Buying process

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is provided for general information purposes only and may not reflect the most current legal developments.

For many young Italians, buying a first home at 30 was seen as a realistic goal in 1996. In 2026, the picture looks different.

The number of rooms, the presence of ancillary spaces such as garages or cellars, and the condition of the building’s systems are among the factors covered by a property valuation report.

A widely used instrument in real estate sales, the escrow deposit is a sum of money the buyer pays to guarantee the purchase offer presented and, more importantly, their intention to successfully complete the transaction. The amount is deposited with a neutral third party, such as a notary or real estate agency; it is not released to the seller until the offer is accepted or the preliminary contract is signed. Upon signing, it becomes a confirmatory deposit.

Italy’s residential property market set a new milestone in the first quarter of 2026.

Buying a house for €1 in Italy is an unusual but genuine opportunity. It appeals not only to Italians looking to swap city life for a quieter village setting, but also to international buyers who want to experience life in Italy without a huge upfront property cost.

Buying a home in Italy is a common goal, but getting a mortgage can be challenging, particularly under strict lending criteria. So, can you get a mortgage in Italy with a foreign salary? Yes, but it’s often more complex than applying with Italian income. Banks typically require a permanent employment contract, a strong income profile and a lower loan-to-value ratio (LTV). In practice, this usually means a deposit of 20% to 40%.

How do foreigners access mortgages to purchase a first or second home in Italy? In recent years, demand for Italian properties from foreign citizens has increased significantly.

In real estate transactions, the declaration of cadastral compliance is a crucial step. Included in the notarial deed, it confirms that the actual condition of the property matches the cadastral details on record.

Dreaming of a sun-soaked terrace in Tuscany, a stone farmhouse in Umbria, or a sea-view escape in Sicily?Buying property in Italy has become one of the most searched lifestyle moves for foreigners — from retirees and remote workers to investors seeking European real estate opportunities.But while th

idealista now lets you search for properties across multiple Italian areas at once. Quickly select towns, neighbourhoods, or provinces in one search, exploring more options without losing precision, directly via the app.

Italian households are spending a significant share of their income on housing, according to the latest study by idealista, Italy’s top property portal. In the fourth quarter of 2025, renting a three-room apartment cost, on average, 28% of household income — down slightly from 30% in late 2024.

Private islands in Italy sound wildly extravagant, but a handful do quietly pop up on the market now and again. Most are steeped in history, come with planning strings attached, and are far more about stewardship than flashy luxury.

When buying or selling property in Italy, one of the most common questions is about real estate commissions.

Discover the real costs of buying property in Italy in 2026. From hidden fees and taxes to notary and agent costs, learn how to budget smartly and make your Italian dream home a reality.

Even as Italy’s real estate sector embraces new technologies, payment processes remain largely traditional, with digital methods accounting for just 7 per cent of transactions.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has announced a bold plan to make housing more accessible for young couples in Italy, highlighting the government’s belief that strong families are at the heart of a prosperous nation.

As October winds down, it’s time to trade cold, grey days for sun-soaked mornings on Italy’s stunning coastline.

Buying property in Italy is a dream for many international buyers. But what if you want to sell your current home and buy a new property in Italy at the same time?

Dreaming of a second home by the sea in Italy?

Italy is renowned for its captivating landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious lifestyle. If you’re considering purchasing a luxury property in this stunning country, the process may seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and guidance, it can be a smooth and exciting journey.

Renting or buying a home is not an easy decision for those living in or moving to Italy.

Is buying a house by the sea in Italy worth it? This is a question you probably ask yourself if you have savings to invest, perhaps in a second property intended for holidays.

Italy, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for many looking to buy or rent a home.

Selling a property on your own, without an agency, is not an easy task and you need to evaluate the time, effort and stress you need to invest, especially if you're not an Italian native and selling property in the country for the first time.