In a previous article, we discussed the government’s recent measures extensively regarding the ban on new short-term rental accommodations in the three central districts of the capital. This ban, effective from January 1, 2025, involves freezing the operation of new properties through platforms like Airbnb and Booking for at least one year, primarily due to saturation in these areas (you can read more here).
Neighbourhoods outside the centre under review
Recently, during the 10th Delphi Economic Forum, Athens Mayor Haris Doukas highlighted the global housing issue, stating that freezing new licenses in areas surrounding the historical centre is being seriously considered. According to the mayor, this freeze aims to address the surge in long-term rental prices, which have increased by up to 90% over the last seven years. Short-term rentals are monitored in real-time, and the data collected aids in decision-making to resolve issues arising from the concentration of tourist accommodations in specific areas, such as Pagrati, Mets, Exarchia, Koukaki, Votanikos, and Metaxourgeio.
These areas, part of the three central districts, face significant housing challenges, with many abandoned buildings, a large number of which are publicly owned and remain unutilised.
Unutilised residences
Professor George Doukidis from the Athens University of Economics and Business presented findings from a five-year study on short-term rentals. Greece ranks third, with 2.3 million closed apartments, 27% of which, approximately 117,000, are in Athens. Rentals through platforms like Airbnb and Booking contribute 5% to the GDP, supporting around 100,000 jobs and accounting for about 30% of overnight stays.
Causes of closed residences and potential solutions
Closed properties belong to the public sector, the church, or private owners who have renounced inheritance or lack the financial means for renovation. The government’s “My home 2” program aims to utilise closed apartments and alleviate the housing crisis. However, despite its promotion as successful due to flexible criteria, the supply of available residences is minimal compared to the enormous demand.
People face despair, searching for months for a decent apartment, encountering overpriced properties that haven’t been renovated since their construction in the late ’70s. Many lack heating, advertising outdated air conditioning as a perk. Others are on the third floor without an elevator or marketed as affordable, while being old rooftop rooms of 30 square metres.
Given the above, rather than exerting pressure on short-term rentals and announcing ineffective housing programs, it might be wise to seek attractive measures for renovating millions of neglected properties and constructing modern residences, addressing issues like energy overconsumption.
