myths and stories ever told. All soaked in saltwater, sunshine and history. It is with great pleasure that I invite you to browse the following pages and discover not only the beauty of the land I feel honoured to call home, but also some of the most exquisite properties imaginable. A safe haven to dive into with all your senses, she welcomes you for yet another season, or maybe even forever. I t certainly doesn’t take a philosopher to conclude that we are all, one way or another, children of the same motherland. Citizens of the world, welcome home!

Kind regards, Georg Petras

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PUBLISHER EV MMC GREECE S.A., ATHENS TOWER, 2-4 MESOGEION AVENUE, ATHENS 11527, TEL: +30 21 11 05 50 15, GEORG PETRAS, GEORG.PETRAS@ENGELVOELKERS.COM, LICENCE PARTNER OF ENGEL & VÖLKERS RESIDENTIAL GMBH /// COORDINATION INKEN BECKER, INKEN.BECKER@GG-MAGAZINE.COM, PETROS AGGOS, PETROS.AGGOS@ENGELVOELKERS.COM /// ART DIRECTOR CAROLIN MARCHIORI, CAROMARC@MAC.COM /// GRAPHIC DESIGN ANNA GEHRMANN-PHILIPPI, ANNA.GEHRMANN-PHILIPPI@GG-MAGAZINE.COM /// EDITING DOYA KAROLINI, DKAROLINI@GMAIL.COM /// TRANSLATION ROBERT SMALES /// PROOFREADING ROBERT SMALES /// PRE-PRESS BERTHEAU DRUCK GMBH, MARIE-CURIE-STR.10, D-24537 NEUMÜNSTER /// PRINTING KPC-NY DBA DUAL PRINT AND MAIL, 340 NAGEL DRIVE, CHEEKTOWAGA, NY, 14225, TEL. +1 71 66 84 38 25

Paros

Serene Escape Next to Pounda Beach

Cyclades Islands, Greece

Price EUR 1 mill.

Interior approx. 182 m²

Land approx. 3,500 m²

E&V ID W-02U7BN

Breathless Dive

Join us on a voyage over the following pages where the sea salt breeze will tease your senses, just as the sun rays tease your skin: with an overwhelming sense of entering perfectly photoshopped images of white and blue architecture and old paintings of traditional village scenes in indigo, ochre, terracotta, green and endless blue in every possible shade. Where you will be introduced to what could become your new home. Where your heart will finally break free.

Like the Greek flag, dancing back and forth in the strong winds, the colours of the Cycladic Islands are blue and white – and they come in all shapes and sizes. The name “Cyclades” refers to the islands forming a circle around the sacred island of Delos. According to mythology, Poseidon, God of the Sea, was furious at the Cyclades nymphs and turned them into islands. Absolutely ideal for island hoping (with cosmopolitan Mykonos, Paros and Santorini considered classics with their barren landscapes, isolated crisp white churches and windmills, and epic restaurant scene) and with a long maritime tradition (Andros), they can turn into a lifetime experience of their own. Simply imagine watching the sunset overlooking “Le Grand Bleu” (Amorgos), next to the remarkable beauty of mysterious rock formations and coves (Milos) formed by volcanic activity. Legend has it that one of them once emerged from the bottom of the Aegean Sea to give shelter to the Argonauts (Anafi). Imagine what they could do for you.

A cluster of twelve large and a string of smaller islands, the jewels that light up the Aegean: that is the Dodecanese, the sunniest corner of Greece, bridging forever east and west. Among them, endlessly mystical Patmos – globally known for its religious legacy, as it is the place where John the Evangelist wrote the Book of Revelation. Then there is the wildly beautiful Karpathos, the island of the Titans, the previous generation of gods, whom the Olympians had to overthrow and banish from the upper world. How could one not instantly fall for Rhodes and her fortified medieval old town and castles (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), where one can almost feel the presence of knights, or the little coves, such as Ladiko (where the Guns of Navarone were filmed in 1961) and the Valley of the Butterflies, a peaceful forest inhabited by thousands of Panaxia Quadripunctaria butterflies. And how could one not feel overwhelmed enter-

ing the port of Symi, a myriad of two and three-storey traditional stone houses, painted in all colours but predominantly in indigo, ochre and terracotta.

Far up in the north, shaped like Poseidon’s trident, Halkidiki’s prongs jut out into the Aegean Sea. Lush green forests (of pine, oak, fir and chestnut) extend all the way to the beachfront, where reflections of golden sunlight add sparkling hues to turquoise waters. This fascinating canvas of blue and green is the birthplace of Aristotle – and a peninsula actually divided into three parts: the cosmopolitan Kassandra, the picturesque and wild Sithonia, and Mount Athos (a unique Orthodox monastic state inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List).

Surrounded by sea on all sides, the Peloponnese peninsula is quite literally the stuff of legends. It is here that gods walked the earth, meddling in mortal affairs. Locals claim to have the best of everything to give. And that’s no myth. The village of Limeni and the breathtaking medieval castles of Monemvasia and Nafplion are among the most romantic destinations in Greece and a real treat for architecture aficionados (imagine mystical stone built settlements nestled at the edge of big rocks by the sea). And, of course, there is the sacred place of Ancient Sparta, home of the holy olive grove and birthplace of the Olympic Games. Right across, there are the islands of Spetses and Hydra: cosmopolitan islands covered with well-preserved mansions and manor houses forever favoured by jetsetters.

Whether it be a seafront villa on Mykonos, a historic house on Limeni, a captain’s cottage on Rhodes or a sea view mansion in Halkidiki, buying a holiday property in Greece has always been a thoroughly clever choice. Easy access, a solid infrastructure, a healthy climate, incredible scenery and a richly diverse culture make this corner of the earth the ideal location for an overseas property of your dreams.

Soaking up the breathtaking views of Caldera in Santorini and Little Venice in Mykonos. Strolling through the narrow streets (freckled with colorful flowers) of Paros. Enjoying the small idyllic coves and turquoise waters of Halkidiki. (as seen clockwise).

Unstoppable Force

Last summer, we welcomed her as acting Minister of Tourism. Ioanna Dretta had already won everyone‘s trust though, as CEO and now President of the Board of Directors of Marketing Greece. In short, as the woman who helped the country ascend to the top of global destination rankings.

A Harvard graduate with a Master’s degree in Public Administration, she took over the reins of Marketing Greece (an initiative of the Greek Tourism Confederation and the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels) in the summer of 2017. In fact, it was Ioanna Dretta (along with Steve Vranakis) who was entrusted by the Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, to put Greek tourism firmly back on the map.

She believes passionately that “the only viable path for the future is a transition from spontaneous development to development with a clear goal and a specific plan”.

The parameters for this transition are twofold. Essential collaboration between central government, local government, and the private sector. And then, of course, know-how. The Association of the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE) has submitted a clear and complete proposal for the development of tourism over the coming years across the country. The plan has been presented extensively to both central and local government, and been put to the public debate. Now the government needs to set the axes, to set the priorities and lead the sector to the next very competitive and demanding phase – with clear strategic targeting and active policies based on an agreed plan.

Her favourite motto is “trust the process”. The ability to have confidence in what time will bring with patience and perseverance. Confirming in practice that hard work as a team is always rewarded, since Marketing Greece continues to make progress in leaps and bounds every year – against the odds, as a close and tight group of just 20 people fighting every day for the image of the country. After all, its main message revolves around the need for synergies and know-how.

“Nothing can be achieved in tourism without a partnership of forces, without collaborations, without a synthesis of different opinions and needs,” she adds. It is this belief in the value of alliances and synergies that sees Marketing Greece work with des-tinations and organisations throughout Greece, both in the public and private sectors, and from within tourism and the wider market. Discovergreece.com is the innovative online consumer platform, forming the strategic backbone of all promotional campaigns. Having now built up a loyal audience, it allows the team to engage with multiple target audiences, promoting the full breadth of the Greek tourism product through an impressive wealth of high-quality experiential content. “The modern traveller not only desires, but seeks to experience 100% of what a destination offers through emotions. It is a way to connect with the local element. The visitor becomes an explorer and participates in experiences that awaken their senses. At Marketing Greece, we strive to strengthen the Greece brand through our actions and initiatives. We go about this by joining forces with everyone, by focusing on experiential tourism, and highlighting what makes Greece different, by evolving and upgrading our available tools and, of course, by sharing our knowledge and expertise,” she adds emphatically.

What will be the challenges but also the opportunities for tourism in the future?

Sustainability is the biggest challenge. But at the same time it is also an opportunity, both for businesses and the state. The state has many obligations related to public infrastructure. At the same time, we must keep in mind that when we say “sustainability”, we do not only mean the environment – in the context of holistic sustainability, we must also respect society, the local colours. So, if sustainability is a general “umbrella” of a concept that is specialized with the words “authenticity” and “human”, then the news is very good for us in Greece, because we have the opportunity to invest around these elements, where studies show that we are better than our competition.

How is the country evaluated abroad now?

Greece currently ranks at the top of all travel lists for all traditional markets (Europe and America). Globally, it is the 5th strongest tourist brand in the world, in the “sun and sea” category it is ranked the 3rd world power and concerning marine tourism the 8th. Since 2020, Greece has been on a wave of positive communication, which is reflected in the high demand. As far as the campaigns are concerned, I will schematically say that it is necessary to dive into the identity of each destination. There are opportunities to build on a logic of sustainable development.

What is the biggest challenge behind each subsequent campaign, with a country that breaks tourist records every year?

The product duo “sun and sea” has been and will always remain the strongest product we have as a country. In no way should it be removed from our overall image as a tourist destination. Our task is to build the accompanying experiences around it. So it is not a question of choice but of evolution in what we offer our visitors. The challenge is to improve demand characteristics, better temporal and geographical distribution and higher spending per tour-ist. And, of course, to create a tourism model governed by the principles of sustainable development. There is a mechanism in tourism campaigns, which is precisely related to the fact that tourism is a value chain. Our campaigns may be aimed mainly at the international community, but they also work internally, as a basis for public discussion around tourism trends, product composition, changes we need to make to our product. So they have a dual function. Everyone must realize that the appreciation of products and services is in direct proportion to the improvement of their quality, as well as the quality of the destinations and the infrastructures that welcome the huge flows. The relentless international competition will not allow us the slightest complacency.

Unlocking Opportunities: Greece’s Path to Sustainable Economic Growth

Nothing is more important than determination – because it’s the persistence and courage to persevere that ultimately leads to success. This is the time to press on, attract investment, create jobs, and drive sustainable economic growth for future generations.

TEXT: Nikolaos Bakatselos, President of the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce

A quote that resonates deeply with me is the following by Barack Obama: “The future rewards those who press on. I don’t have time to feel sorry for myself. I don’t have time to complain. I’m going to press on.” These words underscore the importance of perseverance and resilience in facing challenges, and emphasizing the need to maintain forward momentum despite obstacles. They encapsulate the determination needed to acknowledge that setbacks are a part of the journey but that it is the persistence and courage to persevere that ultimately leads to success.

Greece has weathered its fair share of economic storms in recent years, grappling with austerity measures, debt crises, and political instability. However, amidst these challenges, there are signs of resilience and renewal. The Greek economy is now showing clear and steady signs of recovery, with GDP growth returning to positive territory and fiscal reforms yielding results.

With its strategic location, rich cultural heritage, and diverse economic sectors, Greece positions itself as an attractive destination for even more foreign direct investments and further business expansion. It is quite clear that, as the economic landscape of Greece continues to evolve, it presents a tableau of challenges and opportunities for investors and businesses alike.

One sector that has been gaining traction among investors, especially from the United States, is the real estate market in Greece. With its picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and affordable property prices, Greece offers a compelling opportunity for American investors seeking to diversify their portfolios internationally. Whether it’s investing in vacation homes on the Greek islands, luxury properties along the Athenian Riviera, or commercial real estate in bustling city centres, Greece provides a range of options to suit various investment preferences.

To this end, recent legislative reforms aimed at streamlining the process of property acquisition and improving transparency in the real estate sector have further enhanced the investment appeal of Greece. The Greek government’s initiatives to attract foreign investment, coupled with the country’s Golden Visa program offering residency permits to non-EU investors purchasing property worth a certain threshold, have contributed to a surge in interest from international buyers, including those from the United States.

Further boosting its investment potential, the Greek real estate market offers opportunities for developers and construction com-

panies to participate in infrastructure projects and urban redevelopment initiatives. With urbanization trends driving demand for modern housing, commercial spaces, and mixed-use developments, there is ample room for collaboration between Greek and American firms to contribute to the country’s urban revitalization efforts.

Greece also excels in the luxury real estate segment. The allure of owning a villa overlooking the Aegean Sea or a historic mansion nestled in the hills of mainland Greece has attracted affluent buyers from around the world, including discerning investors from the United States. With its unmatched natural beauty, cultural heritage, and high-quality lifestyle offerings, Greece’s luxury real estate market presents an exclusive opportunity for American investors seeking prestige and value.

It is also worth noting that Greece’s Citizenship by Investment program, which grants Greek citizenship to individuals making significant investments in the country, including real estate acquisitions, presents an attractive pathway for American investors looking to gain access to the European Union market and enjoy the benefits of EU citizenship.

By promoting the unique advantages of investing in Greek real estate, such as favourable pricing, lifestyle benefits, and investment incentives, the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce aims to foster greater collaboration and investment flows between Greece and the United States. Through targeted marketing initiatives, investment forums, and business matchmaking events, the Chamber facilitates connections between American investors and Greek real estate developers, brokers, and industry stakeholders.

In essence, the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce serves as a bridge between the Greek real estate market and US-based investors, facilitating opportunities for mutual growth and prosperity. By leveraging its extensive network, market insights, and advocacy efforts, the Chamber plays a pivotal role in promoting Greece as a prime destination for real estate investment, thereby contributing to the country’s economic development and global competitiveness.

For a while now we have been saying that Greece stands at a crossroads, poised to capitalize on its strengths and overcome its challenges. This is the time to truly leverage our natural assets, embrace innovation, and foster a conducive business environment. This is the time to press on, to attract investment, create jobs, and drive sustainable economic growth for future generations.

Paros

Luxury Villa with Views & Amenities

Cyclades Islands, Greece

Price EUR 2.5 mill.

Interior approx. 233 m²

Land approx. 2,718 m²

E&V ID W-02UYK0

Antiparos

House with Unique View of the Sea & Island of Despotiko

Cyclades Islands, Greece

Price EUR 890,000

Interior approx. 138 m²

Tel. +30 22 84 20 04 00

E-mail cyclades@engelvoelkers.com

Land approx. 325 m²

E&V ID W-02TGUL

Mykonos

Cycladic Villa with Stunning Views

Cyclades Islands, Greece

Price EUR 3.9 mill.

Interior approx. 530 m²

Land approx. 4,300 m²

E&V ID W-02T3FN

Tel.

Price EUR 690,000

Interior approx. 193 m²

Land approx. 4,315 m²

E&V ID W-02TT3H

Cyclades Islands, Greece

Price EUR 650,000

Interior approx. 180 m²

Land approx. 663 m²

E&V ID W-02TA28

Beautiful Villa Right on Pefkos Beach

Dodecanese Islands, Greece

Price EUR 1.35 mill.

Interior approx. 241 m²

Land approx. 4,000 m² E&V ID W-02975C

Dodecanese

Mediterranean Villa Facing out to Sea

Dodecanese Islands, Greece

Price EUR 1.75 mill.

Interior approx. 200 m²

Land approx. 4,000 m²

E&V ID W-02TV57

Rhodes

Villa with Blue Aegean Horizon

Dodecanese Islands, Greece

Price EUR 590,000

Interior approx. 116 m²

Land approx. 832 m²

E&V ID W-02UJ1G

The Old Oak Stone House

Exceptional Grandeur in Symi Harbour

Porto Cheli

Incredibly Imposing Resort-Style Residence

Peloponnese, Greece

Price EUR 2.65 mill.

Interior approx. 425 m²

Tel. +30 21 11 05 50 00 E-mail athensmmc@engelvoelkers.com

Land approx. 2,350 m²

E&V ID W-02STQD

Peloponnese, Greece

Price EUR 2.45 mill.

Interior approx. 410 m²

Land approx. 950 m²

E&V ID W-02SK7O

Porto Cheli Villa with Amazing Sea View

Tel. +30 21 11 05 50 00 E-mail athensmmc@engelvoelkers.com

Land approx. 700 m²

E&V ID W-02SE9D

Chalkidiki

Secluded Paradise

ENGEL & VÖLKERS Thessaloniki MMC (GR)

Tel. +30 23 12 31 65 00

E-mail thessalonikimmc@engelvoelkers.com

Thessaloniki, Greece Price EUR 4.5 mill.

Interior approx. 820 m²

Land approx. 4,090 m² E&V ID W-02SB4K

Thessaloniki, Greece

Price EUR 4 mill.

Interior approx. 395 m²

Land approx. 4,040 m²

E&V ID W-02TOUM

Chalkidiki Villa with a Unique Aesthetic

Chalkidiki

Unmatched Luxury in Pefkochori

ENGEL & VÖLKERS Thessaloniki MMC (GR)

Tel. +30 23 12 31 65 00

E-mail thessalonikimmc@engelvoelkers.com

Thessaloniki, Greece

Price EUR 1.9 mill.

Interior approx. 220 m²

Land approx. 2,000 m²

E&V ID W-02U6AT

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