Professional transition to real estate: Why Greece’s top talent chooses Engel & Völkers in 2026

The new era of Greek real estate

The real estate market in Greece is no longer just a sector of the economy, but the main driving force of growth for 2025 and 2026 (Source: Real estate and construction 2025-2026). The current landscape is defined by a unique convergence of factors: the limited supply of new housing, continued international demand through the Golden Visa 2.0 program, and the activation of government initiatives such as "My Home 2" have pushed prices to historic highs. In this environment, the need for real estate advisors who operate not merely as intermediaries but as strategic partners is more pressing than ever.

Engel & Völkers, as a global leader in premium real estate, recognizes that success in the sector requires a set of skills often found in professionals with experience in other demanding fields. The discipline of an armed forces officer, the financial expertise of a banking executive, the resilience of an insurance advisor, and the aesthetic vision of an architect form the foundation of a "first-class" real estate advisor. For these professionals, transitioning into real estate is not simply a career change, but a strategic move toward an industry that rewards expertise, integrity, and dedication with financial independence and professional recognition.

The stability of the Greek economy, with GDP projected to grow by 2.1% in 2025 and 2.3% in 2026, strengthens domestic purchasing power and demand for quality housing. At the same time, the sharp decline in unemployment to below 10% and the increase in tourism revenues to €20.5 billion create a favorable backdrop for investment in second homes and tourist accommodations.

The transition from strategic leadership to real estate management

Armed forces executives who complete their careers possess a set of qualities that are rare and highly valuable in the business world. Discipline, the ability to make decisions under pressure, and strong goal orientation are exactly the attributes required to handle complex real estate transactions.

Transitioning into the real estate sector allows these professionals to apply their experience in a free-market environment, where efficiency translates directly into financial reward. A retired officer’s ability to analyze the "big picture" of an area and identify opportunities and risks closely resembles the analysis of a local property market. In addition, discretion and transparency - core values of military life - are fully aligned with the service standards of Engel & Völkers.

The real estate industry offers these professionals a new "mission", where the reward reflects their level of personal commitment. Engel & Völkers provides the framework for a smooth transition, offering training through the Academy and access to a global network, enabling former officers to remain productive and financially independent.

Capitalizing on financial acumen

The restructuring of the Greek banking system in recent years has led many experienced executives to voluntarily exit through early retirement programs. These professionals possess a critical advantage: deep knowledge of financial products, mortgage lending, and risk assessment procedures. The ability of a former banker to guide a buyer toward the optimal financing solution is a value-added service that few real estate agents can offer with the same level of expertise.

Banks in Greece have dynamically re-entered the real estate market, with investments exceeding €1.5 billion, highlighting the sector’s profitability. Professionals coming from this environment are already familiar with managing large assets and serving high-profile clients. Transitioning to Engel & Völkers allows them to leverage their voluntary exit compensation as startup capital for a career with unlimited earning potential through commissions, free from the constraints of a corporate salary structure.

Moreover, the banking culture of systematic target tracking and consistent follow-up aligns perfectly with success in property sales. Engel & Völkers offers these professionals the independence they seek, while supporting them with a global platform that facilitates international transactions and cross-selling opportunities.

The art of communication and relationship management

Insurance intermediaries are perhaps the most well-prepared professionals for the day-to-day reality of real estate. Their experience in needs analysis, objection handling, and building trust-based relationships forms the foundation of success in the property sector. An insurance advisor understands that they are not simply selling a policy, but security and their client’s future - an approach that perfectly aligns with choosing a home.

Their ability to explain complex legal and technical terms in a simple and clear way is crucial in any property transaction. Engel & Völkers offers these professionals a premium brand that enables them to approach a more high-end clientele, significantly increasing their average commission size.

Transitioning into real estate allows insurance brokers to diversify their income while offering clients a comprehensive solution for their assets. With the support of the E&V Academy, they can enhance their expertise and become the "go-to" person for every real estate need within their network.

Freelancers and digital marketers: The power of the digital era in sales

In the 2026 real estate market, digital presence is everything. Freelancers with experience in digital marketing and content creation have a significant competitive advantage. The ability to produce compelling audiovisual content and understand online user behavior translates directly into high-quality leads.

A digital marketer knows how to build a strong personal brand and position themselves as an expert in a specific geographic area or property type. The use of AI tools for market data analysis, along with communication automation through CRM systems, allows advisors to be more productive and dedicate more time to meaningful human interaction. Engel & Völkers supports these professionals with "E&V Create" and other advanced digital tools that make their work easier and more effective.

Transitioning into real estate offers freelancers the financial stability of a powerful brand and the opportunity to apply their expertise in a field with significantly higher earnings per transaction compared to traditional marketing services.

Architects and interior designers: The added value of design

For architects and interior designers, real estate is the field where creativity meets investment performance. A designer’s ability to "see" the potential of a space beyond its current condition is a unique sales tool. An architect-advisor can provide accurate renovation cost estimates and help buyers envision their future home, reducing uncertainty and hesitation.

Research shows that homes with professional staging sell faster and at higher prices. In the 2026 luxury market - where the trend of "Quiet Luxury" and natural materials (travertine, marble, natural plasters) dominates - the expertise of a specialist is essential for proper presentation and pricing. The architect-advisor acts as a trusted consultant who guarantees both the functionality and the aesthetic excellence of the property.

Joining Engel & Völkers allows professionals to leverage their expertise in a market that values quality, while gaining access to a global network that seeks architectural excellence.

Engel & Völkers: Training, Technology and Brand

The decision to make a career change is often accompanied by uncertainty. Engel & Völkers eliminates that uncertainty by offering a comprehensive support system. The E&V Academy provides specialized training that covers every aspect of the profession, from negotiation techniques to the use of AI tools. New advisors do not start alone - they become part of a team that operates according to the highest international standards.

The company’s technological edge, with tools such as a CRM system that connects 16,700 professionals worldwide, allows advisors to access buyers from every corner of the globe. The Engel & Völkers brand is synonymous with exclusivity and quality. It opens doors that remain closed to the competition, giving advisors the prestige required to handle the finest properties in every area.

Engel & Völkers invests in its people by offering an environment that fosters entrepreneurship and personal growth. Working as an independent advisor under the umbrella of such an organization provides the ideal combination of freedom and professional security.

The Greek real estate market in 2026 is a market of opportunity for those who have the right foundation and the desire to grow. At Engel & Völkers, with the support of the Academy, the power of technology, and the prestige of an international brand, the path to financial independence and professional success is open. The time to take the next step in your career is now - in a market that is looking for the leaders of tomorrow.

As part of its expansion plans, Engel & Völkers will host a Recruitment Open Day for real estate advisors in Thessaloniki on March 4, 2026.

Join us to learn more and discover your path to the top.

Register your participation here.