Find a property in Italy
For those who love Italy, narrowing down the choice of property in a country beautiful from the lakes in the north all the way to Sicily in the south, is not easy.
Even if you love a particular area – Tuscany, for example – that may still offer many options. Tuscany is, after all, the size of Wales.
Finding the right property in Italy is about first deciding exactly what you want, and your budget, and then narrowing down your options.
Using online property portals in Italy
When buying a property in Italy, the easiest way to narrow down the type of property you’re looking for is to see what’s already out there. In today’s day and age, the internet makes that very easy.
Here are three well-known property portals to get you started:
If you have an idea of what you’re looking for or a budget in mind you’d like to stick to, you can filter on most property portals to narrow your search. Additionally, you can search for specific features such as rural, coastal or new-build properties.
Attending overseas property events
Attending property exhibitions can also be beneficial for overseas buyers in Italy. These events give you the opportunity to meet a variety of developers, agents and legal experts, all under one roof or even better, virtually, so you can attend from home.
You can gather information, ask questions, and even discover exclusive deals. Keep an eye out for international property exhibitions that feature Italian estate agents.
Browse upcoming events for buyers in Italy on Your Overseas Home
Viewing and selecting properties
If you’re unsure where to buy, read up on different areas in Italy. Many property portals and guides offer insights into various towns and cities, helping you understand the local market and lifestyle.
Get the guide: Download your free copy of How to Buy in Italy today to start planning your property purchase
Once you’ve shortlisted some properties, make an enquiry via the portal and you will be put in contact with the estate agent. This is generally a better option than simply searching for estate agents online, as the portal should have vetted the agents on their site.
When you’re ready to buy, it’s time to plan a viewing trip, also known in the USA as a scouting trip. Speak to the agent listing the property about the best time to go before booking your flight. Spring and autumn are popular, but don’t feel you cannot go outside of these seasons – just check with the agent.
When planning your viewing trip you will have the option of using one estate agent, possibly even using subsidised accommodation with them, or going it alone. Here is how they vary…
Estate agent and developer viewing trips
Agent-led viewing trips are often the easiest option for international buyers. To arrange one, simply contact a trusted, reputable estate agent in the area you wish to buy and chat to them about your requirements. You’ll likely have one or two consultations with them before choosing properties to view. It normally takes a couple of weeks to arrange these bookings as resale properties are often still occupied or they may need seller permission to enter. Estate agents can provide valuable insights into the properties and the local area. Some agents might be expats themselves and can offer a unique perspective.
It’s not unusual to make more than one trip to Italy to view properties or to take time to consider your next steps once home. Remember, you shouldn’t feel pressured to act and can continue with the property purchase once back in your home country, should you wish.
If you’re buying an off-plan home or a new home that’s not yet complete, an inspection trip may be offered to you by the developer. They may assist with your accommodation and flights too. The downside of these trips is that there is often little time for personal exploration or to view properties on your own.
Independent viewing trips
If you’re organised and confident in what you want from your Italian property, you can make your own arrangements with various developers and/or estate agents to visit while in Italy. In most cases, the estate agent will offer to pick you up from your hotel or accommodation and take you out for the day, browsing potential properties or development sites.
An independent trip can seem like a lot more work, but you’ll be in total control and get to take things at your own pace. Plus, you’ll have time to explore neighbourhoods as well as properties as you won’t be bound by a tight schedule.
Giving your estate agent as much notice as possible of your scheduled trip will allow them to prepare suitable properties that match your requirements. However, should you find yourself in a part of Italy you like the look of, why not just pop into the local estate agent and have a chat?
Using a buyer’s agent to find a home in Italy
If you’re struggling to find what you’re looking for on property portals, why not employ a buyer’s agent? Experts in navigating the Italian property market, they can find the properties for you and negotiate on your behalf over the price. Given their local knowledge and contacts, they can even save you money.