Real estate investing is not only a proven way to build wealth but also offers significant tax benefits that can enhance overall returns. In Greece and across Europe, investors can take advantage of various tax incentives designed to stimulate property investments. These benefits apply to traditional property ownership and extend to modern investment models such as real estate crowdfunding, including opportunities offered by platforms like Ovolus.
(All data and policies mentioned are accurate up to date and may change in the future.)
Tax Benefits of Real Estate Investing in Greece
Greece has developed a real estate-friendly tax environment, especially in recent years, to encourage both local and foreign investments. While tax rates and regulations may evolve, the general benefits include:
- Reduced Property Transfer Taxes: Greece has introduced lower transfer tax rates to encourage real estate transactions and boost the market.
- Tax Incentives for Renovations: Renovating or upgrading properties can come with deductions or reduced VAT on specific works, making property improvement more cost-effective.
- No Annual Property Tax for Small Investors in Crowdfunding: When investing via a platform like Ovolus, you don’t directly own the physical property but shares in a project. This means you avoid certain property-related taxes that individual property owners pay.
- Golden Visa Incentives: Real estate investments over a certain threshold can qualify for residency programs (though thresholds vary over time).
European Tax Benefits
Across Europe, real estate investments also enjoy tax incentives, though they differ by country. Some general benefits include:
- Tax Deductions on Rental Income: In many EU countries, investors can deduct expenses such as property maintenance, management fees, or insurance costs from taxable rental income.
- Capital Gains Exemptions for Long-Term Holding: Several European markets reward long-term property ownership with reduced or even zero capital gains tax after a certain holding period.
- Crowdfunding Advantages: Since crowdfunding typically involves investing in shares or debt instruments rather than direct property ownership, investors are often subject to simpler taxation rules, which may include withholding tax on returns but not ongoing property taxes.
Crowdfunding Returns and Taxation with Ovolus
One of the main benefits of real estate crowdfunding through Ovolus is the streamlined tax process. Investors typically receive returns in the form of dividends or interest, which are taxed in a straightforward way without the additional complications of property management, transfer taxes, or maintenance costs.
Why this is attractive:
- Investors enjoy a hands-off approach while still benefiting from real estate returns.
- Ovolus selects and manages premium real estate and hospitality projects, ensuring that investors have access to high-quality opportunities without the typical tax burdens of direct ownership.
- Diversification is easier and cost-effective, since you can invest in multiple projects with smaller amounts, rather than owning one property with all the related taxes and expenses.
How Tax Benefits Enhance Overall Returns
Real estate investments can generate steady rental income, capital appreciation, and tax-advantaged cash flows. When combined with crowdfunding returns, which are distributed without the need for direct property involvement, investors can enjoy attractive net yields. Ovolus ensures full transparency on tax obligations, making it easier for investors to understand their expected returns.
Invest with confidence in real estate
Discover our real estate investing opportunities designed to deliver long-term growth and stability. For a clear overview of our investment process, visit how it works, and explore our FAQ for answers to the most common investor questions. With transparency at every step, we aim to provide the knowledge and confidence you need to make strategic investment decisions.
FAQs
- What is the minimum amount I need to start investing in real estate?
You can start with as little as €100–€500 through platforms like crowdfunding or fractional ownership. REITs and ETFs are even more accessible, since you can buy a single share for the price of a stock. The actual minimum depends on the investment type, but the key is that you don’t need tens of thousands to get started.
- Is investing small amounts in real estate really profitable?
Yes—though your returns will scale with your investment. Even small amounts can generate dividends (REITs), rental income shares (fractional ownership), or long-term appreciation (crowdfunded projects). The main benefit is learning how real estate works while compounding small gains into larger investments over time.
- What risks should I be aware of when investing with little money?
Low-cost real estate investments are more accessible, but not risk-free. Key risks include:
- Market risk: REITs and ETFs can lose value in downturns.
- Platform risk: Crowdfunding and tokenized property depend on the reliability of the platform.
- Liquidity risk: Some investments can’t be easily sold. The safest approach is diversification—spread small amounts across multiple projects and asset types.
- Can I invest in real estate with little money if I live outside the EU?
In most cases, yes. Many crowdfunding and fractional ownership platforms are open to international investors. REITs and ETFs are traded on global stock exchanges, making them accessible worldwide. However, always check platform restrictions and your local tax laws before investing across borders. - How do I decide between crowdfunding, REITs, and fractional ownership?
It depends on your goals:
- REITs/ETFs: Best for liquidity and passive income.
- Crowdfunding: Best for learning, project involvement, and mid-term returns.
- Fractional ownership: Best for long-term exposure to specific properties. If you’re starting out, consider testing each with a small amount and scaling up where you feel most comfortable.