There are investments that make noise. They shout from a distance, demand attention, walk around in suits and ties. And then there are those that work quietly, methodically, effectively. Student housing belongs to the second category. It’s the investment that runs – but stays under the radar.
The demand for student accommodation, steadily increasing in recent years, is not just a temporary phenomenon. It reflects a stable demographic cycle, reinforced by the fact that many universities are located within cities with insufficient housing infrastructure. Students – both from Greece and abroad – look every year for decent, safe, and financially reasonable accommodation. And the supply simply does not meet the demand.
This creates an interesting investment field: ✔️ steady demand ✔️ rising rents ✔️ lower vacancy risk ✔️ continuous recycling of the target group
Where to invest?
When we talk about student housing, we’re not only referring to major cities. Thessaloniki, Patras, Rethymno, Volos, even Komotini, all have a vibrant and stable student presence. The key is to identify properties that:
– are within walking distance or direct public transport access to universities – are designed or easily adaptable into small functional units (studios, garsonieres, 1-bedroom apartments) – have low operating costs (heating, common charges) – allow for renovations with a limited budget and maximum return
What’s the yield?
Depending on the city and purchase cost, net annual yields can range between 5% – 8%. These returns increase when the property is properly managed: – with carefully selected tenants – 9–12 month contracts – electronic invoicing and payment tracking – internal maintenance and inspection systems
Why now?
Because purchase prices in many regional cities remain affordable. Because rents are rising. And because this type of investment carries a social impact: you help address the housing problem for a generation that – more than ever – needs support to be able to study.
Our proposal at AFS
If you are considering investing in student housing, we can support you from A to Z:
– Opportunity identification – Cost–yield analysis – Purchase and renovation management – Advisory on corporate or personal use – Strategic tax planning for your investment
Whether you want to acquire a single property or build a small portfolio – student housing may be the quietest, yet most stable, step in your investment strategy.
Because, as the title says: It’s the investment that runs… and stays under the radar.
Karamanou Elina | Athens Financial Services
CEO | CO-Founder | Business Consultant
Contact us here
