The adjustment of object tax values in Greece is turning into a very tough mission as surveyors in many regions are coming up with vastly different zone rates, reports Kathimerini newspaper.
Surveyors’ results could create significant tax increases if adopted.
Greek Finance Ministry officials point to increases at mainly small villages which were popular winter destinations before the COVID-19 pandemic. Restrictions and travel bans have made these areas less appealing for investors.
Greek Finance Minister Christos Staikouras said on Thursday that the new objective values will be delayed and there are considerations to bring additional surveyors to assess the difference between proposed rates.
The minister told Skai radio that there are two considerations: (1) adjusting objective values so that they are closer to market rates; (2) expanding the tax base to include new areas to the system.
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Mr Staikouras said the task of adjusting objective values has been made more difficult to the pandemic but is worthwhile as it could lead to ENFIA reductions within the year, especially for owners of small and medium-sized properties.
“We will not save any extra fiscal space for other needs; if we manage to incorporate the data on time and have some fiscal leeway, this will be directed to the reduction of ENFIA,” Mr Staikouras said.
Sources point to hikes in areas within the city centre, with some pointing to 50-60 per cent increases, and a rise to 90-100 per cent for tourist destinations and small villages.
