How to Safely Buy Real Estate in Italy

Buying real estate abroad is a serious step that requires thorough preparation and knowledge of local regulations. In Italy, most transactions are conducted through real estate agencies, ensuring security and convenience for both Italians and foreign buyers. However, some buyers consider purchasing property directly from private sellers or through unlicensed intermediaries. Let’s examine why this can be risky and what advantages working with licensed agencies offers.

Why Private Listings Are Not Always Safe

Buying directly may seem like a more economical option, but in practice, this approach is often associated with risks and additional complications:

Legal Issues. Sellers are not always prepared to resolve issues related to property documents, such as building permits, encumbrances, or incomplete registration. Resolving these problems can take considerable time.
Additional Costs. The expenses for processing missing documents are often transferred to the buyer.
Overpricing. Private sellers often base their pricing on inflated sales examples, without considering the actual market value of the property.

Additionally, even in “direct” sales, sellers sometimes involve intermediaries, often unlicensed, whose commission fees are covertly included in the property’s price. As a result, buying through an agency can turn out to be not only safer but also more cost-effective.

Risks of Working with Unlicensed Intermediaries

The Italian market also has unlicensed intermediaries offering assistance with property purchases. While fraud in this area is relatively rare, working with such “specialists” can lead to undesirable consequences:

1. Lack of Professionalism

Unlicensed intermediaries often lack experience and knowledge of Italian legislation.
They may be unaware of the transaction process or the specifics of taxation.

2. Legal Insecurity

If the property has encumbrances or documents that do not meet legal requirements, the buyer is left alone to deal with the issue.
Unlicensed intermediaries do not bear any responsibility for the outcome of the transaction.

3. Hidden Commissions

Such intermediaries often include additional fees that are not disclosed in advance.

Working with such intermediaries can increase costs, delay the process, and leave the buyer without legal protection.

Advantages of Working with a Licensed Agency

Collaborating with a licensed real estate agency guarantees security and convenience at every stage of the transaction. Here are the key advantages:

1. Legal Protection

Agencies verify property ownership rights, check for encumbrances, and ensure the property complies with legal regulations.
The transaction is carried out through a notary, who oversees the legality of all stages.

2. Time Savings

The agency handles all interactions with the seller, notary, and municipal authorities.
This eliminates delays caused by missing documents or other issues.

3. Fair Market Value

Agencies offer properties at actual market prices, preventing overpricing.
They assist in negotiations with the seller and help clients secure better deals.

4. Personalized Support

A translator will guide you through all stages of the transaction and translate documents into your language.
The agency provides assistance until the deal is finalized and helps with relocation and adaptation.

5. Risk Minimization

Licensed agencies are required to have professional liability insurance with coverage up to €500,000, protecting buyers in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Real Estate Purchase Process in Italy: Key Stages

1. Purchase Offer (Proposta di acquisto)

The buyer signs the offer and pays a deposit (5–10% of the property's value).
The notary reviews the documents, and the agency submits the offer to the seller.

2. Offer Review

The seller has 15 days to make a decision.

3. Signing of the Notarial Deed of Sale (Atto notarile)

The notary verifies the property and completes the transaction.
Payment is made via bank transfer to the notary’s account or a certified bank check in the notary’s presence.

4. Post-Sale Assistance

The agency assists with transferring utility contracts, obtaining a tax identification code, and opening a bank account.

How to Verify a Licensed Agency

To ensure an agency’s professional credibility, check the following:

✅ Registration number in the Economic Information Register (R.E.A.)
✅ Professional Brokers’ Register (Ruolo degli Agenti di Affari in Mediazione)

These details must be included in the purchase agreement and notarial deed.

Licensed agencies undergo strict certification and are insured against unforeseen situations.

Conclusion

While purchasing directly from private sellers or through unlicensed intermediaries may seem economically attractive, in reality, it often comes with:

❌ Legal risks
❌ Hidden fees
❌ Additional costs

✅ Licensed agencies ensure transaction security, personal assistance, and protection from legal complications.

For a safe and reliable real estate purchase in Italy, always choose licensed professionals who offer the best conditions and minimize risks.