Italian Mountainside Town. From 4Homes Buying Property In Italy: Costs

Essential Guides & Advice Costs Of Buying Property In Italy

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Date Published:
24/04/2009
Italian Harbour. From 4Homes Costs Of Buying In Italy

Buying costs in Italy are some of the most expensive in Europe, and can be up to 17% on top of the purchase price. Read on for a breakdown of exactly what you'll have to pay and to whom, so you're not caught short while chasing the Italian property dream.

Many properties in Italy are freehold. The total fees for buying a property can be as low as 10% or as high as 20% of the purchase price. It would be wise to allow an average of 17%.

Key Costs Of Buying In Italy

  • Registration fee (average 7%)
  • Land Registry fees/stamp duty (7%)
  • Notary fees (generally about 4% of the declared price)
  • Legal fees (for independent legal advice) 1% - 2%
  • Estate agent’s fee (usually shared between vendor and purchaser - 3%)
  • Mortgage fee (if applicable) up to 1%
  • IVA (Italy’s equivalent of VAT), if buying from a company
  • State tax, if buying from a private individual (if not a new build then non-residents can pay up to 10% to the Italian government)

Property transfer tax in the form of registration taxes is only payable on pre-owned properties and effectively replaces VAT.

Advice On Purchasing A Property In Italy

When buying a property in Europe, you should take the same care and caution as you would when buying a property at home.

Always ensure that you have independent legal representation. This will not only overcome any language barriers, but also ensure that any problems with your contract are highlighted and dealt with.

In Italy a public notary will also undertake a large part of the work, ensuring planning permission has been adhered to and that the property sale is dealt with in accordance with Italian law.

Always ensure you undertake the same checks on purchasing a property abroad as you would do in the UK – for example surveys and other standard parts of the buying process.

If you are buying in a tourist area, it is always advised to check for any future development plans around your property.

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Comments

  1. One of the best basic guides I have read yet, well done. I think your most important advice was to engage a local lawyer. If at all possible try and locate one with a specialty in real estate, and who is local to the area you are buying in, this way he may have 'insider' knowledge of local laws and property history.
    Posted by Doug Lasley on 07/10/2009 07:49:37
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