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How to Buy a House in Italy – the land of rolling hills, sun-dappled vineyards, and homes so charming you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto the set of Under the Tuscan Sun. Buying a house in Italy sounds like a dream—and it absolutely can be—but like any good Italian meal, there are a few steps (and maybe a little chaos) involved. Welcome to part one of our series on how to buy a house in Italy, where we’ll guide you through the process with plenty of tips and tricks. Check out our video below for even more insights into how to buy a house in Italy, and don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel so you never miss a moment of la dolce vita.

1. Types of Houses: From Ruins to Renaissance

Italy offers a smorgasbord of property types. Love the idea of waking up in a medieval village? Or perhaps you’re dreaming of a farmhouse surrounded by olive trees. Whether it’s a “rustico” (rustic ruin begging for a makeover) or a ready-to-move-in villa, knowing your options is the first step. Spoiler: some homes will come with a history older than your country, so be ready for a story or two.

2. Location, Location, …Gelato?

Choosing the right location isn’t just about geography—it’s about lifestyle. Are you a seaside soul, a mountain maven, or a countryside connoisseur? Remember, picturesque towns like Florence and Rome might come with a hefty price tag, while lesser-known gems (looking at you, Marche) offer stunning properties at a fraction of the cost. Bonus: they’ll likely come with a friendly local gelateria.

3. Online Searches vs. Real Life

Scrolling through property listings while sipping your espresso is fun, but the reality might not always match the glamour shots. (Surprise! That “panoramic view” might include a factory.) Online searches are a great start, but nothing beats visiting properties in person. Our advice? Embrace the adventure—and bring comfortable shoes.

READ MORE: BEFORE YOU BUY A HOUSE IN ITALY – DO THIS!

4. How to buy a house in Italy: The Property Viewing Process

In Italy, property visits can feel a bit like speed dating: you’ll likely see several houses in one day, often with a real estate agent who’s juggling multiple clients. Be prepared to act quickly if you find your dream home. And yes, it’s perfectly acceptable to fall in love at first sight. Just maybe keep your emotions in check until you’ve asked about the roof.

5. To Survey or Not to Survey?

Do you really need a survey? In one word: YES. Italian houses are beautiful, but they can come with surprises—and not always the good kind. Think cracks in the walls, a leaky roof, or a “minor” plumbing issue that’s been around since the Renaissance. A survey can save you thousands of euros and a lot of stress. Or, as we like to say, it’s cheaper than therapy.

6. Should You Hire a Lawyer?

The short answer: absolutely. The long answer: navigating Italian bureaucracy is a bit like making risotto—it takes patience, precision, and a willingness to stir through a lot of paperwork. A lawyer can help with contracts, ensure your rights are protected, and guide you through the complexities of how to buy a house in Italy. Plus, it’s always good to have someone on your side who knows the difference between a CILA and a SCIA (trust us, this will make sense eventually).

Watch the Full Video for More Tips

Want to hear more about how to buy a house in Italy? Check out our video where we dive deeper into these tips and share a few real-life stories from our own house-hunting adventures. We promise laughs, insights, and maybe a dramatic tale or two. While you’re there, don’t forget to hit that subscribe button. We’re sharing everything you need to know about how to buy a house in Italy, buying, living, and renovating in Italy—and a little bit about the quirks of Italian life.

Dreaming of Moving to Italy?

If you dream of moving or retiring to Italy, why not join us at our Move to Italy Retreat? Held every spring at our beautifully restored farmhouse in Le Marche, Italy, this retreat offers the perfect opportunity to learn from experts, explore stunning properties, and enjoy the best of Italian food, wine, and hospitality. Make your dream a reality—discover more and sign up today!