+39 351 313 7814
+1 323 403 5396
Buying property in Italy, explained for Americans.
Every step from your first viewing to the keys in your hand, in plain English, with the Italian legal terms you will actually hear, the real costs, and the questions U.S. buyers ask most.
Schedule a Virtual ConsultationClarity before you commit.
Italy does not have a closing process like the United States. There is no title-insurance company standing between you and the seller, and the estate agent represents the deal, not you. This guide walks you through the real sequence of an Italian purchase so you know exactly what happens, what it costs, and where independent buyer-side counsel protects you.
m² to sq ft converter
Italian listings quote square metres. Convert instantly to square feet and see the price per unit so you can compare with home.
Indicative only. 1 m² = 10.7639 sq ft.
Eight steps, from search to keys.
A typical international purchase closes within 8 to 16 weeks of an accepted offer. Here is the path.
Get your Italian tax code
A free personal tax identifier, the Italian equivalent of an SSN/ITIN, required for almost everything: bank account, utilities, the deed. We obtain it for you, often before you fly over.
Open an Italian bank account
Useful for paying deposits, notary fees, utilities and taxes in euro. Non-residents can open one; we introduce you to international-friendly banks.
Search and view properties
Agents (agenzia immobiliare) list most homes. Remember the agent works the transaction, not your interests. We can join viewings remotely and screen listings for legal red flags.
Make a written offer
A signed offer with price and conditions, usually with a small holding deposit. Once accepted it becomes binding, so we review it before you sign, never after.
Verify title and compliance
We check ownership, mortgages and liens, cadastral plans, building permits and condominium debts. This is the step that prevents the expensive surprises Italy is known for.
Sign the preliminary contract
The binding preliminary (contratto preliminare). You pay a deposit, typically 10–30%, and both sides are locked in. We negotiate every clause, penalty and milestone for you.
Close before the notaio
The final deed is signed before an Italian notary, who is a neutral public official, not your lawyer. Title transfers, the balance is paid, the property is registered. Cannot travel? We close with a power of attorney.
Register, utilities and taxes
Transfer utilities, set up annual property taxes (IMU/TARI) and, if relevant, plan residency. We hand you a clear post-closing checklist.
What it really costs to buy.
Beyond the price, budget roughly 9–15% in purchase costs. The biggest variable is whether the home qualifies as your prima casa (primary residence).
Ranges are indicative and depend on the property, region and your residency status. We give you an itemised estimate before you commit.
The four questions we hear most.
Can U.S. citizens buy property in Italy?
Yes. Italy and the United States have a reciprocity treaty, so Americans can buy freely. No residency or visa is required to own a home.
Can I close remotely from the United States?
Yes. You can grant a power of attorney (procura) so we sign the deed on your behalf. Many of our American clients never need to fly over for the closing.
Do I have to report the property to the IRS?
Owning the home itself is generally not reportable, but a connected Italian bank account may trigger FBAR/FATCA filings. We coordinate with your U.S. tax advisor.
Can a non-resident get an Italian mortgage?
Often yes, typically up to 50–60% of value for non-residents. We can introduce lenders, though many U.S. buyers purchase in cash.
Start with a virtual consultation.
Share the listing and your questions. We review it live, flag the legal risks, and map your timeline, from your living room, on your schedule.