Crete remains the leading destination for foreign buyers seeking a holiday home in Greece this year, according to data compiled by real estate firm Elxis – At Home in Greece.

The company’s 2026 client data show that one in three buyers is choosing Crete for a second-home purchase.

Most prospective buyers come from Western European countries, including the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France and the United Kingdom. The survey also found strong purchase intent, with 76.6% of respondents planning to buy a holiday home within the next 12 months. Of those, half — equivalent to 38.3% of the total sample — expect to complete a purchase within the next six months.

According to Elxis, 36.5% of buyers interested in Crete have a budget of up to 400,000 euros, while a further 22% are prepared to spend between 400,000 and 600,000 euros.

Newly built homes remain the preferred option, with 71% of buyers opting for new properties or homes completed in recent years. Sea views, proximity to the coast and a private swimming pool rank among the most sought-after features.
Elxis is a leading provider of real estate and legal services in Greece.