Remote work has significantly reshaped housing needs, increasing demand for larger and more functional homes. Buyers now seek properties that accommodate both work and daily living, transforming the real estate market. Initially adopted as a temporary measure during the pandemic, remote work has now solidified as a permanent choice for many professionals and businesses.

More specifically, demand for homes with extra rooms or dedicated office spaces has surged, as workers seek environments that support productivity. Before the pandemic, location was the primary factor in home selection, with proximity to work and essential services driving purchasing behavior. However, changes in work arrangements have influenced buyer and renter preferences. The reduced need for commuting, combined with the flexibility of working from home, has increased demand for more spacious and functional homes—even those outside major urban centers.

More buyers now prefer homes with additional office space, larger living areas, and comfortable outdoor features like balconies, terraces, or gardens. Families and professionals opt for quieter neighborhoods with a better quality of life and access to nature. Suburbs and greener areas are becoming increasingly popular, as people seek a lifestyle that balances work and personal life.

Greece has not been unaffected by these trends. Although remote work adoption in the country lags behind other European nations, the growing demand for spacious and functional properties is evident. Areas outside central Athens and other major cities are attracting more interest, offering larger homes, more outdoor space, and improved living conditions.

However, the Greek real estate market is adapting more slowly to these changes compared to other countries. A key challenge is the lack of modern, functional properties in urban areas, as most apartments were designed for a lifestyle where work was primarily done outside the home. Nonetheless, the market is gradually transforming. Demand for larger apartments, homes with dedicated workspaces, and quieter residential areas continues to grow, while property prices in suburban zones are on a steady upward trajectory.

Globally, remote work has already shaped new real estate trends. In cities like London and Paris, suburban property prices have risen significantly as workers prioritize quality of life and seek to escape crowded city centers. Meanwhile, urban property prices have stagnated or even declined as proximity to offices becomes less crucial.

In the U.S., 25% of employees now work remotely at least three days a week, while the European average stands at 13%. Countries like the Netherlands and Norway have embraced remote work extensively, transforming their real estate markets and increasing demand for flexible living spaces.

These shifts present new opportunities for real estate investors. The rising demand for larger, adaptable homes, combined with the emphasis on quality of life, is reshaping the market. Smart homes, energy-efficient buildings, and properties with advanced connectivity features are expected to play a key role in the future.