We were thinking of doing something similar but, after years of chatting with the locals in the area, with ex pats who are doing the same and with colleagues who have 'property' in Crete, the advice seems to be to negotiate a long lease/rent rather than buying. This is partly because of the complexities of ownership in Crete, partly because of the current financial situation and the potential risks of interest rates etc etc and devaluation and, partly, because some great deals can be worked out. A friend's Mum, for example, was offered and accepted a traditional village home just south of Rethymnon for e3000 euros for a 12 month agreement. Please don't take this all as gospel as it is only what we have found out and been advised but it is worth asking for some alternative solutions. Guess it depends what you are looking for and for how long. Good luck anyway !