THE IMPACT OF PROPERTY TAX CHANGES IN SUPPORT OF SUSTAINABLE TAX REVENUE IN GREECE
THE IMPACT OF PROPERTY TAX CHANGES IN SUPPORT OF SUSTAINABLE TAX REVENUE IN GREECE

Summary/Abstract: Aim: This paper aims to provide an overview of the existing legal framework of property tax in Greece and the relevant tax trends of the examined period from 1974–2018. Methods: The legal framework for the property tax is analyzed. From a methodological point of view, the focus is on the historical period between 1974 (the end of the dictatorship) and 2018, and limiting the analysis to 2018, excluding events such as the 2019 elections, the exit from the debt market, and the COVID-19 period. Results: Concerning property taxes, it was observed that during the financial crisis and onwards, property tax revenue increased to meet the quantitative targets of the adjustment program. This was achieved by the rationalization of property tax bases and the introduction of uniform real estate property tax (ENFIA). Moreover, the composition of property taxes was shifting over time, giving more weight to the recurrent tax of immovable properties compared to what was the case in the past, where the taxes were mainly transac- tion-based. Conclusions: To sum up, the review of property tax revenues is beneficial because it consists of a critical and sustainable source of revenue, whereas a valid quantification of tax measures should be implemented to provide the public with a useful exogenous tax tool using a narrative approach. Therefore, the establishment of a stable tax policy framework for immovable property provides sustainable tax revenue. Thus, further rationalization of property taxation, market-based valuation, and tax base broad- ening will also contribute to a fairer and more efficient tax system.

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