On 1 January, restrictions on short-term rentals in areas of Athens came into force as authorities try to reduce the housing shortage for permanent residents in the capital.
The law approved in November introduced a one-year ban on registering new apartments for short-term rentals in a number of central districts, including sought-after areas such as Kolonaki, Koukaki, Pangrati and Exarchia.
Homeowners had to declare their new properties in these areas by December 31. Failure to comply resulted in a fine of at least €20,000.
The law also offers tax breaks for property owners who switch from short-term to long-term rentals.
According to US-based AirDNA, there are nearly 18,000 apartments in the Greek capital available for rent through Airbnb and Vrbo.
Demand peaks during Greece's active summer tourist season, but complaints about low availability and rising property prices in many working-class Athens neighborhoods have been growing for years. | BGNES
