Buying a home in Italy from abroad, explained simply
What it costs, what you need and the questions every international buyer asks us. Clear answers, no small print.
What you pay on top of the price
As a rule of thumb, budget around 10–15% of the price for taxes and fees, plus the renovation. In your plan we calculate the exact figures for each home.
| Item | Indicative cost |
|---|---|
| Registration tax (buying from a private seller) | 9% of the cadastral value (an official value, usually well below the price) for a second home; 2% if it becomes your main residence. Minimum €1,000, plus two fixed taxes of €50. |
| VAT (buying from a builder) | Usually 10% of the price for a second home, 4% for a main residence, plus fixed taxes. |
| Notary | Typically between about €1,500 and €3,500, depending on the price and the deed. |
| Real estate agency | If an agency is involved, in Italy the buyer usually pays a fee too: often 2–4% of the price plus VAT. We tell you before you make an offer. |
| Checks, interpreter, power of attorney | Technical survey, sworn interpreter at the deed and, if you do not travel, the power of attorney. |
| Every year after buying | Property tax (IMU) on second homes, set by each town; waste tax; utilities; insurance. |
Indicative figures for general information, updated November 2026. Taxes depend on your situation and can change: the exact amounts are confirmed by the notary and our accountant for your purchase.
Your checklist
- A valid passport — for the tax code and the deed.
- Italian tax code (codice fiscale) — we request it for you.
- Proof of funds — banks and notaries must check where the money comes from (anti-money-laundering rules).
- A power of attorney — only if you will not be in Italy for the signing.
- An Italian bank account — not mandatory, but useful to pay bills and taxes.
What buyers ask us most
Can Americans buy a home in Italy?
Yes. US citizens can buy property in Italy thanks to the reciprocity between the two countries. For other nationalities we check the rules for you during the first call.
Do I have to come to Italy to buy?
No. You can follow the search on live video and sign through a power of attorney, made at the Italian consulate or in front of a notary in your country. Most clients still like to visit their favourite homes once.
What is the codice fiscale and how do I get it?
It is the Italian tax code, needed to buy, sign contracts and open utilities. You can get it from an Italian consulate or in Italy: we take care of the request.
Can I get a mortgage as a non-resident?
It is possible, but Italian banks usually lend a smaller share of the value and ask for more documents. Many international buyers pay in cash. If you need a mortgage, we put you in touch with a specialised broker.
Does owning a home let me live in Italy?
No, owning property does not give a right to stay. Non-EU citizens can stay up to 90 days in any 180 without a visa; for longer stays you need a visa, for example the elective residence visa for people with stable passive income. We connect you with an immigration lawyer.
How is my money kept safe?
Only traceable bank transfers: a deposit at the preliminary contract and the balance at the deed, in front of the notary. You can also ask the notary to hold the price in a dedicated account until the purchase is registered. We never hold clients’ money.
How long does the whole process take?
As a rough guide: 1–3 months to find the right home, 2–3 months from the accepted offer to the deed, and from 3 to 12 months for a renovation. We give you an updated timeline in writing.
What if the house has hidden problems?
Before any offer we check structure, permits and land registry records. In Italy the deed requires the property to match its registered plans: we make sure any issue is solved before you sign, not after.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice for your specific case.
Have a question that is not here?
Ask us in the free call. If we do not know the answer, we find out from the right professional.