Real Estate in Italy

"We used a realtor selected by the company. After looking at around 50 apartments (one deal fell through and we had to start all over again) we were lucky enough to find an apartment in the exclusive old city. We were very fortunate," said one expat in Bergamo.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Italy is usually situated in a cosmopolitan area with easy access to local attractions and amenities. Expat homes and apartments typically offer welcoming open-spaced layouts with modern appliances and amenities that enhance the traditional Italian lifestyle. Although the interiors may need some updating, wooden flooring and high ceilings are often a feature of expat homes and apartments in Italy. Most expat residences feature balconies overlooking views of the surrounding city or countryside," said one expat in Italy.

"We live in a one bedroom apartment 90 sqm. While the layout for the apartment is typical the location is not. We intentionally chose to live in a more touristy, city-type area because of the nearness of restaurants, bars, shops, museums, etc," remarked one member in Bergamo.

"We have a large country property with a 200 year-old stone farmhouse on it that we restored. We have a 100% organic 'azienda agricola' with 500 producing olive trees and 250 citrus trees with other ornamental trees and two natural water springs on it. It is heavenly. The other expats in the area are a mix of apartment dwellers and countryside lovers like us (there are just a few of us)," explained one expat living in Catanzaro, Italy.

"It really depends where you look. I bought a delightful old stone row house type of home, 4 bed, 2 bath with a large terrace and glorious view in a 500 yr old building for $54,000. It's definitely livable but could use upgrades. I also bought a penthouse 1 bedroom apt, tiny but with a great view and wrap around balcony on three sides one block outside of the old town in Vicenza with elevator and a garage parking spot for $110,000," said one person in Italy.

"The average cost of housing in Italy varies depending on the size, location, and type of property; however, generally speaking, prices tend to be more expensive in cities such as Rome and Milan than in rural areas. Additionally, prices can vary significantly depending on whether one wishes to buy or rent," said one expat who made the move to Italy.

"Our housing costs are higher here only because of the higher rate of electricity. Electricity is very expensive here. I don't know the average rate of housing here," explained one foreigner living in Bergamo, Italy.

"Well, property taxes here are incredibly low. At least compared to my native California. Houses and even apartments can be very expensive here though. There are places here in Catanzaro, apartments, overlooking a parking lot asking over 400,000 EURO! We bought our beautiful property (just outside of Catanzaro and about 15 minutes to the Mediterranean sea) with a lot of land and producing orchards and rebuilt the home spending around 600,000Euro. However, going outside the city into a rural community, even 10km outside of town, you can pay half of that. Here, neighbours are an issue and there are many lawsuits when they cannot get things sorted out (especially in our area where there are many lawyers who are unemployed). We got lucky and have a large piece of property with no problems. Here, in the country you can get a good deal. If my property were in California, we would be paying well over 1,000,000 dollars easily! We enjoy our life in the country here and wich those thinking of coming here the same good fortune," said one in Catanzaro.

"If you are looking to experience the Italian lifestyle, buying a home in Italy may be the best option. Not only can you enjoy the beauty and cultural atmosphere of Italy, but buying a home can also be a great investment in your future. However, if you are planning to stay in Italy for a short period of time, renting a home might be the better option for you. Renting allows you to explore the country without making a long-term financial commitment, giving you the flexibility to move around if needed," explained one expat living in Italy.

"We paid an attorney in Rome to ensure that the process was easy. He was expensive, but well worth the money. Without good language skills one is at the mercy of the system. Our attorney stood the ground for us when necessary," said one person in Minturno.

"1. Check with Italian government agencies to determine the legality of buying in a particular area. 2. Understand the local regulations and restrictions on foreign ownership. 3. Obtain a lawyer who is familiar with Italian property purchase laws and regulations. 4. Know the exact location of the property and the usable area. 5. Obtain a surveyor to validate the measurement of the property and any boundary issues. 6. Understand the recent taxes and bills paid on the property and the anticipated future taxes and bills. 7. Understand if there are any existing mortgages, liens or other debts that have to be paid in order to complete the purchase. 8. Make sure you have the funds available for the purchase and for any associated costs and fees. 9. Know when the sale is expected to be completed. 10. Understand what kind of insurance is needed to protect the property from potential losses," said one in Italy.

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Italy. Non-EU citizens must obtain a permit from the Italian Ministry of Interior before they can purchase property in Italy. EU citizens are allowed to purchase property in Italy without a permit. However, they must register the property with the Italian Land Registry and obtain a tax identification number. Additionally, foreign investors may purchase property through a company registered in Italy," explained one foreigner living in Italy.

"When renting a home in Italy, the typical appliances that come with the property include a refrigerator, stove, and clothes washer. Many homes also come equipped with air conditioning units and internet access. Some homes may also offer dishwashers, while others might provide access to a communal pool or gym. Additional amenities such as access to a shared garden or balcony may also be available," said one expat in Italy.

"Expats can search for homes in Italy by looking online for real estate listings, contacting local real estate agents, and searching for rental properties on websites such as Airbnb. Additionally, expats can look for homes in Italy by attending open houses, networking with other expats, and asking friends and family for recommendations," said one foreigner living in Italy.