Legal Guide to Buying a House In Italy

It does not matter whether you are buying a modest trullo in Puglia or a multi-million Euro villa on the banks of Lake Garda, it is essential to seek independent legal advice from an Italian lawyer (Avvocato) who is fully conversant with Italian Real Estate Law. Overseeing property purchases is essentially handled by a Notaio (Notary Public) but it is crucial to seek independent advice from your own advisor.

Generally, there are three stages to the purchase process:

• Reservation – Proposta irrevocabile d’acquisto
• Preliminary Sale Contract – Contratto preliminare di vendita
• Final Deed of Sale – Atto di vendita

It is never too early in the process to instruct a lawyer on your behalf; even if you have not made a firm decision to buy it can mean that you can overcome any initial obstacles you may face in dealing with the vendor or estate agent at the outset.