Your Dream Home in Italy – A step-by-step guide for foreign buyers
Looking for a holiday home or a long-term investment in Italy? This guide walks you through the entire process — from where to look, to navigating Italian bureaucracy, to moving in.
✔ Designed for foreign buyers
✔ Real, practical advice
✔ Insider tips from local property experts
Where to Start
Step 1: Define Your Dream
- What lifestyle do you want?
- How often will you use the property?
- What’s your budget (including fees and taxes)?
“Always factor in 10–15% extra costs (notary, taxes, agent fees).”
Where to Look
Step 2: Regions & Lifestyle
| Region | Ideal for | Climate | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuscany | Vineyards, countryside | Mild | Romantic, rustic |
| Emilia-Romagna | Food, culture, value | Temperate | Authentic, relaxed |
| Lake District | Views, outdoor life | Cold winters | Elegant, calm |
| Sardinia | Beaches, peace | Warm & dry | Wild, remote |
| Sicily | Culture, affordability | Hot | Vibrant, historic |
| Big Cities (Milan, Rome) | Urban lifestyle | Variable | Lively, international |
Where to Search
Step 3: Online Platforms & Local Help
- Portals: Idealista.it, Immobiliare.it, Gate-away.com
- Agencies: Look for those experienced with foreign buyers
- Off-market: Many gems are never listed—ask locals
- Tip: Don’t rely only on listings—often outdated. Ask for video tours.
What to Watch Out For
Step 4: Red Flags & Pitfalls
- Old rural homes = potential structural issues
- Lack of heating (many homes not built for winter)
- Bureaucratic delays
- Language barrier
Solution Box:
✔ Get a bilingual real estate agent
✔ Hire an independent surveyor
✔ Work with a local caretaker (like us 😉)
Making the Offer
Step 5: The Buying Process in Italy
- Proposal of Purchase (Proposta d’Acquisto)
- Preliminary Contract (Compromesso)
- Pay deposit (usually 10%)
- Final Deed (Rogito)
- Signed in front of a Notary
- Transfer of keys & ownership
Documents You Need:
- Fiscal code (Codice Fiscale)
- Valid passport
- Proof of funds
- Italian bank account (optional, but useful)
- Translation or bilingual assistance
Not Speaking Italian? No Problem!
Tips:
- Use bilingual professionals
- Some agencies offer English-speaking services
- Let a local caretaker assist you step-by-step
How We Help
Manage My Home is your trusted partner in Italy
We assist with:
✅ Pre-purchase property visits
✅ Liaising with agents, surveyors & notaries
✅ Managing your home after purchase
✅ Solving problems and avoiding scams