The buying procedure

Snobby is probably the only builder in Crete without bank borrowings. This financial strength has enabled us to put in place a legally secure, risk-free method of purchase ensuring your money is fully protected. No other builder in Crete provides this level of protection.

We do not accept stage payments. You pay just the deposit and the balance is paid on contract completion. It’s as simple as that.

We appreciate that buying a property abroad is a huge investment in trust, which is why we are there to help and guide you through every step of the buying procedure.

THE POWER OF ATTORNEY

In Greece you can only appoint a lawyer to represent you through a Power of Attorney sworn at the Government Notary’s Office. It is far simpler if you can do this while you are in Crete. We will take care of all the preparatory details needed, make an appointment with the Notary and accompany you on the day to give you support.

Unlike a UK Power of Attorney, in Greece it states precisely what the lawyer can specifically undertake on your behalf - and no more. The cost for the document is approximately 70€ which you pay directly to the Notary on the day.

YOUR LAWYER

Just as in the UK, two different lawyers are needed to act on a property conveyance. One acting solely for the vendor and another for the buyer. We can introduce you to an English speaking lawyer used to dealing with UK clients - or if you already have your own lawyer we will discount the Snobby purchase price by 500€ towards your legal fees.

The Power of Attorney specifically appoints your lawyer to secure a Greek tax number on your behalf - a legal necessity for buying property in Greece - and will also arrange to open a Greek bank account in your name.

The lawyer will also act on your behalf in dealing with any utility or government department in the purchase of your Snobby and will check and complete the purchase contract which is prepared by the Government Notary. At that point your lawyer has no further jurisdiction and cannot represent you further, having discharged all the duties detailed in the Power of Attorney.

PEACE OF MIND

Once you have decided to buy a Snobby we prepare a legal Purchase Quotation showing exactly what you are buying, with a detailed build specification and confirmation of the purchase price which we guarantee will not change.
 

PAYING THE DEPOSIT

A 25% deposit falls due after an initial 10 day cooling off period. To protect you against any adverse exchange rates, this sum is paid in the UK, to Snobby Homes UK Limited, whereupon the company legally transfers ownership of the land and property into your name thus fully securing your deposit.

COMPLETING YOUR PROPERTY PURCHASE

During the build process we will e-mail you with pictures keeping you up to date with progress on your new home. We then advise you a month before completion to give you time to arrange for the 75% balance to be forwarded to your own bank account in Crete. Once your home is complete – and not before – your lawyer will officially contact you, requesting your authority, by e-mail, to withdraw funds ready for contract completion. It’s as simple as that.