The Athenian Riviera and its properties have been attracting more and more investors in recent years, but what is now striking is their age. Specifically, we observe a strong increase in interest from buyers under 40 years old, who bring a new philosophy and different requirements to the real estate market, reports Ms. Corina Saia, managing director of Premier Realty. One of the most characteristic elements is the shift in investment logic. While in the past investors focused mainly on yields from short-term rentals, the new generation focuses on long-term capital appreciation and wealth preservation.
Real estate market: What buyers seek from property investments
It is estimated that 60-70% of buyers under 40 years old invest with the goal of value appreciation over the next decade, while only 30-40% continue to prioritize income from rentals. Yields have been limited, but capital appreciation is strengthening and this has changed the way younger investors perceive the market. This shift signals the maturation of the luxury housing market, with investors now focusing more on stability, quality and timeless value, reports Ms. Corina Saia.
The moves of this group focus mainly on luxury residences with sea views and high specifications, with investments ranging from €1,000,000 to over €5,000,000. At the same time, as prices increase in central points of the Riviera, there is a turn towards areas further south and more remote, such as Anavyssos, Sounio and Lavriotiki, where investors see greater potential for future capital appreciation. According to Premier Realty estimates, today approximately 1 in 4 investors (20-25%) in the Athenian Riviera belongs to this age category, when five years ago this percentage did not exceed 8-10%.
Specifically, in 2018, the overwhelming majority of investors, approximately 90%, were over 40 years old, while only 9% belonged to the age category under 40. Six years later, in 2024, the picture has changed significantly. Investors over 40 years old remain the majority, but their percentage drops to approximately 75%, while the share of younger investors under 40 increases significantly, reaching approximately 25%. This change shows that the Athenian Riviera market now attracts younger individuals to a greater extent, a fact that reflects a trend of renewal and expansion of the investment audience. This change is not accidental. The new generations, more flexible and internationally oriented, see housing not only as shelter, but also as an investment tool and way of life.
Solar panels, thermal insulation and low environmental footprint in demand
The preference for energy-efficient and smart homes is also strong: younger investors seek projects with solar panels, thermal insulation and low environmental footprint 30-40% more frequently. Most popular categories are luxury apartments or maisonettes priced at €7,500 to €12,000 per sq.m., with peaks above €13,000 per sq.m. in seaside locations.
Remote work has also influenced demand. Technology and service professionals seek permanent or vacation homes that combine remote work and seaside living. The new generation of investors is changing the real estate map. They seek not only luxury, but also value that lasts, reports Ms. Corina Saia. The Athenian Riviera is evolving into one of the most dynamic destinations in the Mediterranean, combining international interest, quality of life and long-term value stability.
