The real estate market in Italy provides a variety of investment opportunities as well as a large selection of homes in various settings, from rural homes in the northern Italian mountains to contemporary city apartments and beachfront properties. Many people aspire to move to Italy, buying real estate, and enjoying the vibrant culture and way of life there. The process of buying a property in a foreign nation, however, might not always be simple. This article will specifically discuss whether or not a foreign buyer of real estate in Italy is eligible to apply for a mortgage.
Interestingly, in Italy, over 70% of people own a property; this is due to a culture of passing property down to family members. In addition to this, high rent in some areas can make purchasing a property more attractive as the investment can be paid off quickly, and if you do not plan on living in Italy permanently, you can potentially use the property to earn an income. So, what do you need to know in order to get started?
What are the requirements to apply for a mortgage?
Both EU and non-EU nationals must provide evidence of identification in order to apply for a mortgage, but non-EU nationals must also present their permit of stay (permesso di soggiorno).
It is important to note that, as long as they satisfy the general criteria, the majority of Italian banks will grant mortgages to non-residents. However, banks can also be very careful, so you must offer enough proof to show that you are a low-risk borrower.
Inferring from this, there are a few crucial factors that can favorably affect the result of a mortgage application. For instance, if a foreign national has lived in Italy for three years previous to buying a property, mortgages are more likely to be granted. The so-called “ricongiungimento familiare” (family reunification) is another significant element. In other words, the probability of getting a mortgage will rise if a foreign national moves to Italy with the intention of living there with some of their family members.
How do you apply?
Due to the economic crisis and the new Anti-Money Laundering Regulation (Regolamento Antiriciclaggio) Italian banks and credit institutions have developed a three-stage process in order to grant a mortgage. As explained by Idealista, arguably one of the most well-known real estate companies operating in Italy, Spain and Portugal, the following steps apply to both Italian and foreign citizens:
- The bank studies the potential client’s credit history. The applicant is required to submit several documents, among these an ID card or passport, proof of address (e.g., a copy of a recent utility bill), the property’s contract of sale, proof of income (e.g., the last three paychecks, tax return documents and employment contracts), and a credit report. The bank will then assess these documents in order to determine the individual’s eligibility to apply for a mortgage.
- A surveyor appointed by the bank will evaluate the property’s conditions to certify that it is mortgageable, and to determine the value on which the mortgage rate will be based. This information will be listed on the Evaluation Report drafted on the day of the inspection.
- If all of the requirements are met the bank will issue the applicant a formal mortgage approval.
It is worth pointing out that as you set your total budget, you will need to take a few taxes and fees into account, namely the registration tax, VAT, the land registry tax, the notary, the translator and the estate agent’s fees. More information about these can be found here.
How long does it take to get a mortgage?
According to the data reported by Idealista, it takes from 20 to 60 days to for a mortgage application process to be completed. There may be instances in which it may be possible to make a formal offer on a property by stating that the buyer will request a mortgage if the offer is accepted. However each case is unique and thus it is worth seeking the assistance of a real estate and mortgage specialist.
How much are properties in Italy?
The price of a property in Italy varies greatly depending on its location and the property type. For example, you could pay as little as €25,000 for an apartment in a small village in Sicily, but you should expect to pay much more if you go property hunting in cities like Milan or Venice, for instance. Finding the perfect place to purchase property in Italy will always be a balance of budget, lifestyle and location but if you contract an agent or a lawyer in Italy they will be able to provide you with a number of options, as well as with guidance and support in order to avoid any potential scams. If you would like to learn more about the mistakes to avoid when purchasing a property in Italy, please click here.
In conclusion, this article has sought to provide a few useful pieces of information one should know when applying for a mortgage. However, please note that each application is unique and therefore, if you would like to speak to one of our representatives to understand which options apply to you, do not hesitate to contact info@italianrealestatelawyers.com. We will be glad to help you.
If you move to Italy and you are interested in renting a property rather than buying it, there are a few aspects related to renting that are worth considering. In fact, Italian real estate law and bureaucracy can be hard to navigate, especially if Italian is not your mother tongue, and confusion often arises when discussing complex topics, such as subletting.
An overview
Is it legal in Italy for someone to sublet a property? The quick response is yes, but only in particular circumstances.
The Italian Civil Code, which regulates subletting, states that a tenant may only sublet a property with the owner’s consent. Total subletting and partial subletting are the two types of subletting.
Total subletting, i.e., renting out the entire property to a third party, is never permitted unless specifically authorized by the owner and spelled out in the contract. If you sublet a property without consent, the owner will have the right to request the eviction of the subtenant. On the other hand, partial subletting is typically permitted unless the owner directly prohibits it, in which case it must be stated in the tenancy agreement. As a result, if the lease does not expressly prohibit subletting, a tenant renting a two-bedroom apartment, for example, may sublet one of the bedrooms to a third party, however the tenant must communicate the sublessee’s name and personal details to the landlord. It is important to note that property owners in Italy tend to be against subletting as they cannot select the person to whom the property will be rented.
Types of contracts
If you plan on subletting the property you are renting, you will need to have a good understanding of the type of tenancy agreement you hold. In fact, subletting is only allowed in long-term rental agreements, which are categorized as follows:
- The “4+4 contract” establishes that at the end of the first four years, the tenancy agreement will be automatically extended for another four years, unless one of the parties wishes to terminate the agreement.
While the tenant can leave the property at any point by giving the landlord six months’ notice, the landlord cannot terminate the agreement during the first or second four years of the tenancy agreement, unless otherwise specified.
- The “3+2 contract” lasts three years and it is renewed automatically for an additional two years at the end of the first three years (unless the parties decide to terminate the agreement or mutually agree to alter the terms of the agreement). The tenant can terminate the agreement by giving the landlord six months’ notice. The landlord can terminate the contract only after three years, and under specific circumstances.
On the other hand, if you have a short-term rental agreement (contratto di locazione a uso transitorio) or a student contract, subletting is not allowed.
Finally, it is important keep in mind that the subtenant has the same responsibilities as the tenant. However, since the subletting agreement is signed by the tenant and the subtenant, the tenant’s obligations towards the landlord remain unvaried. As a consequence, the subtenant will pay his/her rent to the tenant, who will then transfer it to the landlord.
How to sublet
Once you have your landlord’s consent, you can ask the subtenant to sign a contract which will need to specify the duration of the contract, the amount of rent due each month, and the areas of the property which the subtenant is entitled to use. This information will also need to be shared with the landlord by certified mail or email. Regular emails do not have legal validity.
If you are subletting a property for more than a month you will need to register the contract with the sublessee at the Italian Revenue Agency (Agenzia Delle Entrate) and pay the corresponding tax within thirty days from the start of the agreement.
If you would like to learn more about the topic or you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our real estate experts, do not hesitate to contact us at info@italianrealestatelawyers.com.
Many individuals from all over the world dream about moving to Italy in order to live a peaceful and slow-paced lifestyle. As we discussed in previous articles, purchasing a property in Italy is a worthwhile investment, however, the process may appear daunting and intricate for those venturing into the Italian real estate market for the first time. For instance, many potential buyers may be concerned about transferring considerable amounts of money abroad as well as finalizing the transaction. This article will outline detailed information about the payment methods which are available to foreign citizens who would like to purchase a property in Italy.
How to transfer money to Italy from abroad
When purchasing a property, many buyers pay via wire transfer and thus send their funds from their bank accounts in their home country to Italy. Please bear in mind that commission and conversion fees apply, and these vary depending on the conversion rate between currencies, which is subject to fluctuations. At the time of writing this article, 1 US dollar equals to 0.92 Euros. In addition to commission fees, many banks may charge administrative fees to process the transfer. However, there are online money transfer platforms such as wise.com, for instance, which allow individuals to transfer money between countries at competitive rates. In order to wire funds to any bank account in Italy, you will need the following information:
- The recipient’s first name and last name
- The recipient’s IBAN (= International Bank Account Number)
- The recipient’s SWIFT code, also known as “BIC” (= Bank Identifier Code)
What are IBANs and SWIFT codes?
The IBAN code is used to identify a specific account number. An IBAN is similar to a routing number in the United States. The IBAN is composed of 27 alphanumeric characters and it looks like the example provided below:
IT 33 X 01005 03200 XXXXXXXXXXXX
The IBAN consists of the following digits:
- 2 letters identifying the country (“IT” stands for Italy);
- 2 numbers for the international control code, also referred to as “CIN EUR” (= Control Internal Number in Europe);
- 1 letter for the national control code, known as “CIN” (= Control Internal Number);
- 5 numbers identifying the bank according to the “ABI” code (= Italian Banking Association);
- 5 numbers identifying the bank’s branch according to the “CAB” code (= Codice di Avviamento Bancario);
- 12 alphanumeric characters related to the bank account (or conto corrente in Italian).
A SWIFT code is a security code created by the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication, from which the acronym derives. A SWIFT code is required for all international wire transfers and it identifies a banking institution. The code consists of several alphanumeric characters and it usually contains 8 to 11 digits. A SWIFT code looks like the example provided below:
UNCR IT MM (XXX)
The digits refer to the following:
- 4 letters identify the banking institution’s abbreviated name (in this example “UNCR” stands for UNICREDIT S.P.A., one of the most popular banks in Italy);
- 2 letters indicate the country (“IT” stands for Italy);
- 2 letters or 2 numbers refer to the bank’s location (“MM” stands for Milan);
- 3 optional characters identify the bank’s branch (if there are three X like in the example above or the digits are absent, it means that the SWIFT code is linked to the bank’s headquarters and not to a specific branch).
A SWIFT code is essential to transfer money internationally and it ensures that the process is carried out safely.
Purchasing a property via an international wire transfer
Generally, the payment for a property must be formalised before the notary during the final deed of sale, which is when both the buyer and the seller sign the final contract of sale. Although you may send the deposit (or Caparra in Italian) to the seller in order to secure the property you have decided to purchase, we recommend remitting the final payment to the notary a few days before the final deed of sale to allow the time for the funds to reach the notary’s bank account. In fact, the notary usually has a dedicated bank account whose purpose is to keep the buyers’ funds secure. This is a useful service that the notary provides specifically for foreign buyers who do not have a bank account in Italy. In essence, this option allows foreign citizens to send the funds via an international wire transfer a few days before the final deed so that on that day the notary can transfer the funds received directly to the seller. Therefore, if you cannot travel to Italy and open a bank account, you can transfer your money to the notary’s bank account and the notary will then send the funds to the seller on your behalf. It is not advisable to send the funds to the seller prior to the final deed of sale as all payments must be formalised on the day on which the deed of sale is signed by the seller and the buyer (or by the individual representing the buyer via a Power of Attorney).
Purchasing a property via a cashier’s check
Although you can cash a foreign check into an Italian bank account quite easily, it is very unlikely that a seller will accept an international check as they are hard to verify. In fact, as a general rule, personal checks are never accepted if you are purchasing a property in Italy. Instead, buyers must use the so-called assegno circolare (cashier’s check or certified check) to complete the purchase. This is the safest and most common payment method used to purchase a property because it is created by the bank and it certifies that the amount will be paid to the recipient. Therefore, if you wish to pay for your new house by using a cashier’s check, the easiest way to do so is to open a bank account in Italy and to request a check from the bank. If you choose this payment method, on the day of the final deed of sale you will need to hand a cashier’s check to the notary and one to the seller to close the sale and complete the property purchase.
Opening a bank account in Italy
As mentioned earlier, you can remit the payment for a property through an international wire transfer. However, if you can travel to Italy before the closing date, we recommend opening an Italian bank account. A few Italian banks may allow you to open a bank account even if you are not a resident of Italy or if you do not have Italian citizenship, however this depends on each individual’s specific circumstances. Once you have opened your account, you can decide to pay the funds for your property either by requesting a cashier’s check or by making the payment via a national wire transfer.
Opening a bank account in Italy is also useful after you have purchased your property in order to pay utility bills, for example. In fact, recurring automatic payments are more efficient than single payments made by credit or debit card or by postal order (bollettino postale).
If you wish to learn more about the purchasing process or you would like to enquire about our tailored services, do not hesitate to contact our team of real estate lawyers at info@italianrealestatelawyers.com.
The Italian real estate market offers many investment opportunities, making the so called Stivale – literally “The Boot”, due to Italy’s shape – one of the best places to purchase property. If you are thinking of buying a house in Italy but you do not have a clear idea of the costs and the taxes involved, and you are wondering whether there are any incentives that might apply to you, this article will provide you with an overview of the information you need to know. Please note that this article focuses specifically on real estate transactions between individuals. Real estate transactions between individuals and construction companies will be discussed in another article.
An insight into the costs involved in purchasing a property
When purchasing a property, the buyer will need to bear the following costs regardless of whether he or she is an Italian citizen:
- mortgage (if applicable),
- registration and cadastral taxes,
- the cost for the surveyor to verify the structural conditions of the property (if necessary),
- the notary’s fees – these are paid to the notary who ensures that the purchase complies with all real estate laws and regulations. The notary’s fees vary depending on the type of property which is being purchased and its location.
- Additionally, both the seller and the buyer need to pay the real estate agent’s commission fees if a real estate agency is involved in the transaction. This fee is usually around 2-3% of the purchase price.
Both the notary’s fees and the real estate agent’s commission fees are subject to VAT. The standard VAT rate in Italy is 22% and it is payable on sales of goods or services.
Taxes and incentives
The taxes to be paid on a property in Italy vary depending on whether the property purchased is the buyer’s first or second house. In particular, there are a number of tax breaks that apply to individuals who purchase their first house.
As a general rule, there are three taxes that a buyer needs to pay when purchasing a property:
The “Imposta di Registro”: this tax amounts to 2% of the property’s cadastral value [1]if the property is the buyer’s first house in Italy. On the other hand, it amounts to 9% if the property is the buyer’s second house. However, an exception is made for Italian citizens residing abroad, who are registered with the AIRE and who buy their first house in Italy; in fact, they only need to pay the 2% tax even if they decide not to reside in the property full time. Foreign citizens are entitled to first home benefits if they establish their residence in Italy in the same municipality where the property purchased is located within 18 months from the purchase date. In order to access the benefits, the property should be classified as habitation and it should not be a luxury property as luxury homes are subject to the 9% tax.
- The “Imposta catastale” (Cadastral tax or land registry tax): this is a fixed tax which amounts to €50.
- The “imposta ipotecaria” (mortgage tax): this too is a fixed fee which amounts to €50.
There are many incentives that are available to purchasers who meet the requirements set by Italy’s Revenue Agency, the so-called “Agenzia delle Entrate”. For instance, the “first home” bonus for individuals and couples who are younger than 36 years old includes a number of tax breaks to encourage young people with an average income below €40,000 to purchase a property that will become their primary house. This bonus allows for the exemption on mortgage and cadastral taxes and it makes it easier to access the guarantee fund (“fondo garanzia[2]”) for first homes. The bonus also includes other benefits, such as:
- a 50% reduction on notary fees;
- a tax credit (on deeds subject to VAT) equal to the VAT paid.
The “first home” bonus for individuals who are younger than 36 years old is valid for deeds signed between May 26, 2021 and December 31, 2023.
With regard to foreign citizens, it is worth pointing out that whether or not a foreign citizen who does not reside in Italy can purchase a property in Italy is based on the so-called “reciprocità”, i.e., the reciprocity conditions between Italy and the country of which the individual is a citizen.
In conclusion, if you are considering purchasing a property in Italy, it is important to have a good understanding of the costs and the taxes involved in the purchasing process. As explained above, these may change depending on whether the property you choose to buy in Italy is your first or your second house and on the type of property that you have chosen to purchase. In addition to this, it is also important to have a good understanding of the tax incentives and benefits which might be available to you.
If you wish to learn more about the purchasing process and you would like an expert’s assistance, do not hesitate to contact our bilingual team of real estate experts at info@italianrealestatelawyers.com. We will be happy to help you purchase your “Casa Dolce Casa”!
[1] The guarantee fund was introduced by the Italian government in 2013. Its purpose is to replace the guarantees which are often expensive, and which a bank requires to disburse a loan.
[2] The cadastral value of a property is the tax value of a property. In other words, it is a piece of information that is used to calculate a number of taxes that are linked to the purchase and sale of real estate.
Italy is one of the most attractive countries in the world due to its wonderful cuisine, fascinating history and culture, and stunning landscapes which vary from one region to the other making the Bel Paese a very special and diverse country to live in.
In 2017 the Italian government introduced a flat tax regime which consists of a flat tax charge of €100,000 per tax year, in lieu of standard tax rates for high-net-worth foreign individuals who are willing to relocate to Italy and to establish their residency there. So what does the regime entail specifically? This article will provide you with an insight into the Flat Tax regime and how to apply.
What is “residenza fiscale”?
This term refers to a place where an individual is registered for tax purposes. In order to be considered a resident for tax purposes, an individual must be registered at the “Anagrafe”, the registry office in a municipality’s town hall for at least 183 days, or 184 in leap years.
Arguably, one of the reasons why many people decide not to establish their residency for tax purposes in Italy is due to the fact that Italian income tax rates are quite high among the OECD. Nevertheless, in 2017 the Italian government introduced a new Flat Tax regime for high-net-worth individuals.
Who can apply for the Flat Tax regime?
This aim of the regime is to encourage investments and attract high-net-worth individuals (HNWI), who have not been Italian tax residents for at least 9 out of the 10 years preceding their move to Italy. In essence, the benefit consists of the possibility for these individuals who transfer their tax residence to Italy to apply a substitute flat tax, which is equal to €100,000, to their foreign income. This can also be extended to their family members who will need to pay a flat tax of €25,000 each.
This tax provision is valid for a 15-year period only.
What does the Flat Tax regime apply to?
It is worth mentioning that the Flat Tax regime is applicable to the following:
– a salary
– rental income
– financial compensations
– earnings from self-employment
– dividends.
How do you apply?
In order to have access to this regime, taxpayers need to obtain an advance tax ruling from the “Agenzia delle Entrate”, (Italian Revenue Agency).
The above-mentioned advance tax ruling (in Italian “Imposta Anticipata”) enables resident and non-resident taxpayers to prevent litigations with the Revenue Agency by requesting a preventive, written clarification of how the tax provisions are applied. When the taxpayer submits this enquiry, he or she will need to provide detailed information about his or her specific circumstances. In particular, the individual will need to submit a valid form of ID and his or her Italian tax code, and indicate the jurisdiction or jurisdictions under which the individual was a tax resident prior to the year in which he or she applied for the flat tax regime.
The Revenue Agency will then have 90 days to reply and an additional 60 days if further details or documentation are missing. If the Revenue Agency does not reply within the above-mentioned time limit, the taxpayer’s interpretation of the taxation that applies to his or her case is considered to be accepted.
Taxpayers are free to terminate the flat tax regime at any time; however, their foreign income will be taxable at progressive tax rates. Furthermore, if the payment of €100,000 is not provided, or the taxpayer renounces his or her Italian tax residency, the flat tax regime is discontinued.
Finally, it is worth pointing out that if you are a high-net-worth individual and you are planning on relocating to Italy you might want to consider applying for the elective residence visa or the investor visa as the flat tax regime does not come with any specific visa.
In conclusion, if you are a high-net-worth individual who is considering relocating to Italy, and you do not want to pay ordinary taxes on your foreign income, applying for the flat tax regime may be the best option for you.
If you would like further information about this regime or if you are seeking assistance to apply, please contact our team at info@italianrealestatelawyers.com. We will be happy to assist you!
If you are planning on purchasing a property in Italy you will need to take a number of factors into consideration in order to make an informed decision. If you are not very familiar with Italy’s geography and the cultural differences among its regions, there are various websites which rank the best cities to live in, the most sought-after locations, and they also list the types of properties and their prices. Drawing from Idealista’s 2022 ranking, this article will analyze the most expensive locations to buy a property in Italy.
LUXURY SEASIDE DESTINATIONS
According to Idealista’s ranking, the ten top most expensive and most popular locations to buy property in Italy in 2022 are seaside destinations. The top step of the podium is occupied by Forte dei Marmi; the second place is occupied by Pietrasanta, also known as the “Athens of Italy”. Pietrasanta is considered the capital of artistic marble manufacturing in Italy. As a matter of fact, artisans from all over the world go to Pietrasanta to work side by side with skilled artisans who have passed their abilities from one generation to the next. Forte dei Marmi is a luxury resort and unlike many other seaside destinations in Italy, it has maintained its allure over time, attracting wealthy Italians and foreigners from all over the world. The average price for a house in Forte dei Marmi is €1,416,294.
The third place is occupied by Alasso, which is on the Ligurian coast in the province of Savona; the average price for a house in Alasso is €453,215. Alasso is famous for its Muretto, a wall which is decorated with colorful ceramic tiles that have the autographs of famous film stars; it is also famous for Budello, the town’s main street and shopping hub, as well as for its breathtaking natural views.
The top ten most expensive places to buy a property in Italy are tourist resorts such as Lerici, Riccione, Desenzano del Garda, Camaiore and Cervia, which all share the same exclusive features: luxury hotels, high-end boutiques and jet-set visitors.
CHARMING AND TIMELESS CITIES
Although purchasing a property in a city is relatively expensive, prices outside the top 10 most sough-after locations are much more affordable, starting from €268.778 on average for a property in Padova to €338.661 for a property in Modena. Florence and Milan are among the most expensive cities to buy property with an average asking price of €356.14 and €351.438, respectively. Finally, the average price for a property in Venice is €433.640. Cities like the ones listed above are famous because they are among the main art cities in Italy and they attract thousands of tourists each year.
ITALIAN PICTURESQUE VILLAGES AND MID-SIZED TOWNS
If you prefer to live in a mid-sized town or in one of Italy’s picturesque villages nestled in the countryside far away from the hustle and bustle of big city crowds you will be spoiled for choice.
There are dozens of cities and towns in Italy which are worth exploring and which are enchanting, such as Trento, which may not have the fame and glory of cities like Florence or Venice, but it is full of charm and youthful vibes. Trento is the main city in Trentino, an autonomous region in Italy with special status and financial autonomy which borders with Switzerland and Austria. Due to its location, it is very different from other regions in Italy, in fact, it is famous for its magnificent natural landscapes, its impressive mountains and its lakes. In this sense, Trentino is a must for those who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities. The region of Trentino Alto Adige is considered one of the richest regions of Italy, hence the higher prices for properties. In November 2022, an average of €2,929 per square meter was requested for residential properties for sale, with an increase of 5.21% compared to November of 2021 (€2,784/m²).
On the other end of the spectrum is Palermo, which is filled with gorgeous architecture, most of which is Arab-Normal style. The less touristic feature of Palermo has kept the city affordable in comparison to other cities in Italy and the cost of living is also low. The average price for a house in Palermo is currently below €1,200 per square meter.
Finally, many foreign tourists are attracted by the beauty of some well-known and picturesque Italian towns. It is nearly impossible to choose just one as there are many medieval cities, mountain retreats, and vibrant beach towns on the list. For instance, Tuscany has always attracted many foreign investors who tend to prefer properties which are far away from the chaos of bustling city centers. Foreign investors generally look for properties which are surrounded by beautiful landscapes and vineyards where they can enjoy breathtaking sunsets. Volterra is one of the most famous towns in Tuscany and it has some of the most beautiful medieval churches in Italy. Volterra is set on a hilltop between the Cecina and Era valleys and it is the ideal place to learn about the area’s rich history. Florence and Siena battled over control of Volterra over the centuries. The average price of a property in Volterra in 2022 is €1,772 per square meter, which is slightly lower compared to the average price of a residential property in Tuscany, which was about €2,500 per square meter in November 2022.
In conclusion, the prices listed above should not discourage you from looking for your dream house. In fact, if your heart is set on living in a lovely rural area, you may consider purchasing a property in other beautiful regions in Italy. It is important to remember that the further way from the seafront you go, the cheaper the property, and the same applies to big cities.
If you would like some help with finding the property that best suits your needs, feel free to contact us at info@italianrealestatelawyers.com for a free consultation.
If you have always dreamt of purchasing a house in Italy, you may have started looking at real estate listings, imagining your new life in the Bel Paese. However, many potential buyers, especially foreigners, feel disoriented when they approach the Italian real estate market for the first time. We at Italian Real Estate Lawyers are here to help you overcome any challenges and avoid any potential financial losses. This article will describe the most frequent pitfalls that buyers often encounter and the most common mistakes to avoid when purchasing a property in Italy. In addition to this, the article will outline a few recommendations in order for you to fulfil your dream of purchasing a property in Italy.
The first mistake that many people make is overlooking investment property guidelines. Without an understanding of the real estate market, many assume that housing prices in Italy are constantly on the rise as in the U.S. However, it is worth pointing out that real estate prices in Italy often remain stable for many years. In order to make an informed decision you can research statistical data regarding the area where you intend to purchase a property. The website of the National Institute of Statistics (Istat), for example, is an excellent source which provides extensive analyses and publications on a wide variety of topics, such as demographics, urbanism, economy, education and any other relevant factors related to a specific area in Italy. Another useful website is the one of the Agenzia delle Entrate (Revenue Agency), which publishes news about real estate investments. Finally, we also recommend you analyze and compare selling prices by viewing real estate listings posted online. By doing this, you will become more familiar with the range of prices which are offered in relation to the property’s characteristics, such as square footage, location, condition and amenities.
The second most common mistake that people make is choosing the wrong real estate agency. It is advisable for potential buyers to check if the real estate agency offering the housing listings is legit, reliable and reputable. Regrettably, it is not uncommon to find fraudulent real estate agents. The best piece of advice we can offer is to check online reviews about real estate agencies which are located in the area of your interest. On the other hand, if you choose a property which is owned by a private seller, you will not need a real estate agency and thus you will save money on the real estate agent’s commission fee. However, as a downside, you will need to communicate directly with the seller, unless you have a real estate lawyer by your side. Thus, choosing the right real estate professionals is a pivotal step in the journey towards purchasing a house.
The third most common mistake is failing to carry out due diligence and overlooking residency requirements. The current owner may have debts or an ongoing mortgage; on the other hand, if there is a lien on the property, the ownership rights might be limited. In addition to this, you need to verify the property’s status from both an urbanistic and cadastral point of view. In fact, there are properties which cannot be used to reside or to live in. This is the case for apartments which can only be used as office spaces, for instance. Similarly, when buying a plot of land, you will find that there are various types; some plots of land are destined to agricultural purposes only, for example, and thus do not allow construction works. Therefore, it is highly advisable to reach out to a real estate lawyer to check the status of the property or the plot you are interested in in order to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
The fourth mistake that many buyers make is overlooking additional purchasing costs and taxes. As a matter of fact, we strongly advise to take into consideration extra fees and to calculate them in advance. Please bear in mind that if you do not pay taxes, you will risk paying heavy fines. When you purchase a house, you will need to pay several taxes, such as the notary fees, the real estate agency fees, VAT (if the house is new), the registration tax, the cadastral taxes, and the mortgage insurance, if applicable. Overall, these taxes are usually around 10 percent of the total purchase price, but the exact amount may vary depending on multiple factors. Furthermore, taxation will vary depending on whether you purchase the property from a private owner or a construction company. Taxes may also be calculated depending on the region in Italy where you purchase a property. Finally, you should also consider after-sale expenses, such as the ones related to renovation works, furniture, utilities and other fees we outlined in our previous article. Therefore, you should not underestimate additional expenses when you purchase a property in Italy.
As far as mortgages are concerned, it is important to study the advantages and disadvantages of mortgages featuring either fixed or variable rates. While the former involves a fixed, yet often higher amount of payment which does not change over time, the latter is unpredictable as it fluctuates depending on current interest rates. Although the variable option may be appealing, it can become extremely risky when interest rates rise to their highest. Therefore, it is advisable to consider your variable mortgage fees at their highest in order to make a fair prediction of your overall expenses. Secondly, we suggest you choose a mortgage that is spread over a limited period of time. In fact, a mortgage that is longer than 25 years may cause you to pay high interest rates. Thirdly, we recommend you choose a bank carefully based on the best mortgage they can offer. In fact, you can save a considerable amount of money by choosing the lowest and most competitive mortgage rates.
Finally, the fifth and final mistake is accepting a price without negotiating. In Italy, the common percentage of negotiability is around 10 percent and the margin varies depending on the property’s conditions. If a property remains unsold for several years, for instance, you may be able to negotiate the asking price. On the other hand, if the house features highly desirable characteristics in terms of square footage, position and amenities you might not be able to negotiate the price. When the property features an extremely quality-price ratio, the demand is higher and thus the seller may not be willing to sell it for less of its original value. Therefore, you should not be afraid of negotiating and you should also take all the time you need to evaluate both the advantages and the disadvantages of buying a specific property.
If you are thinking of purchasing a property in Italy and you would like to learn more about the potential mistakes one can make throughout the purchasing process, feel free to contact us at info@italianrealestatelawyers.com.
An increasing number of Americans have been flocking to Europe in recent years. Among the reasons are lower costs of living, affordable housing prices and a quieter and more relaxed lifestyle. According to a recent report drafted by Sotheby’s International Realty, a luxury real estate brand founded in 1976 which operates worldwide, France, Italy, Greece, Spain and Portugal are the top countries where international buyers tend to purchase property. This article will discuss the differences between the American and the European housing markets and it will examine the factors that have led many Americans to relocate to Europe and to Italy in particular.
As reported by the global real estate group Knight Frank, one of the world’s leading real estate consultancy firms, searches for French properties by US-based buyers increased by 27% in the first five months of 2022 compared to 2021. Italy and France are the most attractive countries for US buyers; however, Greece too witnessed a 40% increase in real estate transactions between April and June 2022 compared to 2021.The number of American citizens in the Iberian peninsula and in Portugal in particular, has increased by 45% compared to 2021, and Spain, which has the largest American population in Europe, has also witnessed a 13% increase in the number of citizens who have relocated to the country. Finally, according to a study about the role of investors in the European housing market, the Dutch economy has grown substantially since 2013 due to foreign direct investment coming from the U.S. The U.S. firm Blackstone, for instance, owns approximately 117,000 houses in the Netherlands. Therefore, it is clear that there is a growing trend in U.S. investment in Europe and in the housing market in particular.
Jerry Howard, the CEO of the National Association of Home Builders, has claimed that the U.S. are heading toward a housing recession because they are experiencing a supply shortage, which is leading to an increase in construction costs and consequently in housing prices. On the other hand, property prices in Europe are much more affordable compared to the U.S. In fact, while property prices in the hottest U.S. markets jumped by 30% between early 2021 and the first quarter, prices in Paris and London rose just 5%, and in Florence, they dropped by 1.6%.
Some people argue that the most significant factor driving U.S. citizens to Europe is the plummeting value of the euro. However, there are other important factors, such as a range of tax incentives, the potential to work remotely and the desire to enjoy a quieter and more relaxed lifestyle. In this sense, Italy’s pleasant climate, its new digital nomad visa which was introduced recently, its cuisine and history have been contributing to driving up demand from house hunters overseas.
In addition to relatively cheap housing, culture and lifestyle, Italy is known for its variety of landscapes: Tuscany’s rolling hills, Apulia’s breathtaking beaches and Sicily’s historic towns, for instance, attract thousands of tourists each year. Italy is also the second most popular destination for American students studying abroad. Italian universities offer a wide variety of courses which are available in English and they also offer a number of cultural and academic exchange programs in other EU member states. In fact, Italy’s position at the heart of Europe is also strategic and you can travel to almost any capital in Europe in just a few hours.
It is also worth pointing out that many U.S. citizens are choosing to relocate to Italy or to purchase a holiday home there due to their ancestral ties. As a matter of fact, in recent years, hundreds of Americans with Italian ancestry have decided to pursue Italian citizenship by descent and to relocate to Italy. In fact, if you are a non-EU citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Italy but you will only be allowed to stay in the country for 90 days. On the other hand, if you are an Italian citizen, no limitations or time restrictions apply. It is worth mentioning that purchasing a property in Italy does not entitle non-EU citizens to stay in Italy beyond the 90-day limit.
Even though relocating to a country with a different language and culture might seem scary, adapting to a new lifestyle in a new property in Italy will soon become a thrilling journey if you get qualified and trusted advice when scouting Italy’s real estate market.
If you are thinking of relocating to Europe and to Italy in particular, and you would like to learn more about Italy’s regions and get a greater insight into the wide variety of choices that Italy’s real estate market has to offer, feel free to contact us at info@italianrealestatelawyers.com.
No matter where in Italy you decide to live, you will find breathtaking landscapes, vibrant city centers and welcoming communities. One of the most interesting features of Italy is how vastly different its regions are from one another. For instance, living in the Northern region of Trentino Alto Adige is very different compared to living in Sicily, and climate is not the only reason. Indeed, Italy’s twenty regions vary greatly not only in terms of climate, landscape and customs and traditions, but also in terms of infrastructure, services, cost of living and property prices. While there is no “best” region to live in, when the time comes for you to decide where you should purchase your property, you will want to make sure that the property you want to buy meets all your needs. If you are taking your first steps in the Italian real estate market, please continue to read this article as it will provide you with some useful tips and pieces of advice to keep in mind when choosing the perfect region to move to.
While it is easy to fall in love with almost any part of Italy, a clear vision of your needs and preferences will allow you to narrow down your research and to focus only on the regions which are compatible with your desired lifestyle. Firstly, would you prefer to live in a dynamic metropolitan city, in a tranquil suburban neighborhood or in a dreamy countryside villa? Furthermore, will you be working remotely? If you plan on staying in Italy for a short period of time and you will be working remotely, for instance, your needs will be different compared to someone who is looking to retire to a quiet area in the long run. Additionally, you may want to enjoy the well-known Italian “Dolce Vita” by travelling to different regions. This option will require you to think about the most convenient means of transportation in order to travel around Italy, be it by public transportation such as trains, ferries and airplanes, or by car, motorbike or bicycle. In conclusion, how much you want to travel and how you plan on doing that will influence which part of Italy you choose to purchase a property.
If you would like to live in a dynamic metropolitan city then Lombardy, Lazio and Emilia Romagna are among the perfect regions to live in. These regions feature major cities such as Bergamo, Brescia, Milan, Bologna, Modena and Rome, which offer a good work-life balance. Indeed, not only do these cities offer many job opportunities and services, but they also offer excellent schools, universities, hospitals, cultural institutions, food festivals, shows, concerts and art exhibitions. Furthermore, big cities in these regions have excellent transportation links and they host several national and international airports. These positive aspects are reflected in the housing market prices, which are rather high, nevertheless, due to the fact that both locals and foreigners consider these areas to be very popular, purchasing a property here constitutes a valuable investment opportunity, especially if you are considering reselling your property, renting it or opening a B&B.
If you wish to live in one of the most glamorous and breathtaking regions in Italy, we highly recommend Tuscany. This area features internationally renowned cities such as Florence, Lucca and Pisa, which are rich in art, history and culture. Tuscan picturesque hilltop towns have attracted a multitude of foreigners over the past centuries and as a result, there are well-established expat communities in the area. Arguably, a solid network can offer support to those individuals who decide to move abroad for the first time. Furthermore, the region is located in the central part of Italy, making it possible to reach both Northern and Southern regions fairly easily, either by car or by public transportation. For instance, you can jump on a train and visit many cities such as Venice, Turin, Bologna and Naples. It comes as no surprise then that Tuscany’s celebrity-like status results in its real estate market prices being on the higher end of the spectrum. However, this also means that purchasing a property in Tuscany is a great investment because it is likely to gain more value over time. Furthermore, if you would like to rent your property, there will always be thousands of tourists looking for accommodation.
Finally, if you prefer an affordable yet dreamy location near the seaside, we suggest visiting Apulia (Puglia). The region is located in the south of Italy and it is famous for its stunning beaches and crystalline water (have you ever heard of the “Maldive del Salento”?). Apulia is the best option for those who wish to live at a slower pace while enjoying the region’s fascinating folklore and delicious traditional cuisine. Furthermore, its historical, artistic and cultural heritage is impressive and unique, and in recent years, Lecce’s baroque architecture and Otranto’s castle have attracted thousands of tourists worldwide. There are growing expat communities in Valle d’Itria and around Brindisi; additionally, the region features two international airports in Brindisi and Bari, respectively. However, if you decide to live in Apulia you will need to rely on a car as your primary means of transportation. Together with slow internet connection in some remote areas, these factors might be potential issues to take into account, especially if you are planning on working in this region. Nevertheless, the low cost of living creates attractive investment opportunities for potential buyers since the quality-price ratio of properties is remarkable. Therefore, whether you are looking for a villa at the seaside or a traditional Trullo, we encourage you to consider scouting Puglia’s real estate market in order to find exceptional deals.
If you are interested in moving to any of these regions (or anywhere else in Italy!) and you would like some help in order to identify the perfect property for you, contact us for a free consultation at info@italianrealestatelawyers.com.
Many foreigners may have seen picturesque historical city centers as well as large metropolises across Italy either in person or through pictures, but many might not be familiar with less touristy areas or with remote and small villages in Italy. If you have travelled to Italy and fallen in love with the country, and you have decided to purchase a property there, you might already know which specific geographical area to choose. However, you might still need to consider which neighborhood specifically is a good match for your needs and desires, be it in the city center or in the suburbs. In order to guide you through this uneasy choice, this article will describe Italian suburbs and it will analyze their characteristics in comparison to U.S. suburbs. Finally, the article will outline the main advantages of living in a suburb in Italy, especially with regard to requalified areas.
Italian suburbs may not be what you expect. In fact, contrary to common beliefs, Italian peripheral city areas often lack independent houses; instead, there are many apartments in tall buildings and condominiums. On the other hand, villas and cottages can often be found in small towns and villages, far from major cities. This is the reason why spacious two-floors houses that possibly feature a cozy front porch, a flourishing backyard and even a wide pool are quite rare in these neighborhoods, unlike in other countries, such as the U.S. Thus, it is very likely that if you choose to purchase a property in the Italian suburbs, this will mean selecting a flat.
The conformation of Italian suburbs is linked to economic factors. In fact, city centers in Italy often feature more costly real estate properties than suburban areas since the latter are deemed less desirable. Conversely, U.S. houses may be very expensive even in suburbs, depending on the specific city. Nevertheless, it is worth noticing that Italian suburbs are still well-equipped with essential amenities, such as shops, markets, cafés and public transportation. On the contrary, U.S. suburbs are often purely residential and therefore people need to rely exclusively on their cars to reach stores and public spaces. Therefore, apartments located on the outskirts in Italy can be considered interesting investment opportunities, even if they are generally thought to be less appealing due to their lower economic value.
Choosing to purchase a property in the suburbs rather than in a city depends on your needs, lifestyle and preferences. Arguably, living in a safe neighborhood for minor children is among the most relevant factors when choosing an area for many families, for instance. Indeed, many families prefer to reside in quieter and greener areas where children can play outdoors, far from traffic and pollution. On the other hand, there are also many families who wish to live closer to city centers, which offer several recreational services, sport activities and useful amenities for both children and parents. Thus, in some cases families may favor a dynamic, active and social lifestyle over a tranquil and rural way of life.
However, the differences between cities and suburbs are not as sharp as you may think. In fact, it is worth noticing that many Italian municipalities are adhering to innovative initiatives that aim to bring new life to their suburbs. Specifically, city governments are encouraging construction works to build and renovate residential neighborhoods which are located just outside city centers. In particular, in many municipalities, construction companies are renovating unused properties and building new apartments, shopping centers and other facilities. This will attract aspiring buyers who are interested in investing in areas where the quality of life is higher.
Drawing from this, one of the first and most compelling examples of redeveloped areas in Italy is the case of Milan2, the well-known renovated neighborhood within the metropolitan area of Milan. In the seventies, the municipality agreed to face the city’s overpopulation by designing and building a new residential area in Segrate, in the north-east periphery of the city.
The neighborhood was embellished with beautiful architecture, functional apartments, numerous cycle lanes, pedestrian zones and parks. The success of Milano2 subverted the reputation of Milanese suburbs, offering an ideal alternative to people who preferred being close to the city center yet far from traffic, pollution and high criminal rates. Therefore, this case exemplifies how municipalities can work towards making peripheries not only more liveable, but also more attractive for potential investors.
Another important advantage of choosing to live in the suburbs is the proximity to the city center. In fact, renovated peripheral neighborhoods in Italy are usually relatively close to the city center. Thus, even if you live in a suburban area, you can reach the city center relatively easily either by using public transportation, or by cycling or walking. Therefore, you may choose to settle in a suburban district where you can enjoy a nice, comfortable and quiet home, whilst being close to the city center and not having to spend too much money on commuting.
In conclusion, besides your personal taste and desires, when planning on purchasing a property in Italy it is definitely worth checking the local governments’ plans and projects for developing areas and suburbs as there might be newly built apartments and houses in affordable and modern areas which are worth investing in. Indeed, purchasing a property in Italy, either in a city center or in the suburbs, constitutes an invaluable opportunity, a life-long investment and a way to experience life in the country which is known for its “Dolce Vita”.
Please feel free to contact us at info@italianrealestatelawyers.com for support in selecting and purchasing the house of your dreams in Italy.