Buying property in Italy? Have a lawyer on your side.
Independent, English-speaking legal advice for international buyers and owners of Italian real estate, from the first offer to the notary deed and beyond.
In Italy the notary is neutral and the agent is usually paid by both sides. I act only for you, and I check what nobody else checks before you commit.
Where buyers usually call me
The agent wants you to sign an offer and pay a deposit. You want to know exactly what you are committing to.
You cannot be in Italy for every step and need someone to check, negotiate and sign for you.
After the deed you found planning irregularities, hidden defects or a dispute with the seller.
Every legal step of your Italian property
One lawyer from the first viewing to the keys, and after.
- Introductions to independent agents and property finders I trust
- Legal due diligence: title, mortgages, planning and cadastral compliance
- Condominium arrears, tenants and pre-emption rights
- Comparison of taxes and all purchase costs
- Purchase offer and reservation form
- Preliminary contract and deposit protection
- Negotiation with the seller and the agent
- Conditions that let you walk away if checks fail
- Coordination with notary, surveyor and bank
- Signing by power of attorney if you cannot travel
- Renovations and short lets
- Planning irregularities and hidden defects after the deed
On your side, and only yours.
I worked in private equity between London and Dubai before founding my practice. I know what international buyers expect: clear answers, quick replies, no surprises.
Book a consultation- 01Independent: I act only for you and take no commissions on sales.
- 02Clear: scope and fee in writing before any work begins.
- 03One point of contact for notary, surveyor, tax adviser and bank.
- 04Updates in English, Italian or French, wherever you live.
From the offer to the keys
Introductory call
We look at the property, your timing and your plans.
Written proposal
Scope and fee in writing. Nothing starts until you approve it.
Checks and contracts
Due diligence, negotiation and the preliminary contract, with updates in English.
Completion
The notary deed, in person or by power of attorney.
Isn’t the notary enough?
The Italian notary is a neutral public official who checks title and registered mortgages and makes the deed valid. The notary does not act for you, does not negotiate and does not normally inspect planning compliance. A lawyer does.
When should I contact you?
Before you sign anything. A purchase offer can bind you once the seller accepts it, and the preliminary contract usually comes with a deposit you may lose.
Can I buy without coming to Italy?
Yes. You need an Italian tax code, which can be obtained through a consulate, and you can sign through a power of attorney made before a notary in your country.
What taxes will I pay?
It depends on who is selling, the type of property and whether you qualify for first-home relief. Before you commit I prepare a comparison of taxes and all costs.
Can you help me find a property?
I am not an estate agent and take no commissions. When it helps, I introduce you to independent agents and property finders I trust, and I check each property before you commit.
Send me the offer before you sign.
I reply personally within two working days.