Self Building – Residential Property Investment in Greece.

Self Building – Residential Property Investment in Greece.

The next stage of your self-build is to find a properly accredited architect or engineer, who will draw up plans for your dream home. This is probably the easiest part of the process, because there are very few dishonest architects in Greece. Working in an earthquake zone means that they are highly trained and heavily regulated, and a shoddy architect faces a jail term if they are found cutting corners. Greeks tend to translate the term ‘architect’ as a building mechanic, so do not be confused if they start talking about finding a mechanic – it has nothing to do with cars!

He only choice is based around stylistics and personality, whether you feel that they have bought into your vision or are trying to impose their own ideas. Obviously, speaking your language is useful, as you really do not want communications issues to affect your home. A small misunderstanding can have devastating consequences further down the line.

Courtesy: L. Wilson

The architect will also be aware of any local planning restrictions and requirements, ensuring that you do not fall foul of one of the many by-laws. For example, in the Mani area of the Peloponnese, all new buildings must be finished with local stone and roof tiles. They should be able to give you a rough cost for the work involved, certainly for the materials, but bear in mind that this figure is only an estimate. A good rule of thumb is to make sure that you have double the amount, for safety, but at least it will give you an idea of the price that you should be paying a contractor.

If you have found a building mechanic that you trust, then they should have a good network of building contractors and contacts. These are contractors that the architect has worked with before, and they will not want to risk their reputation by allying with work-shy cowboys. There is certainly no harm in obtaining a second opinion or asking others for recommendations, but the architect is a good start.

This is the next stage of the process, watching your dreams take shape, allowing you to move one-step closer to buying your property investment in Greece.