How to Buy Property in Italy

If you are thinking of moving to Italy it makes sense to do your research. Knowing plenty about each region of Italy will help you to find the right part of Italy to move to. Research will tell you what kinds of houses are available and roughly how much you can expect to pay for them in various parts of Italy.

If you are buying property in Italy it is especially important that you use an experienced and reputable property agent. You will be relying on their experience to find you property that meets all your requirements and one that is legal. Some firms have agents based in the UK as well as Italy. They can be a good option if you cannot get to Italy much to search for property yourself.

Using an estate agent who speaks perfect Italian is important if you do not speak Italian yourself. Also, make sure that your estate agent speaks English well as well. That way you reduce the risk of confusion. Don’t simply assume the property buying process is the same as in your home country. On the surface it may seem similar to you, but is actually quite different. Double check everything. In both countries you need a survey, but what is included in an Italian survey and a UK survey are very different.

The first stage of the house buying process in Italy is the making of a verbal offer. If this offer is accepted your real estate agent will draw up an initial contract. You and the seller then sign that contract. The contract can be signed by you and then sent to the seller or be signed at a meeting which you both attend. At this point you have to pay a 10% deposit.

Within one month of signing this contract, the vendor will register the purchase. A notary may be brought in to make sure the contract is sound and will then arrange the final deed which will ultimately assign you the property’s right of title.

On average the cost of buying property in Italy is 15% of the value of the property. Some firms claim to be able to do it for less, but it makes sense to approach these firms with caution. There are no short-cuts to buying property in Italy and missing out a step can leave you not being the legal owner of the property.