Corfu

Corfu, the second largest of the Ionian Islands, lies off the west of mainland Greece. It has long been popular with international buyers, whether they are after a holiday home, investment property or a sunny retirement.

It has rocky headlands, forests, sandy beaches and its capital, Corfu Town, has a beautiful Italianate harbourfront. At 62 kilometres long and 30 kilometres at its widest point, it’s easy to get around via bus or car, although there are two mountain ranges, reaching 900metres.

There is plenty to do too, from exploring ancient Greek temples and Roman baths, to visiting art galleries and museums. The capital has all the shops and restaurants you would expect in a wealthy modern city, but also a charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Superb for exploring Renaissance, Baroque and Classical architecture. 

Why buy property in Corfu

A home in Corfu will meet every expectation of a Greek island home: lush landscapes, olive groves, long summers and stunning beaches.

For many international buyers, what makes Corfu even more appealing is that it remains a lively place to be, all year round, even if flights go via Athens in the off-season.

Corfu has captivated the hearts of many British buyers, in particular. The late Prince Philip was born there. Famously, the Durrells moved from Bournemouth to the island in the 1930s and the book My Family and other Animals became a best seller.

Due to its ties to Britain, English is widely spoken. There is a large expat community, who will make adjusting to your new home more seamless. There is even a cricket club!

Corfu has a reputation for being high-end, especially in the north east, but property here is generally more affordable than hotspots such as Mykonos.  

The weather in Corfu

Summers in Corfu are hot and dry, cooling in September to average highs of the mid-20s.

It does get wet in the autumn and winter, but temperatures generally stay up in the mid-teens Celsius.

What can I get for my budget in Corfu

Property for sale in Corfu ranges from older, inexpensive inland homes to vast, luxury waterfront villas.

The more luxurious, pricier properties tend to be on the north-east coast of the island. With a budget of under €100,000, you could purchase a small apartment or village house in need of renovation. While a budget of €200,000 can buy a detached family house inland. Seafront properties start at €500,000.

Is a property in Corfu a good investment?

As tourist-friendly locations go, property for sale in Corfu is around mid-table for prices. Homes are generally more budget-friendly than some other island hotspots such as those in the Cyclades, but you can certainly spend millions if you want to.

On some of the Greek islands, property prices are low but so is demand, meaning that buyers cannot count on capital appreciation or reliable rental income. With its popularity as a holiday home and status as an expat hotspot, Corfu does not face either of these.

According to indomio, the average ask price for properties in Corfu was €2,427 per square metre (August 2024), a rise of 13% compared to the year before.

How to get to Corfu

 Corfu has its own international airport with flights to major European destinations. The holiday season lasts from April to October, and while flights reduce outside of these months, they do not halt altogether. Athens, London, Munich, Vienna, Rome and Frankfurt can be reached via direct flight throughout the year. You may also like to travel via ferry, either to the mainland, other islands or Italy.

Once there, Corfu has a good bus service to help you get around.

Where to buy in Corfu

North-East Coast

If you’re seeking a luxury villa, base your search here. It is dotted with fishing villages, pristine beaches and coves, with stylish villas benefitting from privacy. It is this area that has gained the nickname “Kensington-on-the-Sea”.

• Kalami: Known for its beautiful bay and the famous White House, once home to the Durrell family. Kalami has a small summer resort, with restaurants, shops and villas boasting of bay views.
• Agios Stephanos: A picturesque fishing village with a population of less than 1,000. You’ll find a small pebble beach and traditional taverns.

Corfu Town

Located in the middle of the island, Corfu Town is characterised by its Venetian-style architecture and lively atmosphere. It is the perfect place to hunt for characterful townhouses.

South of Corfu Town

•  Benitses: A popular resort with beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife. It offers a range of properties from modern apartments to traditional houses.

• Kavos: Known for its vibrant nightlife, Kavos is a favourite among younger buyers and those looking for investment properties in the rental market.
• Petriti and Boukari: These traditional fishing villages offer a more laidback lifestyle. They are great for those seeking a peaceful vibe and sea views.

11 steps to buying a property in Corfu

Buying a property in Corfu is not difficult, if you have a plan and some help from professionals. Follow our step-by-step guide to make your dream a reality. 

1. Research and planning: Download guides, read articles, sign up for events and exhibitions to gather all the information you may need about buying a property in Corfu. Do you know anyone who has already bought in Greece, or lives there? Maybe give them a call. Try to narrow down the location you want to buy a property in. 
2. Define what you’re looking for: Determine what you want in terms of property type, size, location, accessibility and budget. Separate your must-have features from your nice-to-haves. Allow for buying costs of up to 10% on top of the sales price.
3. Speak to a currency expert: Firstly, you need to know your budget. Secondly, moving exchange rates are a risk in international property purchases, so discuss managing that risk with a forward contract that fixes your exchange rate.
4. Make essential connections: Connect with a local estate agent. The easiest way to do that is to make an enquiry on a property in Corfu. Also contact an independent property lawyer and maybe a tax specialist too. Your Overseas Home can help you, so give them a call.
5. Viewing trip: Speak to your estate agent about your requirements, then book a viewing trip to visit potential properties. The agent will advise on the best time for that.
6. Get your AFM number The ‘Arithmos Forologikou Mitroou’ number is a tax identification number necessary for financial transactions, including purchasing property. Head to the local tax office with your passport and birth certificate to obtain it.
7. Make an offer: When you find a property you like, you can make an offer via your estate agent. Your lawyer will begin the legal and due diligence processes. 
8. Sign the reservation and sales contract: You may have to pay a reservation fee to take the property off the market. Once approved, and due diligence completed, you’ll sign the contract and pay a deposit (usually around 10%). 
9. Plan for utility connections: The wait begins, this can often take several weeks. Look into getting your utilities connecting during this time
10. Sign the final contract: When ready, you’ll be asked to sign the final contract in front of the notary and pay the outstanding amount on the property, along with the relevant taxes, stamp duty, notary fees, and legal fees. Then, you’ll get the keys to your very own home
11. Register the property: Finally, once you’ve signed the final contract, your lawyer will register the property with the Land Registry to ensure the property is in your name.