The first signs of a slowdown in the rate of increase in values and stabilization – albeit at high prices – have been recorded in the greater Athens area housing market.

In this year’s annual report, the Engel & Volkers Greece network of real estate agencies notes that “the Athens real estate market, going through the first half of 2026, is going from a phase of rapid growth to a period of strategic maturation. We are no longer talking about a market that is recovering, but about a market that is becoming more selective, more demanding and, ultimately, more professional.”

Based on the company’s data, which derives from actual purchases and sales, the average sale price (newly built and older properties) is now at a level greater than €3,000 per square meter. At the same time, in high-demand areas, such as Maroussi and Nea Smyrni, prices continue to increase rapidly (12% and 13%, respectively) on an annual basis. However, in other areas where large increases were recorded in the past, milder increases are observed, even below 4-5%.

Another trend that Engel & Volkers highlights is the shift toward smaller homes. As it emphasized, “while previously a family of four was looking for 120 sq.m., now it is turning to smaller apartments, but with a more functional layout in order to be able to cope with the cost of purchase and maintenance.”

According to Giorgos Petras, CEO of Engel & Volkers Greece, “the international investment community continues to show confidence in the Greek economy, but the way in which capital is invested has changed. Foreign institutional and private investors are no longer looking for ‘opportunities’ in general, but are focusing precisely on high-value-added properties. This convergence between domestic and international demand is now shaping a two-speed market. High-end properties now ensure greater liquidity and capital appreciation, while properties that do not meet modern standards are increasingly finding it difficult to attract interest.”

The most expensive areas continue to be Vouliagmeni, Glyfada, Psychiko, Filothei and Kolonaki, while the most affordable include Agia Varvara, Menidi, Perama and Ano Liosia, according to the report.