Finding a House to Rent in Thessaloniki Greece

Finding a suitable rental home in Thessaloniki can be both exciting and frustrating. While the city offers a variety of housing options, prospective tenants often encounter serious challenges such as properties in need of major repairs, landlords expecting tenants to renovate at their own expense, unresponsive brokers, and excessive upfront payment demands.

After spending over five months searching for a home, I personally encountered all of these issues before finally securing a place to live. This post is based on my real-life experiences. Additionally, I was also considering buying a house, but after evaluating the current market conditions, I realized that this is not the right time to buy. Prices are high, and the market does not favor buyers at the moment.

Understanding Rental Prices in Thessaloniki

Rental prices in Thessaloniki vary based on location, size, and condition of the property. In central areas, a one-bedroom apartment typically costs between €400 and €500 per month, depending on factors like the building’s age, heating type, and amenities such as air conditioning. Properties in the city’s center may command a slight premium, while those in the western suburbs tend to be more affordable.

Challenges in the Rental Market

1. Properties Requiring Repairs

Many rental properties are in poor condition, requiring tenants to invest in renovations before moving in. Common issues include broken plumbing, outdated electrical systems, mold, and malfunctioning heating. Some landlords refuse to make repairs, expecting tenants to fix everything while still paying high rent.

2. Landlords Seeking Tenant-Funded Renovations

A recurring problem is landlords who look for tenants willing to invest in property refurbishments at their own cost. These landlords still charge high rents, without offering any deductions or guarantees that the tenant can stay long enough to benefit from the investment.

3. Unresponsive and Dishonest Brokers

Some real estate agents fail to return calls, provide misleading information, or pressure tenants into quick decisions. A common tactic is to claim that other prospective tenants are waiting in line, creating unnecessary urgency. Despite their lack of effort, these brokers still demand a commission, which is usually one month’s rent. However, you can also skip the broker entirely and deal directly with landlords, since brokers often do little that you and the landlord cannot manage on your own. Many brokers act as if they are handling multi-million euro properties, despite offering little to no actual service to tenants.

4. Excessive Upfront Payment Demands

Standard practice in Greece involves paying a security deposit (usually one or two months’ rent) along with the first month’s rent. However, some landlords demand exorbitant upfront payments—as much as ten months’ rent in advance. This is an unfair and financially burdensome requirement for most tenants.

Tips for Prospective Tenants

• Inspect Properties Thoroughly: Always visit properties in person to assess their condition. If repairs are needed, negotiate with the landlord to address these issues before signing the lease.
• Seek Transparent Agreements: Ensure that any agreement about property renovations or maintenance responsibilities is documented in the lease to prevent future disputes.
• Choose Reputable Brokers or Skip Them Entirely: Work with established and reputable real estate agents. Research their credentials and read reviews from previous clients to gauge their reliability. Alternatively, consider dealing directly with landlords to avoid unnecessary broker fees.
• Negotiate Payment Terms: Be cautious of landlords demanding large upfront payments. Stick to the standard practice of a one- or two-month security deposit plus the first month’s rent.

Navigating Thessaloniki’s rental market requires diligence and awareness. By staying informed and cautious, you can find a home that meets your needs without unnecessary complications. Don’t let bad landlords and brokers take advantage of you—stay firm, ask the right questions, and never rush into signing a contract.