Engel & Völkers
  • 4 min read

Property Sale: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Two real estate professionals in business attire reviewing content on a laptop in a bright office space. A man wearing glasses and a dark blazer points at the screen while a woman in a black dress looks on attentively. City buildings are visible through the window in the background.

The sale of a property goes far beyond the limits of a simple transaction. It is a complex financial undertaking that requires strategic insight, meticulous planning, and specialized guidance in order to be crowned with absolute success. Achieving the maximum possible return is not a matter of luck, but the result of a methodical process that turns challenges into opportunities and safeguards the value of the investment. In a market environment characterized by dynamism and constant changes, the seller’s approach must be equally advanced.

The Greek real estate market in 2025 demonstrates remarkable resilience and dynamism. According to the most recent data from the Bank of Greece, during the second quarter of 2025, apartment prices nationwide recorded an annual growth rate of 7.3%. While this figure indicates a market with strong momentum, it also highlights the need for a deep understanding of the factors that shape the value and attractiveness of a property. Successful navigation of this landscape requires more than mere intuition; it demands a data-driven strategy.

Selling a property can prove complex if not approached with professionalism and proper preparation. The real estate consultants of Engel & Völkers, based on their experience, highlight some of the most common mistakes owners make and advise you on how to avoid them.

Table of Content

  1. Incomplete preparation of documents

  2. Incorrect price estimation

  3. Lack of proper presentation

  4. Undervaluing the role of an agent

  5. Failure to resolve planning issues

  6. Traps in deposits and contracts

  7. Hasty decisions and emotional involvement

  8. Choosing unreliable buyers

  9. Why Entrust Engel & Völkers with the Sale of Your Property

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Incomplete preparation of documents

The thorough preparation of the necessary documents is fundamental. The owner-seller must maintain a complete file including the title deeds, the energy performance certificate, municipal fee and ENFIA tax clearance certificates, and the engineer’s certificate of no planning violations. Any omission or delay at this stage may complicate the process and discourage serious potential buyers.

Incorrect price estimation

Overpricing leads to prolonged market exposure, while underpricing results in loss of profit. The correct strategy includes analysis of comparable sales in the area, valuation by an experienced agent, and adjustment to market conditions.

Lack of proper presentation

First impressions are decisive. Cleanliness, a tidy environment, small improvements or renovations, and professional photography can dramatically increase buyer interest. Even a simple refresh of the walls or lighting makes the property more appealing.

Undervaluing the role of an agent

Selling without professional guidance may seem cheaper, but it often leads to wasted time and legal risks. An agent provides access to a network of buyers, handles property showings, and offers negotiation expertise that often results in a better price.

If you would like to find out the value of your property, you can use the Engel & Völkers online property valuation tool.

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Failure to resolve planning issues

Unauthorized constructions or outstanding planning issues can cancel a deal. An engineer can identify and resolve such matters in time, ensuring smooth completion of the process.

Traps in deposits and contracts

Signing pre-contracts without legal review risks financial loss or future disputes. The presence of a notary and lawyer is essential for the safety of both parties. Engel & Völkers undertakes all legal requirements, leaving you with one less thing to worry about.

Hasty decisions and emotional involvement

Pressure or excessive emotional attachment to the property may lead to wrong choices, such as rejecting realistic offers or accepting unfavorable terms. A calm attitude and expert guidance protect against such mistakes.

Choosing unreliable buyers

Not all interested parties are serious or solvent. Checking the buyer’s financial capacity and using a real estate company’s mediation reduce the risk of delays or cancellations.

A female real estate agent in a black blazer showing floor plans on a tablet to two clients - a woman in a light coat with a patterned scarf and a man wearing glasses - in a bright, window-lit office setting.

Why Entrust Engel & Völkers with the Sale of Your Property

A successful property sale is not a matter of luck, but of strategy. That is why you need proper guidance from experienced, specialized consultants.

By choosing to work with Engel & Völkers, you automatically benefit from our three core values:

Competence: Every real estate transaction is unique. At Engel & Völkers we provide fully personalized services, tailored to the specific needs and expectations of each client. Our goal is your maximum satisfaction.

Exclusivity: We specialize in luxury properties while also having an international network present in the world’s most important markets. Our global reach allows us to approach the most demanding clients, combining exclusivity with excellence.

Passion: Real Estate is our passion. Our team consists of experienced and specialized consultants who stay at the forefront of the latest market trends. This way, we ensure excellent results and consistent support throughout the entire process.

If you are interested in selling your property through Engel & Völkers, contact us and entrust us with its care.

Contact

Contact your personal advisor

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Portrait of Nikoleta Tzeliou

Engel & Völkers Greece

Athens Tower 2-4, Mesogeion Avenue (10th Floor)

11527 Athens, Greece

Tel: +30 211 105 500 0