Nowadays, a growing number of people are interested in buying a house in Italy – a trend that is fueled by the allure of the famous Italian Mediterranean lifestyle in combination with the relatively low cost of living. Many parts of Italy can be considered a buyer’s market with numerous properties available and sellers feeling the pressure to make sales – giving buyers an advantage. Before beginning your property search in Italy, it’s crucial to determine your ultimate goal with your future house. Are you looking to live in Italy permanently, have a second home, a holiday house, a rental property, or an investment? In this article, we will focus on discussing the key factors for those planning to live in Italy permanently or have a second home or holiday house. Understanding these aspects will provide valuable insights for individuals considering making Italy their home or acquiring a property for vacation and leisure purposes.
To Live in Italy permanently
Italy has been a favorite destination for people moving abroad for many years.
If you buy a house you enjoy free accommodation, as the cost of the rent drops away. Moreover, it is quite possible that your property could increase in value over the years, potentially making it a wise investment choice.
In most of the large cities there is a strong network of foreigners residing in Italy who might provide valuable support in your transition to living in the country. While the southern regions are gradually attracting the attention of international residents, it is important to note that these areas typically have a smaller expat population compared to other parts of Italy.
If you plan to buy a house to live in, here are some of the considerations you ‘ll need to make:
- Accessibility to amenities: Ensure that the location provides easy access to essential facilities such as shops, schools, banks and restaurants.
- Size of the house: Assess whether the house’s dimensions align with your specific needs and requirements.
- Language considerations: Keep in mind that English is not widely spoken in Italy, except in major cities like Rome and Milan, where you can get around in English. If you plan to live here, it is crucial to learn Italian, as English proficiency is limited. The ability to communicate in Italian will greatly enhance your experience and integration into Italian society.
- Climate selection: Consider the regional climate variations and how they might affect your lifestyle. The north experiences cold Alpine winters while the South is known for its hot summers, particularly in areas away from the coast.
- Proximity to international schools: If you need an international school for your children, you can find options in Abruzzo, Bologna, Como, Florence, Genoa, Lombardy, Milan, Modena, Monza, Naples, Padua, Piedmont, Rome, Siena, Lucca, Pisa, Triviso, Trieste, Unine, Veneto and Verona.
- Transportation: Consider the importance of transportation infrastructure in your chosen area ensuring that it meets your needs for commuting and travel.
- Legal and Tax Considerations: Ensure you understand the legal and tax requirements for property ownership in Italy, including any residency requirements, property taxes, and potential tax implications in your home country.
- Cost of Living: Research the cost of living in the area where you plan to live. Prices can vary significantly across regions in Italy, so make sure it aligns with your budget.
- Healthcare: Investigate the healthcare system in Italy, especially if you plan to retire there. You may need to secure private health insurance or understand how to access the public healthcare system.
- Local Culture and Lifestyle: Take the time to familiarize yourself with the local culture, customs, and way of life, as this can greatly impact your overall experience.
Consider these crucial factors and your transition to Italian living will be significantly enriched.
Second Home/ Holiday Home
As a holiday destination Italy offers you an incredibly rich history and culture, a great climate all year round, breathtaking landscapes, delicious food – all converging to create the spirit of La Dolce Vita. Owning a holiday house there offers you the ideal retreat for your own vacations, and it presents you with an opportunity to rent out your property when not in use, helping you to cover various expenses such as house taxes, energy bills and waste removal taxes.
Here are some important issues to keep in mind when considering the purchase of a holiday house:
- Proximity to airports: Assess the availability and frequency of flights from your hometown to the destination. Determine whether the airport operates year-round or only during the high season.
- Travel time from the airport: What is the duration of the journey from the airport to your holiday house? Convenience and accessibility play a vital role in maximizing your vacation time.
- Security in your absence: Ensure that appropriate security measures are in place to safeguard your property when you are not present. This may include reliable surveillance systems or the engagement of trusted property management services.
- Future plans: Consider whether there is a possibility of your holiday house becoming your permanent residence in the future. If so, anticipate your potential needs such as proximity to: schools, shops, restaurants, easy acces to amenities, …
- Availability of housekeeping services: Determine whether a reliable housekeeper is readily available to assist with cleaning and maintenance tasks, ensuring that your holiday house remains in pristine condition.
- Garden maintenance: Evaluate the level of upkeep required for the garden. It is advantageous to choose a property with a garden that is easy to maintain, minimizing the effort and time needed for its care.
The decision to make Italy your home or acquire a second home comes with a unique set of considerations, each adding layers to the experience. If owning a property in Italy appeals to you, contact Italian Property Finder. Our dedicated assistance spans from the initial search to navigating paperwork and regulations, ensuring a smooth journey towards making your dream of Italian property ownership a tangible reality.
Interested in buying an Italian property? Contact Italian Property Finder today.