With housing remaining one of Greece’s most pressing challenges, the government is reportedly considering a penalty tax on vacant properties, according to MEGA.
The proposed measure would target owners who leave properties empty and do not participate in renovation or upgrade programs that would make them available for rent or sale.
The idea draws inspiration from France and Ireland, two countries that have faced similar pressures but adopted different approaches.
In France, vacant homes are taxed at 17% of their estimated rental value in the first year, rising to 34% from the second year onward. In Ireland, the tax can reach up to five times the standard property tax.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ office is also said to be exploring the option of increasing ENFIA property taxes for unused homes.
The housing crisis in Greece has reached a critical point, particularly for younger generations, many of whom earn low wages and struggle to meet basic housing and living expenses.
Source: tovima.com
