The Greek real estate management system enters a new era with less bureaucracy and greater efficiency, as all mortgage offices in the country are abolished and their responsibilities are fully transferred to the Land Registry.
A Historic Transition: From Mortgage Offices to the Digital Land Registry
The 392 mortgage offices that operated in Greece, with 201 of them closing permanently in 2024, are now a thing of the past. This transition marks a historic change, enhancing the digital transformation of public administration and improving citizen services.
With the abolition of mortgage offices, all processes related to property transfers and management are now carried out through the Land Registry. Citizens are freed from the complex and time-consuming procedures of the past, while the new system offers greater transparency, security, and speed.
Digitization: The "Key" to the New Era
The digitization project, funded by the Recovery Fund, is already 45% complete, according to official statements from the relevant ministry. So far, 280 million pages have been digitized, with the goal of reaching 600 million pages expected to be achieved soon.
The digitization of records facilitates quick and secure access for lawyers and citizens without requiring physical presence at Land Registry offices. This initiative ensures seamless service without delays or inconvenience.
New Services and Innovations
- Electronic Platform "akinita.gov.gr":
- All property transactions carried out through the platform are completed with the issuance of a transfer certificate within just one business day.
- Progress in Land Registration:
- The land registration rate has reached 60%, with full completion targeted by the end of 2025.
- Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
- The Land Registry is the first public entity to utilize an AI system to expedite administrative decisions, doubling the weekly decisions since September 2024.
Official Statements
The Minister of Digital Governance, Dimitris Papastergiou, stated:
"With the permanent closure of 392 mortgage offices across the country, we take a significant step to facilitate citizens, reduce bureaucracy, and enhance the security of real estate transactions. The Land Registry is now a modern and digitized entity that even utilizes artificial intelligence to accelerate processes."
Similarly, the Deputy Minister of Digital Governance, Konstantinos Kyranakis, noted:
"The confusion caused by the parallel system of Mortgage Offices and Land Registries is finally a thing of the past. We are now focusing on a fully digital and reliable Land Registry, ensuring faster service and transaction security."
Conclusion
The abolition of mortgage offices and the full integration of processes into the Land Registry represent a historic reform reflecting the modernization of the country. The use of technology, digitization of records, and simplification of procedures ensure better service for citizens and the creation of a more efficient state.
