F.A.Q

Yes you can and we strongly encourage you to visit Italy! But while you may locate property on your own, our expertise allows us save you valuable time and effort. Multiple realtors and phone calls may be necessary just in order to see all the offerings in one single village. Also, we have found that as many as half the properties are found by word-of-mouth (for example, the friend of a friend’s cousin). These properties don’t appear on any list, but are often better-priced and more negotiable. We’ve established relationships with realtors there who can streamline the property hunt with their inside knowledge. 

Once you have selected a property and want to proceed with a purchase, anticipate up to 6 months to actually obtain ownership. During this time, you must set up an Italian bank account, select a real estate attorney, and we would encourage you to also consult with an immigration attorney on Italian law regarding your ability to stay in Italy long-term. The closing will take place in Italy and they will require you to pay for an interpreter to be present. Any liens on the property must be settled that day, often delaying the procedure.

Not exactly! The biggest (and most frustrating) part of property search in Italy is that they have no equivalent to the MLS (multiple listing service) that Americans enjoy. Instead of a single agent able to show you all properties in one town, each agent shows you only 1-2 properties and then a different agent shows you 1-2 properties, etc. You must contact multiple Italian-speaking agents just to see all the properties in a single location. It’s highly inefficient and time-consuming.

When we find properties matching your criteria, we will take photos of the property both inside and out. We will also take photos or a video of the village itself. Are there restaurants or coffee shops, bars or a grocery store? Is there bus or train service? We’ll provide everything you need to know in determining if a property is right for you.

Taxes and professional fees will be additional to the purchase price. Four main taxes you will pay are: stamp duty, cadastral tax, land registry tax and VAT tax and other fees. Typically, the additional costs can add anywhere between 10-15% of the original purchase price. In addition, professional fees will be added and these include the notary fees for checking if there are any liens on the property, the estate agent who usually charges 3% of the price, but this is split between the buyer and seller, and fees for a translator (must be present for any language interpretation). They charge between 250-350 euros. If you choose to hire an estate attorney, these fees are negotiable and we recommend you interview several before choosing one. Their fees will vary depending on their experience and level of services required.

Yes, Airbnb can be very profitable in Italy, particularly in the right location. Listings can be optimized with professional photos and properties that focus on unique experiences such as Tuscan views or traditional villas. Targeting digital nomads and retirees with monthly discounts can increase occupancy, as can hiring a property manager. If you’re interested in finding Airbnb-friendly properties, we can assist you by recommending the best areas in which to invest.

Americans are allowed to stay 90 days out of any 180 day stretch without needing a visa within the Schengen Area. This refers to the 29 countries, including Italy, that have abolished their border controls at their mutual borders. After 90 days, they must return to a non-Schengen country for 90 days before being allowed to return. This requirement makes buying a property in Italy the perfect thing to do with a sibling or friend! That way when your 90 day visit ends, their 90 day visit starts so that the place is in continual use. In this manner, you can buy a place in Italy and only pay half the purchase price while your partner pays the other half!