Real Estate Investment Opportunities In Italy

The turmoil that Brexit has caused does not have to mean that commercial opportunities cannot be seized where they arise. It might just be the best time to buy investment real estate in Italy. Italian house prices are continuing to fall at such a rate that Italy alone out of all Europe has a contracting real estate market leading the Financial Times to describe Italy's real estate market as "a notable EU outlier". This situation is understandably fuelling discontent in the 72% of Italian households that own their own property when they see the slide in value. However, as in a great deal of declining situations, this presents an opportunity for those investors who take the long view.

The banks are seeing loans going bad to the tune of €173bn of bad debts and they are recovering money by selling properties at auction. The shrewd investor could very easily obtain a significant reduction in price by buying at auction. There are also a number of property schemes in Italy aimed at revitalising either an area or the property itself which offer extremely good value for money to the investor willing to put money into a property and wait a while for a return.

There are many practically deserted villages all over Italy that have lost their populations as young Italians have migrated to other countries to develop their experience and skills. Therefore, in an attempt to revive swaths of rural areas across Italy, schemes whereby people prepared to relocate and refurbish the properties in these idyllic bucolic settings are able to buy properties for as little as one euro, in some cases. The schemes require a minimum investment and a commitment to living there. Perfect as retirement homes and also perfect for those young families wishing to bring their children up in a rustic environment, with the added benefit of learning another language. It would be wise to instruct an English speaking Italian lawyer to guide you through the process and advise on the legal implications of the...