Escape the District - Italy

BENVENUTO!

From history and culture, to food and wine, and an attractive Mediterranean climate, Italy has it all. Whether you want a vacation place in Venice or a new family home in Florence, moving to Italy is a dream for many Americans.

WHY BUY PROPERTY IN ITALY?

If you’re interested in houses for sale in Italy — or even looking for land for sale in Italy to build a property yourself — you’re not alone. In fact, Italy is now the number one location for North Americans to buy a second home overseas¹.

It’s not just the climate and cuisine which drives this popularity. Italian properties are on average significantly cheaper than the equivalents in Spain or Portugal — and can come with lower transaction costs when buying, and capital gains advantages when selling, too.

CAN I BUY PROPERTY IN ITALY AS AN AMERICAN?

If you’re a US citizen you can buy property in Italy thanks to bilateral agreements between Italy and the US — often known as reciprocal agreements. This reciprocity means that because an Italian would be entitled to buy a property in the US without restrictions, Italy returns the favor and lets US citizens buy homes in Italy with the same privileges.

Buying a home doesn’t change the standard visa requirements to stay in Italy — but as a US citizen you’ll usually be OK to stay for up to 90 days without restrictions, making it a perfect place for a vacation home.

HOW MUCH IS A HOUSE IN ITALY?

Italy offers a range of cities and towns, with properties for all types of budget. In the north of the country you can find larger and more populated areas — with large cities such as Milan or Rome — and consequently it’s where square feet price will cost you more.

In the south of the country you can find a range of villas, apartments and houses to make your dream of la dolce vita come true — and for much less than you’d pay in the north. Cities like Palermo and Naples are good options if you want to live close to the sea.

FINDING REAL ESTATE IN ITALY

For the most part, it’s advised to use an agent when looking for property in Italy. Most buyers contract an agent or lawyer in their home county, who then works with the Italian real estate agent.

It’s not uncommon for real estate agents to work in dual languages, and depending on where you live you may find a local agent who speaks Italian.

Now you have all you need to know about how to buy property in Italy as a US citizen. This guide to getting a home or investment property in Italy should give you the framework to start your own research, and get a step closer to making your Italian dream a reality.