Types of homes in Italy
With 2,000 years of architecture to choose from, in a variety of locations and prices, Italy offers a smorgasbord of options to prospective property buyers.
Read on to discover the distinctive features and styles of Italian homes and find your dream property.
Apartments vs houses
With a rich architectural heritage and a penchant for preserving the old, Italy offers a plethora of apartments and houses, each with their unique charm and character.
Apartments or ‘appartamenti’, are especially popular in Italian cities and towns. They range from compact studios perfect for single occupants, to spacious multi-bedroom units suitable for families. Many apartments in Italy are a part of historic buildings, offering a blend of modern comforts with period features like vaulted ceilings, ornate mouldings and mosaic floors.
Houses come in all shapes and sizes. At one end of the spectrum, you have traditional farmhouses or ‘case di campagna’ that exude rustic elegance with their stone walls, wooden beams, and terracotta floors. On the other end, you’ll find chateaux or ‘castelli’, magnificent mansions that bear witness to Italy’s opulent past. Liberty Villas are grand houses built in an art nouveau style, especially around Lake Como.
Then there are townhouses, or ‘case di città’, that offer the best of both worlds – the convenience of city living combined with the space and privacy of a detached home.
Rural vs urban properties
The choice between rural and urban properties depends on your lifestyle preferences.
Rural properties, such as farmhouses and chateaux, offer tranquillity, space and the chance to live in the heart of the Italian countryside surrounded by flora and fauna. Rural properties can be far off the beaten track, so it’s always worth checking how far away the closest town or city is, to weigh up how far away essential amenities are. These homes are typically built in traditional styles, with features such as large fireplaces, exposed brick walls and often have ample outdoor space for vineyards or olive groves.
Urban properties are all about location. Whether it’s a chic apartment in the heart of Rome or a quaint townhouse nestled in a Tuscan town, urban properties put you within easy reach of amenities, attractions and vibrant Italian culture.
Once you’ve prioritised your essential amenities and the lifestyle you’d like to lead, it’s time to choose the location that best matches your requirements.
New builds vs historic homes
Italy is a nation that cherishes its history and this is evident in its property market. There’s an endless supply of historic homes, from centuries-old farmhouses to grand chateaux, that are full of character and charm. These properties typically feature traditional architectural elements, such as stone walls, wooden beams and terracotta tiles. If you’re looking to invest in an older home in Italy, make sure you’re aware of the common pitfalls when buying a historic Italian home before you sign on the dotted line. Be especially careful if considering the famous one-euro houses of Sicily, and know your renovation project (rustico) from your ruin (ruvino).
Meanwhile, new-build homes offer a unique blend of contemporary aesthetics and traditional touches that pay homage to the country’s architectural heritage. This harmonious mix of old and new is one of the reasons why new builds are gaining popularity among property buyers in Italy.
New build properties in Italy come in a variety of types, from detached villas to townhouses and apartments. These homes are often characterized by spacious, open-plan living areas designed to maximize natural light. Large windows, glass walls, and skylights are common features, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Tips for buying an off-plan home in Italy
Buying an off-plan property can be a great way to secure a new home at a competitive price. However, it’s essential to do your research and understand the process. Here are a few tips:
- Research the developer: Look into the developer’s track record. Have they delivered on their promises in the past?
- Understand the contract: Make sure you fully understand the contract, including the completion date and what happens if there are delays.
- Check the plans: Pay close attention to the floor plans and specifications. Make sure you are happy with the layout and the quality of the fixtures and fittings.
- Get legal advice: It’s always wise to seek independent legal advice before signing any contracts.
Be aware that nearly all modern Italian property is sold freehold, so you will own a proportional part of the freehold for the new build complex and will be financially responsible for general maintenance in the shared areas. It is possible to find new build properties in rural areas, but, as there are fewer, competition can be fierce.
Depending on the stage of construction you register your interest in a new-build property, there’s opportunity to get a good deal on a new home in Italy. Early buyers usually get the first pick of the lot, while late buyers could be attracted by discounts.