Buying a home in Italy
La dolce vita — from Milan style to Tuscan hills.
Why Italy?
Italy is design, history and food woven into daily life. Live the fashion-capital pace of Milan, the open-air museum of Rome, or the renaissance calm of Florence and Tuscany. For many buyers, owning a home in Italy is as much about lifestyle as it is about the building itself.
- ✓ Unmatched history, art and architecture
- ✓ Incredible regional food and wine
- ✓ Charming towns at gentle prices
- ✓ Central Mediterranean location
- ✓ Strong sense of community
Where to look
Popular cities and areas in Italy — tap any to see live listings.
Homes in Italy
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How to buy in Italy
A simple overview of the buying process for international buyers. Always work with a local lawyer or notary for your specific situation.
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1
Make a formal offer (Proposta)
A written, signed offer with a small deposit reserves the property.
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2
Preliminary contract (Compromesso)
The compromesso sets terms, completion date and a larger deposit.
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3
Due diligence via a notaio
A notaio verifies title, planning and any charges on the property.
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4
Final deed (Rogito)
Sign the rogito before the notaio, pay the balance and transfer taxes.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners buy property in Italy?
Yes. EU citizens and most non-EU nationals can buy property in Italy (reciprocity rules apply to some countries).
What is a codice fiscale?
It's an Italian tax code, required to buy property, open a bank account and pay utilities.
Which cities are most popular with buyers?
Milan for business and design, Rome for history, and Florence and Tuscany for lifestyle homes.