Searching for a home can be exciting, but also full of pitfalls. Apart from the basics (square footage, price, neighborhood), there are details that many buyers and renters overlook. The real estate market in Athens and the suburbs is particularly large, and the research requires time and effort. That’s why here are 10 critical points that will help you make the best choice!

1. Noise Pollution and Noise

A beautiful street may seem ideal, but have you visited the area at night or early in the morning? Check if there are bars, busy avenues, or construction sites nearby, even a local market or schools. There may be exhibitions or seasonal festivals. According to research, noisy areas can reduce a property's value by up to 10%. In the suburbs, consider if the area is affected by airplanes or trains, something that can have a significant impact on your quality of life.
Example: A home next to the Electric Railway lines might turn out to be a very poor choice for someone disturbed by the noise. Therefore, choosing an apartment on a more interior street in the same area might be a much smarter choice.

2. Natural Light and Shading

Good sunlight reduces the need for artificial lighting and heating. Check if the home has sufficient light during the hours you need it most. A home with a western orientation will have sunlight in the afternoon, while a northern one may be cooler in the summer. Also, be cautious of apartment buildings that excessively shade the lower floors, as this can affect the energy efficiency of the property. Another factor to consider is the vegetation in the area as well as around the home.
Example: A working mother may need an apartment with ample natural light because she works remotely with a home office. She might choose an apartment with a southern orientation in a building that is not shaded by other buildings. Thus, her apartment is bright all day and creates a pleasant environment for her family.

3. Access to Public Transportation

In the center, proximity to the metro, buses, and trams is crucial. Research shows that properties near metro stops have up to 15% higher value. In the suburbs, check if there are transport connections linking the area to the center, especially if you do not own a car. In general, study the frequency of the routes, what alternative options exist, especially if your work depends on it. You might also consider combined solutions (metro-car, walking-metro, etc.). Also, consider any extra measures for traffic, studies on future traffic for the coming years, and the progress of related projects.
Example: If you are a student looking for an apartment near the university and with easy access to public transportation, the Zographou area might interest you. There are many student dorms and apartments for rent, as well as good connectivity.

4. Availability of Parking

If you own a car, parking can be an issue, especially in densely populated areas of Athens. In areas such as Kolonaki or Petralona, parking can be extremely difficult. You should consider whether there are garages or underground parking, as well as the cost. In the suburbs, check if the home has a parking space or if there is enough free space on the surrounding streets. For the safety of your vehicle, you must definitely know the risks of theft in whichever area you choose and what solutions are feasible for you.
Note: You should be equally cautious about your workplace or business location. The issue of parking can be time-consuming, costly, and mentally draining, so planning ahead is essential.

5. Infrastructure and Amenities

Are there supermarkets, schools, pharmacies, and parks nearby? In the suburbs, be aware if the area has basic infrastructure or if you will need frequent travel for daily needs. For example, in northern suburbs like Penteli, distances may be greater, while in southern suburbs such as Palaio Faliro, the infrastructure is more developed. If you are interested, you should find out if there are cultural events, sports facilities, green spaces. Or, if you are interested in starting a business in the area, assess its business/working environment.
Example: If you are a young family with two children looking for a quiet environment for your kids to grow up in, the northern suburbs, such as Nea Filadelfeia or Nea Ionia, might be ideal for you. These areas offer parks, playgrounds, and schools, while maintaining a calm atmosphere. Or if you are a professional looking for a modern apartment in the center of Athens, then areas such as Metaxourgeio or Gazi might catch your attention. These areas have been revitalized in recent years and offer a variety of bars, restaurants, and cultural activities. You can see more about real estate purchase opportunities in the area.

6. Quality of Construction

Do not judge a home solely by its appearance. Check the condition of the plumbing, electrical systems, and insulation. The age of the building and the renovations that have been done (or not done) are critical points. The construction materials also play a role. About 60% of properties in Athens were built before 1980, which means they may have outdated installations. In the suburbs, especially in single-family homes, check if there are issues with damp or thermal insulation. In apartment buildings, check how well the building and the common areas are maintained up to date....
Note: If you are particularly demanding regarding construction quality, you might prefer a newly built apartment in a modern building.

7. Social Profile of the Area

The composition of the residents affects your daily life. In some areas, families dominate, while in others there are students or workers. In the southern suburbs, such as Glyfada, there is a greater concentration of young professionals, while in the western suburbs, like Peristeri, there are more family residences. Find out more about our services.
Example: If you are a young couple wanting to move to an area with a vibrant nightlife, you can choose an apartment in Gazi, as the area is known for its bars and restaurants.

8. Safety

Talk to locals, check statistics on crime, and see if there is adequate lighting on the streets and in common areas, even cameras. Observe the location of the property and see how you feel there. A secluded home, however beautiful and functional it may be, might not inspire a sense of security in someone. The same goes for a busy area in the center. According to data, areas such as Kolonaki and Kifisia are considered safer, while others, such as Exarchia, may have more incidents of petty crime. That’s why it is advisable to find out what the local policing is like (its presence and how effective it is).
Note: If safety is your top priority, you can look for apartments in gated communities with intercom systems and security cameras.

Contact us for more information regarding home purchase.

9. Future Development of the Area

A quiet suburb today may change in the coming years due to new projects or developments. There may be changes due to increased foot traffic: better commercial opportunities, but fewer parking spaces, a noisier environment. On the other hand, your property there might gain value. For example, the extension of Metro Line 4 is expected to positively affect the real estate market in areas such as Galatsi and Kypseli. Also, take into account:

• Traffic calming plans: Are there plans for changes in land use or the area's infrastructure?

• Investments: Are there planned investments in the area?

• Environmental impacts: What are the environmental impacts of the development projects?

Example: If you want to invest in a property that will increase in value in the future, you can choose an area that is in a phase of development, such as the Elliniko area. Or you can buy in areas close to tourist attractions or universities.

10. Actual Cost of Living

Apart from the rent or purchase price, consider the taxes, communal charges, heating costs, and municipal fees. For example, in areas with older apartment buildings, the heating cost may be high. Also, municipal fees in northern municipalities are generally higher than in the western suburbs. Consider the cost of maintenance or future renovations.

Additional suggestions:

• Visit the area at different times of the day and on different days of the week.

• Talk to locals and real estate agents.

• Check the websites of the municipalities and regions.

• Consult a specialist, such as an engineer or lawyer.

Why Trust IRG PRO?

Many wonder if working with a real estate agency is necessary. We say that buying or renting a property is an important decision, and we believe that collaborating with a reliable agency is truly beneficial. At IRG PRO, we specialize in real estate in Athens and its suburbs, specifically the areas with the most activity and in which our clients are most interested: the Northern Suburbs (Kifisia, Ekali, Marousi, Chalandri, N. Psychiko, etc.), the Southern Suburbs (P. Faliro, N. Smyrna, Kallithea, Glyfada, Voula, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza, Lagonisi, Sarandida) and Central Athens (Kolonaki, Historic Center, Syntagma, Pangrati, Koukaki, Ampelokipoi). The extensive database we possess offers options suitable for every need and budget. With expertise and experience in handling every case, we guarantee a transparent, professional, and completely honest collaboration.

If you are looking for the ideal home and want to make the right choice without stress and pitfalls, contact us today!
Call us: +30 210 36 39 934
Send an email: info@irgpro.com
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Find the home of your dreams with IRG PRO – because the right property makes all the difference!