Israelis are actively searching the Thessaloniki market for available properties to house entire families as they seek refuge from the ongoing conflict in Gaza. To aid their efforts, they’ve enlisted the support of the local Jewish community in the northern Greek city, which is helping in any way it can.
Many Israelis are willing to pay a premium to secure properties, even if they won’t be occupied for several months. The focus is on apartments, with an emphasis on short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb. Thessaloniki is a prime location due to its historical connections, but there’s also strong demand in Athens, especially in the southern suburbs and areas beyond the city limits.
In a sign of the times, a real estate agent recently signed a contract for two villas in the Saronida area for more than six months, hoping for a semblance of calm in the area by then.
Andreas Chiou, president of PASYDA, said: “Following the recent events in the Middle East, many Israelis have sought safe havens in countries they consider friendly and free from the threat of missile attacks.
Cyprus is the first choice due to its proximity, followed by Greece, as Israeli citizens feel safe in these countries thanks to the growing positive relations between them. Turkey, on the other hand, is avoided because of President Erdoğan’s criticism of Israel’s actions in escalating the conflict.
There is also growing interest in Greece’s ‘golden visa’ programme, which offers permanent residency and free movement in Europe for property purchases over €250,000. Estate agents outside Athens and Thessaloniki, particularly in places such as Rhodes and Chania, are reporting interest from Israelis looking to invest in Greek property.
This increased activity by Israelis is providing a boost to the Greek property market, which is considered one of the most affordable markets in Europe in terms of price per square metre and has gained stability in recent years.
