Athens is undoubtedly the hub for property investment by Greek immigration applicants. Given its significant advantage as the capital, combined with the convenience of transportation and daily life, the city has consistently been a popular region for real estate sales. However, some applicants for Greek immigration choose to purchase property in other parts of the country, such as the highly sought-after island of Crete. This island is famous for its comfortable climate, charming cultural heritage, and beautiful scenery, which is why it is favored by many applicants for Greek property investment immigration.
I. Why do Greek immigration applicants favor Crete so much?
Crete is located at the southernmost tip of Greece and is the country's largest island. It has long been loved by tourists and overseas investors. The climate here is one of the mildest and healthiest in Europe, with short, mild winters where temperatures rarely drop below 13 degrees Celsius. People living on the island can not only enjoy the beaches and the sea to their heart's content but also have plenty of opportunities to explore the various historical sites on the island. Another feature of Crete is that it is home to many expatriates from all over the world, especially in the northern region. Furthermore, the island has remained largely unaffected by the economic downturn, and its tourism industry has maintained a state of extreme prosperity from beginning to end. A significant number of Greek immigration applicants are also extremely fond of this island, and properties on the island are highly sought after by investors.
II. Where can Greek immigration applicants choose to purchase property in Crete?
Crete is generally divided into four main regions: Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, and Lasithi. Crete boasts ancient ruins and unspoiled natural landscapes; regardless of anything else, the natural scenery of this island is extremely beautiful. So, what are the advantages of each of these regions in Crete?
Heraklion
Heraklion is the largest region on Crete and the location of its administrative center. It is a very popular tourist destination, and there is no shortage of investors and Greek property investment immigration applicants coming here to purchase property; rental income from properties in this area can also be very high. The Heraklion region also has an airport, making transportation relatively convenient, so property prices are not low; it is common for some luxury villas to exceed one million in price. The beaches, bays, and numerous ancient palaces and churches in this region also add some ancient character.
Chania
This region has the highest vegetation coverage on Crete, making it the most visibly green area, and it receives significantly more rainfall than other parts. In this area, one can easily see the White Mountains, cypress forests, and dazzling Cretan vegetation. It is also home to the world-famous Samaria Gorge, the longest in Europe, which is 18 kilometers long and usually takes six to seven hours to hike. In the gorge, one can see ancient churches and renovated Cretan houses. Property prices here are quite varied, ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions, making it suitable for Greek immigration applicants to purchase.
Rethymno
This region is composed of several other towns. The most attractive aspects of this area are its magnificent scenery, beautiful mountains, long beaches, and traditional Greek-style villages. There is a breathtaking 16-kilometer-long beach in the north of the region, which is extremely popular. The architecture in the Rethymno region has distinct Venetian characteristics and features, and many historical buildings are quite unique. Property prices in this region are not high, and Greek immigration applicants may want to focus on this area.
Lasithi
Lasithi is famous for its fertile land and wide beaches. The most popular spots in this region include the famous Finikodassos beach and the largest bay in Crete, Mirabello Bay. The administrative center of Lasithi is Agios Nikolaos, which is marked by Lake Voulismeni, the place where, according to ancient legend, the goddess Athena bathed. This region is very popular among royalty and celebrities. The properties here are the most luxurious and unique on the island, surrounded by expensive hotels, golf courses, yacht clubs, and exclusive boutiques.
For Greek immigration applicants, the different regions of Crete not only have different environments and facilities but also varying property prices. As long as they do their homework, applicants for Greek immigration will certainly be able to purchase a property that suits them locally.