Buying Property in Italy: The Complete Guide

Should you buy property in Italy?

You’re thinking about why Italy is such a fantastic place to buy a home. Beyond the famous food, drink, culture, and climate, Italy offers practical benefits such as excellent healthcare, accessible travel options, and a lower cost of living compared to the UK.

Not quite convinced? Here are some of the best advantages of living in Italy:

1. Affordable homes

While renowned cities like Venice, Milan, or Florence have high prices, rural Italy can be surprisingly affordable. Consider swapping Tuscany for Umbria or Messina for Trapani, where property prices are significantly cheaper by over €400/m².

Many homes within driving distance of towns are quite affordable, offering better value compared to similar properties in the UK. For example, for £162,000, you can get a detached three-bedroom villa with a garden in Puglia, close to beaches, towns, and an airport.

2. Lower cost of living

A major advantage of living in Italy is lower living costs especially outside major cities. Local taxes and fresh produce are cheaper in rural areas. Plus, transport costs for trains, buses, and domestic flights are quite manageable, making it easy to travel within the country.

Moreover, as a resident, you benefit from reduced-rate electricity and no council tax on your main residence. Italy has good international airport connectivity and low-cost flights available via Ryanair and EasyJet, facilitating family visits and potential rental income from tourists.

For moving, there are many removal companies experienced in transporting goods to Italy. Italy's excellent motorways and scenery make driving a pleasure, and bringing pets along is also straightforward with the Pet Passport scheme.

4. Great climate

Move to Italy and enjoy over 2,000 hours of sunshine annually. The Mediterranean climate offers hot summers and mild winters, especially in coastal areas and southern regions. This idyllic weather allows for year-round outdoor activities and the pleasure of experiencing all four seasons.

5. Stunning landscape

Italy’s diverse landscape includes the Alps, Dolomites, large lakes, hilltop villages, and stunning coastlines. From UNESCO-recognized cultural landscapes to protected national parks, Italy offers a variety of picturesque settings for a new home.

6. Delicious food and wine

Italy's cuisine is famous for its fresh, local ingredients and regional specialties. Pasta, pizza, gelato, and an array of wines including Barolo, Chianti, and Prosecco are integral to the Italian culinary experience.

7. Italian culture

Steeped in arts, family traditions, architecture, and more, Italian culture is rich and vibrant. Historic town centers maintain their Italian feel, with local traditions and festas ongoing for centuries.

8. Places to visit

Italy is the fourth-most visited country in the world, offering a strong tourist market for property rental. Each region has unique attractions from cities like Rome and Venice to countryside gem.

9. Beautiful architecture

Italy's cities and towns boast diverse architectural styles, including classical Roman, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical. Historic buildings like the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa are must-visit landmarks, while countryside homes range from castles to farmhouses.

10. Healthy lifestyle

Italy offers a healthier lifestyle with fresh food markets, outdoor activities, and a relaxed pace of life. From gardening to sports, the options for staying active and enjoying the outdoors are plentiful.

How to buy property in Italy: The process

Did you know that buying a property in Italy takes only six months? Below is a step-by-step timeline to help plan your purchase:

Six months to go

1. Start planning by determining your reasons for moving, your preferred location, and the type of property you want.
2. Assemble a team of professionals including an estate agent, solicitor, and currency specialist.
3. Evaluate your finances and set a budget.

Five months to go

4. Begin your property search and prepare to act quickly when you find the right one.
5. Obtain your codice fiscal and open an Italian bank account.

Four months to go

6. Discuss your options with your estate agent and book a viewing trip.
7. Ensure your deposit and legal structure are in place by consulting with your solicitor and currency specialist.

Three months to go

8. Arrange meetings with specialists for inheritance laws, property taxes, and removals.
9. Make an offer on your dream property and consider signing a proposta di acquisto (purchase proposal).
10. Arrange contracts with a notary and set how to transfer funds securely.

Two months to go

13. Sign the preliminary contract (contratto preliminare) and pay your deposit.
14. Verify all paperwork with solicitors and notary, and plan for renovations and utility connections.
15. Sign the atto pubblico di compravendita (public deed of sale) and make the final payment.

What should you consider before buying property in Italy?

When buying in Italy, it’s crucial to consider both the major and minor details. Here are some key questions to help focus your property search:

Why are you buying?

Your motivation for buying can clarify what you want. Whether it’s for a better climate, family holidays, rental investment, or a new life venture, knowing your reasons will guide your search.

How will your property be used?

Understanding your usage requirements will help determine the type and location of the property. Whether for weekend visits, investment, or relocation, align your needs with your property choice.

What must your home have?

Identify your essential requirements such as the number of bedrooms, proximity to beaches or a pool, style, and outdoor spaces. This list helps narrow down your property options quickly.

What don’t you need or want?

Listing your non-negotiables can save time and effort in your property search. It also helps estate agents understand your criteria better.

What’s your budget?

Having a clear budget ensures you don’t fall for properties beyond your financial reach. Remember to account for transaction costs and currency fluctuations.

Getting your code fiscal and opening a bank account

If you are planning to purchase a property in Italy or want to open an Italian bank account, you will need a codice fiscale. This is issued by the Agenzia della Entrate (Italian Revenue Agency). You may need an Italian bank account for property purchase transactions.

The best places to live in Italy: Where will you buy?

Italy offers diverse living environments, from bustling cities to serene countryside. Each region has its unique appeal, whether it’s the work opportunities in the North, the scenic countryside in the central regions, or the relaxed lifestyle in the sunny South.

Best cities to live in Italy

Popular cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence offer a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. These cities are ideal for those wanting rental income or city living amidst vibrant culture and history.

Rome, Lazio

Rome’s rich history and cultural landmarks make it a prime location. Properties with views over famous sites like the Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona command higher prices. While central Rome can be busy, quieter areas exist in the side streets.

Milan, Lombardy

Milan, the financial and fashion capital, is known for its thriving jobs market and start-up scene. Proximity to central Europe and major transport hubs make it a suitable family destination. However, property prices are on the rise.

Florence, Tuscany

Florence boasts rich artistic and architectural heritage, making it a highly attractive location. Apartments in historical buildings with frescoes and terracotta floors are particularly sought-after.

Lucca, Tuscany

Lucca has preserved its medieval appearance with thick stone walls and Renaissance palaces. It’s relatively untouristy compared to other Italian cities, offering a tranquil lifestyle with scenic views.

Venice, Veneto

Venice's unique canals and alleyways make it a sought-after location. Properties in historic Venetian Gothic palaces are particularly popular, though recent trends show signs of price stabilization.

Verona, Veneto

Known for its romantic allure from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is perfect for day trips across Northern Italy. Historic center properties can be expensive but offer spectacular cultural experiences and ease of travel.

Turin, Piedmont

Turin’s significant business and cultural stature make it a prime destination. It’s known for its wealth of monuments, universities, and proximity to the Alps, making it a great location for ski enthusiasts and families.

The regions of Italy

Northern Italy

Liguria

If you’re torn between the beach and the mountains, Liguria offers both. The coastline boasts beautiful villages and beaches, while inland valleys present better property value for buyers. It’s a popular holiday destination, ideal for those seeking a vibrant social scene.

Lombardy

Home to Italy’s most impressive lakes, Lombardy is ideal for lakefront properties. The proximity to Milan offers a blend of urban convenience and natural serenity. Properties in smaller towns offer good value and strong rental potential.

Veneto

Beyond Venice, Veneto offers ski resorts, lakes, medieval towns, and wine regions. Each area has unique cultural and scenic attractions, and properties vary widely in price and style.

Trentino-Alto Adige and Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Known for their ski resorts and natural beauty, these regions attract buyers seeking both outdoor activities and peaceful living. The dramatic mountain scenery and opportunities for hiking and skiing make these regions highly desirable.

Emilia Romagna

Emilia Romagna, once a hidden gem, is now gaining recognition for its affordability and charm. Coastal properties around Rimini are popular, while inland towns offer cultural richness and affordability.

Piedmont and Val d’Aosta

Skiers will delight in the top-notch resorts in Piedmont and Val d’Aosta. The region also offers beautiful lakefront towns and vibrant city life in Turin, renowned for its festivals and museums.

Central Italy

Lazio

Lazio combines beautiful countryside with proximity to Rome. The region is often overlooked but offers affordable rural homes and historic charm. The capital city of Rome, with its rich cultural institutions, offers prime properties with high rental income potential.

Tuscany

Tuscany remains a top choice for its iconic landscapes, rich culture, and expat-friendly communities. While certain areas can be pricey, regions like Lunigiana and Maremma offer more affordable homes.

Le Marche

Offering peace and quiet, Le Marche’s hinterland is becoming increasingly popular among homebuyers. Coastal regions also attract buyers, while inland towns present excellent renovation prospects.

Umbria

Known as “The Green Heart of Italy,” Umbria is rich in history and natural beauty. The region attracts those seeking a healthy lifestyle with outdoor activities and local cuisine.

Southern Italy

Abruzzo

Abruzzo offers rugged landscapes, national parks, and low-cost properties. It’s perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking affordable homes near the Adriatic coast.

Campania

Campania is home to iconic coastal towns like Sorrento and Amalfi. The stunning architecture and sunny climate make it highly desirable, though some areas are among Italy’s most expensive.

Puglia

Puglia attracts buyers for its stunning coastline, historic towns, and affordable properties. The Salento region is particularly popular for its Mediterranean climate and friendly communities.

Calabria

Calabria offers unspoiled countryside, beautiful beaches, and excellent flight connections, making it a rising destination for affordable properties.

Sicily

Sicily boasts hot weather, beautiful landscapes, and fascinating historical sites. Its diverse regions offer a range of property prices, making it accessible to many buyers.

Sardinia

Sardinia offers both exclusive resorts and affordable rural areas. The island’s stunning beaches, warm climate, and relaxed lifestyle attract a variety of homebuyers.

Best places in Italy for natural beauty

Lakes

Lake Garda and Lake Como in Lombardy are popular for their stunning scenery. While properties on the water’s edge can be expensive, homes further inland can offer good value.

Mountains

Regions like Valle D’Aosta, Piedmont, and Trentino-Alto Adige offer spectacular mountain scenery and skiing opportunities. Properties can range from luxurious chalets to affordable renovation projects.

Countryside

The lush countryside of Umbria, Tuscany, Le Marche, and Emilia-Romagna offers beautiful farmhouses with rolling hills and vineyards. Southern regions like Puglia also offer affordable country retreats in a sunny climate.

Near the coast

Italy’s extensive coastline offers numerous seaside options, from the Ligurian coast to the Amalfi coast and islands like Sicily and Sardinia. Seaside properties vary in price, with smaller villages offering more affordable options.

Best places for holiday homes in Italy

Italy offers diverse locations for holiday homes, from scenic mountains and lakes to historic cities and beautiful coastlines. Renting a property in these areas ensures you experience local life while exploring potential homes.

The cheapest places in Italy to buy a home

Regions like Abruzzo, Le Marche, Basilicata, Calabria, Molise, and Sicily offer low-priced properties. Even popular regions like Tuscany and Umbria have affordable areas in the far north and south.

Best places for rural living in Italy

For a peaceful countryside lifestyle, regions like Tuscany, Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, Umbria, and Le Marche offer charming farmhouses and villas surrounded by nature. These areas provide a retreat from busy city life.

Best places for expat life in Italy

Expats often flock to regions like Rome, Lombardy, Tuscany, Umbria, Puglia, and Sicily. These areas offer vibrant communities, work opportunities, and a blend of local and international culture.

Best places for a peaceful life in Italy

Regions like Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Molise, and Basilicata offer serene landscapes and a slower pace of life. These hidden gems provide affordable properties and a relaxed lifestyle.

Best kid-friendly places in Italy

For families, regions like Sorrento in Campania, Rome in Lazio, Bardolino in Veneto, Genoa in Liguria, and Spoleto in Umbria offer kid-friendly attractions and activities, making them ideal for raising children.

Best places for winter sports in Italy

From the Italian Alps to Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy offers excellent skiing and outdoor activities. Regions like Valle D’Aosta, Piedmont, Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto, and Abruzzo provide top-notch ski resorts and year-round recreational opportunities.

What type of property should you buy in Italy?

Determining what kind of property suits you best involves considering factors like property type, size, condition, and usage. This helps narrow down your options effectively.

What condition will your dream property be in?

New build

New build properties offer low maintenance, making them ideal for living or renting out. Competition for rural new builds can be high.

Restored or renovated

These properties are popular for their excellent condition and charm, often located in scenic areas. They tend to be more expensive.

Renovation projects

For a budget-friendly option with potential, renovation projects are ideal. Be prepared for a significant commitment in terms of time and money.

Appartamento in vendita – Flat for sale

City apartments, palazzo apartments, hilltop village apartments, country apartments, and sea or lake view apartments offer various styles and amenities.

Casa in vendita – House for sale