Buying a property in Italy can raise many questions, particularly if you are purchasing a home abroad for the first time.

Established in 1987, Casa Travella has decades of experience helping international buyers find property in Italy. Below are answers to some of the questions we are most frequently asked about viewing properties, arranging a purchase and preparing for life in your Italian home.

1. Is the Buying Process the Same as in the UK?

No. The process of buying a property in Italy is different from that in the UK and other countries.

One positive aspect of the Italian system is that, once a purchase proposal has been accepted and becomes legally binding, both buyer and seller have contractual obligations. This can provide greater certainty, although the precise position depends on the terms of the agreement.

It is important to have the documentation checked by an independent legal professional before signing, as an accepted offer may create binding obligations.

For further information, please read our guide to legal support when buying property in Italy.

2. How Do I Arrange Property Viewing Trips?

We would ask you to contact us before booking your trip to Italy, if possible.

We can provide directions, help arrange a convenient viewing schedule and suggest suitable places to stay in the area.

If you have already booked your travel, we will do our best to organise viewings around your existing arrangements.

For more advice on planning your visit, please see our Property Viewing Trips in Italy page.

3. How Many Properties Will I See?

We normally suggest arranging a morning or afternoon appointment, starting at approximately 9:30 or 10:00 in the morning, or 2:30 or 3:00 in the afternoon.

Depending on the location, size and distance between properties, you may be able to view several homes during each appointment.

One appointment does not necessarily mean viewing only one property!

For larger villas or properties located some distance apart, fewer viewings may be more practical, allowing you enough time to explore each property properly.

4. What Happens When I Decide That I Want to Buy?

If you find a property that you would like to purchase, please contact Casa Travella as soon as possible.

We can discuss the next steps with you and liaise with our colleagues in Italy about the property and the proposed purchase arrangements.

If you are still in Italy, it may be possible to begin preparing the necessary documentation during your visit. Otherwise, we can discuss how to proceed when you return home.

You can also let our local colleagues know that you are interested in a particular property and that you will be speaking to Casa Travella.

Before signing any purchase proposal or paying a deposit, we recommend obtaining independent legal advice. Please refer to our Italian property buying process guide for more information.

5. What If I Need Work Doing on the Property?

Casa Travella has contacts in Italy who may be able to assist with a wide range of property-related services.

These include architects, surveyors, local tradespeople and companies supplying furniture, appliances and other fittings for your Italian home.

If you are considering a property that requires renovation, it is important to obtain professional advice about the building’s condition, planning permissions and likely costs before committing to a purchase.

We can discuss your requirements and help you identify suitable local contacts where available.

6. I Don’t Speak Italian. Is That a Problem?

Not speaking Italian should not prevent you from exploring the possibility of buying a home in Italy.

Casa Travella has experience assisting English-speaking international buyers, and our local colleagues can often help with communication during property viewings.

When it comes to purchasing a property, it is particularly important that you fully understand all legal documents before signing them.

We can help you identify English-speaking legal professionals where available. You should arrange an accurate translation of any documents you do not understand and obtain independent legal advice before entering into binding agreements.

7. Why Are Some Properties Sold Unfurnished?

Many properties in Italy, particularly newly built homes, are offered for sale without furniture.

In some cases, kitchens, appliances, light fittings and other fixtures may not be included in the advertised price.

Some new properties may also be offered with a choice of finishes, allowing the buyer to select certain materials or fittings before completion.

It is therefore important to confirm exactly what is included in the purchase price, particularly when buying a newly built property.

Any agreed fixtures, fittings, finishes or additional works should be clearly documented before you sign a binding agreement.

8. How Long Does a Property Purchase Take?

A property purchase in Italy may take approximately three months, although the actual timescale varies considerably according to the circumstances.

The completion date can often be discussed and agreed between buyer and seller, subject to the necessary legal, financial and administrative requirements.

Purchases involving mortgages, outstanding documentation, renovation issues or more complex legal checks may take longer.

It is also worth allowing additional time during August and the Christmas and New Year holiday periods, when some professional offices and businesses may operate reduced hours.

For more information about the stages of the purchase, please visit our Legal Support page.

9. What Percentage Should I Allow for Costs on Top of the Purchase Price?

When buying property in Italy, you should budget for additional expenses beyond the agreed purchase price.

These may include:

• Purchase taxes, which depend on the property and the circumstances of the transaction.
• Notary fees.
• Estate agency fees, where applicable.
• Independent legal and technical advice.
• Surveying and property checks.
• Currency exchange and international transfer costs, where relevant.

The total amount will depend on several factors, including whether the property is purchased from a private individual or a business, whether you qualify for first-home tax relief and the fees charged by the professionals involved.

There is no single percentage that accurately applies to every purchase. We recommend obtaining a detailed estimate of the taxes, fees and other costs before making a binding commitment.

If you are transferring money from another currency, our Currency Exchange guide explains some of the practical considerations.

Still Have Questions About Buying Property in Italy?

Buying a home abroad is an important decision, and we understand that every buyer has different questions and requirements.

Whether you are searching for a holiday home, a countryside retreat or a permanent residence, Casa Travella would be pleased to discuss your plans.

Explore our properties for sale in Italy, discover our regional property guides, or contact Casa Travella for further information.

You can also return to our Italian Property Advice hub for additional guidance.

Please note: The information on this page is intended as general guidance only and does not constitute legal, financial or tax advice. Requirements, costs and procedures may change. Always obtain current advice from appropriately qualified professionals before making a property purchase.