Buying Property in Italy: Legal Guide

Purchase Process

1. 1. Property Search: Identify desired locations and property types. Engage local real estate agents (agenti immobiliari) or explore judicial auctions via the PVP (Portale delle Vendite Pubbliche) portal for below-market opportunities.
2. 2. Obtain a Codice Fiscale: Apply for an Italian tax code (Codice Fiscale) from the Agenzia delle Entrate, required for all financial transactions in Italy.
3. 3. Property Offer (Proposta d'Acquisto): Submit a formal written offer to the seller, typically accompanied by a deposit of 1-5% held in escrow.
4. 4. Preliminary Contract (Compromesso): Sign a binding preliminary contract that details all terms and conditions. A deposit of 10-30% (caparra confirmatoria) is typically required.
5. 5. Due Diligence: Verify property title at the Conservatoria dei Registri Immobiliari, check for liens or encumbrances, confirm building permits and cadastral compliance.
6. 6. Mortgage Arrangement: If financing is needed, apply to Italian banks who offer mortgages to non-residents, typically covering 50-70% of the property value.
7. 7. Notary Appointment (Rogito): The final deed of sale is executed before a public notary (notaio) who verifies all legal requirements and registers the transfer.
8. 8. Registration: The notary registers the deed with the Land Registry and handles all tax payments on behalf of the buyer.

Foreign Buyer Requirements

Foreign buyers face no restrictions when purchasing property in Italy. Both EU and non-EU citizens can buy freely without requiring local partners or special permits. The primary requirements are obtaining a Codice Fiscale (tax code) and, for non-EU citizens staying beyond 90 days, appropriate visa arrangements. Engaging a bilingual lawyer (avvocato) familiar with Italian property law is strongly recommended to navigate the process and protect your interests.