Buy Property in Italy
Why Local Guidance
What Is Different About Buying Property in Italy
Different contract structure, different checks, different deadlines.
Language and Law
Purchase contracts, cadastral records and building permits are in Italian. Translation and classification are part of the service.
Price Assessment
Prices in Tuscany vary by a factor of three between Chianti, Val d'Orcia and the Maremma — for the same square meterage. Reference values are known and negotiations are conducted accordingly.
Property Due Diligence
Ownership, cadastre, permits and potential encumbrances are checked with lawyer and surveyor before an offer is made.
You recognize the right property immediately. My work starts long before that.
Andrej Avi
What Is Covered in the Buying Process
- 01
Property Search and Shortlisting
Properties are researched based on defined criteria and a shortlist is compiled.
- 02
Document Review
Land registry, cadastre, building permits, energy certificate. Technical and legal review is coordinated.
- 03
Coordination with Professionals
Notary, lawyer, architect, geometra — on the ground in the region.
- 04
Purchase Contract and Notary
The lawyer prepares the contract. Accompanied through the notary appointment.
- 05
After the Purchase
Utility transfers, insurance, tradespeople. On request, introductions to architects and property management.
Who This Is For
Who This Is For
Second Home
A private retreat in Italy. No rental, no yield pressure.
Investment
Agriturismo, boutique hotel or holiday complex with a yield target.
Retirement
Permanent move to Italy. Residency, infrastructure, local orientation.
Holiday Rental
Personal use in summer, rented out the rest of the year. Permits and requirements are reviewed before the purchase.
FAQ
Questions About Buying Property in Italy
Do I need an agent to buy in Italy?
Legally, no. But the Italian process differs significantly: different contract structures (Proposta, Compromesso, Rogito), cadastral checks, local regulations. An agent in Italy coordinates notary, lawyer and surveyor, reviews documentation and negotiates in Italian. This saves time, prevents costly mistakes and catches risks that are difficult to assess from abroad.
How does the buying process work?
Three steps: First, the Proposta d'acquisto (written offer with a deposit of 1-3%). Then the Compromesso (binding preliminary contract, typically 10-20% as Caparra confirmatoria). Finally, the Rogito (notarial deed transferring ownership). From offer to completion: typically 30 to 90 days.
What are the additional costs?
Registration tax (Imposta di registro): 2% for primary residence or 9% for second homes, calculated on cadastral value. Notary: EUR 2,000-4,000. Agency commission: 3-4% plus 22% VAT. Lawyer: EUR 500-1,500. Surveyor/geometra: EUR 500-1,000. Total: approximately 10-12% on top of the purchase price.
Can foreigners buy property in Italy?
Yes. EU citizens have the same rights as Italian nationals. For non-EU nationals (US, UK, Switzerland), the principle of reciprocity applies, fulfilled for most countries. You need a Codice Fiscale (Italian tax number), obtainable at the Italian consulate or the Agenzia delle Entrate.
How long does a purchase take?
From first viewing to Rogito: typically 2 to 4 months. The transaction phase (Proposta to Rogito) takes 30 to 60 days. Properties with outstanding cadastral or planning issues may take longer.
Contact
First Conversation
A short call: what you are looking for, whether working together makes sense.