Luxury rentals in Greece: Why now is the ideal time to start a career in a rising industry

The changing market: Numbers that speak for themselves

Greece broke its own tourism records in 2025 with 37.98 million international visitors and revenues of €22.4 billion. This is no coincidence. Revenues grew at nearly double the rate of arrivals, a clear signal that Greek tourism is undergoing a structural shift toward higher spending visitors.

In the luxury real estate sector, the numbers are even more impressive. Reservations for luxury villas increased by 29% in 2025 compared to the previous year, reflecting the steady preference of premium travelers for exclusive, high value experiences in Greece. Furthermore, high end villas are seeing increased interest, with their availability running out 9 to 12 months in advance, reflecting the growing desire for exclusive stays.

According to luxury real estate market data, the viewing to transaction ratio more than doubled, from 6.5% in 2023 to 14.2% in 2024. This means that the market is not only moving quantitatively, but also qualitatively, with buyers and renters who make decisions and take action.

Who is the luxury rental client today

The modern luxury rental client is not the traveler looking for the cheapest option. They represent an entirely different profile, and understanding them is the first advantage of an advisor in the industry.

The luxury real estate market in Greece attracts high net worth individuals from around the world, remote professionals and digital nomads, as well as expatriates with emotional and financial motivations. Approximately 50% of active buyers are from abroad, driven by the lifestyle, investment prospects, and the appeal of Greece as a living destination.

Greece is increasingly becoming a destination for highly skilled individuals from all over the world who wish to live in Europe. It is also a popular destination for retirees, digital nomads, and expatriates.

This clientele requires an advisor who speaks their language, both literally and metaphorically. English is practically essential, and a second language, such as German, French, or Arabic, translates into a distinct professional advantage.

Why luxury rentals are the right choice

Selling a property is a large, rare transaction. Premium rentals, on the other hand, generate recurring demand, build ongoing client relationships, and offer a more direct and accessible entry point into the industry.

According to the 2024 ITEP Annual Survey on the Hotel Industry, the 5 star hotel segment generates 40% of the industry's total net revenue, while 4 star hotels contribute an additional 39%. Overall, the 3 to 5 star categories account for 92% of the hotel sector's total turnover.

The luxury residential sector is not stagnant: revenues in the 4 and 5 star categories increased by 9.9% in 2024 compared to 2023, while lower categories grew by only 5%.

An additional element changing the rules for professionals is the lengthening of the season. The strategy of extending tourist activity into the shoulder and winter months is gaining significant momentum, transforming a supposedly seasonal market into a stable, year round working environment.

What makes this industry ideal for a career changer

The luxury rentals sector rewards not only those who know the technical details of real estate, but also those who know how to build trusting relationships. This is precisely the strong suit of those coming from sales, hospitality, banking, or customer service.

Previous experience in the real estate sector is not required, as the training program covers all aspects of the role, provided that candidates demonstrate strong communication skills and professionalism.

Engel & Völkers promotes new talent, supports career changes, and continuously trains industry professionals, relying on a flexible communication culture with a commitment to individual growth.

Engel & Völkers: A global network with a local foundation

Choosing the right brand is the first strategic step for a luxury rentals advisor. It is not enough to just enter the industry, you need to enter with the right tools and the right connections.

A real estate advisor is not just a salesperson, but a strategic partner who manages portfolios and client expectations. Engel & Völkers provides access to a global network with a leading academy, offering structured and comprehensive training that covers everything from sales and marketing techniques to legal matters and the use of digital tools.

By choosing to start your career at Engel & Völkers, daily work becomes easier thanks to the tools and support provided, such as extensive training seminars, modern technological tools, marketing department support from day one, contemporary office spaces, and regular webinars.

With Engel & Völkers, you do not simply join a local office, but you become part of a global network with a presence in more than 35 countries across 5 continents and over 1,000 locations worldwide. This international reach opens the door to premium properties and a demanding clientele that seeks high service standards.