Buying in Italy, explained simply
What to expect when you buy a home in Italy from abroad, and how we help.
Close to the heart of Europe
Friuli Venezia Giulia borders Austria and Slovenia. Udine, Lignano and Grado are within easy reach for many Europeans, by car or through nearby airports.
Sea, city and mountains
Historic Udine, the beaches of Lignano Sabbiadoro, the lagoon town of Grado, and Milan for city life and business.
Someone on the ground
Buying in another country is easier when someone local checks documents, organises viewings and keeps every step on track.
The main steps
- 1
Get an Italian tax code
The codice fiscale is required to buy property in Italy. It can be requested from the Italian Revenue Agency or through an Italian consulate abroad.
- 2
Make an offer
Once you have found the property, you sign a written purchase offer (proposta d’acquisto), usually with a deposit. If the seller accepts it, it becomes binding.
- 3
Preliminary contract
Buyer and seller often sign a preliminary contract (compromesso) setting price, deadlines and conditions, with a further deposit.
- 4
Notary deed
The sale is completed with the deed (rogito) signed before a notary, a public official who checks the title and registers the transfer.
Good to know
- The information below is general and does not replace advice from a notary, lawyer or tax adviser.
- Taxes and costs depend on the property, the seller and your situation: the notary provides the exact figures before signing.
- We will never suggest that a property is a guaranteed investment. We help you understand it, so you can decide.
We can handle the first contact and the main documents in English.
What to prepare
- Valid passport or ID card
- Italian tax code (codice fiscale)
- An idea of budget and timing, and whether you will need a mortgage
- An Italian bank account is often useful for payments
Questions we often hear
Can foreigners buy property in Italy?
EU citizens can buy on the same terms as Italians. For some non-EU citizens, purchase is subject to reciprocity between Italy and their country: the notary checks this. A codice fiscale is always required.
Do I need to speak Italian to sign the deed?
No. If a party does not understand Italian, an interpreter must be present at the deed. You can also appoint a trusted person to sign for you with a power of attorney.
Do I need to be in Italy to buy?
Not for every step. Many steps can be handled remotely; for the deed you can attend in person or sign through a power of attorney.
Can non-residents get a mortgage in Italy?
It can be possible, depending on your residence, income and the policies of each lender. We look at your case without making promises.
By A&C Immobiliare · Updated on
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