What is the best way to find a property in Italy?

For anyone thinking of buying a property overseas, such as in Italy, today one of the most useful tools, and effectively most used, is the web. It's useful not only for looking for your dream home, but also for finding information on the area around the property.

Here are some simple steps to follow to make things easier:

Define your budget

Define your budget and consider that it should cover not only the actual value of the house, but the fees payable for the purchase of the property, and any restoration or maintenance works (if you do not plan on buying already renovated, and that no touch-ups are required).

Do your research

Begin researching, gather as much information as possible about the properties that interest you the most, and also the real estate market in the area to make sure that the asking price corresponds exactly to the current market value. In fact, in Italy, prices vary greatly from one area to another and from one historical period to another. Gate-Away.com – the Italian property portal dedicated to anyone wants to buy a house in the 'bel paese' – offers in addition to the wider selection of house for sale, all you need to know about Italy and its housing market, property taxes, etc.

Refine your search

Narrow the search down to a few properties and arrange a visit to see them so you can decide if it's your dream home. It is hard to gain a true impression from photos on a computer screen. Coming to Italy to have a tour of the properties is also an excellent opportunity to check that the area around the properties is to your liking. Even the background is crucial. After all, this is a very important investment.

Find a broker

Using the estate agent as a broker can be determined, as they handle the whole purchase process, and will advise and help you to overcome various language, cultural and bureaucratic barriers. In any case, we suggest you ask them about the fees you have to pay to them and which services are included, to avoid unpleasant surprises.