Is Moving Abroad Out of Reach? Here’s Why Buying a Home in Italy Could Be Easier Than You Think

Q: “I want to move abroad. I've always wanted to, for whatever reason—maybe to reconnect with my roots or simply experience life outside my home country. But the idea seems so daunting. I feel like I absolutely can't afford it.”

A: That’s a perfect place to start. It’s natural to feel that buying property abroad is out of reach, but knowledge is power. It might not be right for everyone, but understanding the reality can open doors. Moving abroad, especially to Italy, can be far more attainable than it initially seems.

Step 1: Realize It’s Possible

First, take a look at your current work situation. Are you in a flexible or remote job? Could you take extended leave? If you have the option to work remotely or with flexible time off, the logistics of living part-time or even full-time abroad become much easier. If you’re planning to find a job in Italy, that’s a different discussion, but for those able to work remotely, Italy offers an appealing backdrop and a lower cost of living than you might expect.

Step 2: Identify Your Goals

What are you hoping to gain from living in Italy? Are you seeking a slower pace of life, cultural immersion, proximity to the beach, or a potential investment? Italy can satisfy any number of goals—from living in a bustling city like Milan or Rome to enjoying quieter coastal towns or idyllic countryside villages.

Step 3: Explore Locations and Lifestyle Options

Once you’re clear on why you want to live in Italy, it’s time to narrow down locations. Italy has it all: vibrant cities, peaceful fishing villages, mountain retreats, coastal resorts, and even dry semi-desert areas in the south. You can choose city life with proximity to restaurants, art, and history or lean toward the coastal and countryside lifestyle, with access to nature, vineyards, and relaxation.

Step 4: Start the Financial Planning

Now, it’s time to look at your finances. Determine what’s feasible based on your available funds or potential financing. Property prices vary significantly across Italy. For example:

• In major cities like Milan, Rome, and Florence, while one-bedroom apartments can range from $100,000 to over $1 million depending on luxury and history, it’s possible to find beautifully renovated, historic apartments in prime neighborhoods for around $250,000 to $350,000.

• For those open to small cities or charming villages, prices can be much more affordable. I recently helped a couple buy a pied-à-terre in Bari, only a few blocks from the beach, for just $45,000. While it needed renovations, it provided them with a valuable foothold in Italy at a surprisingly low cost.

Step 5: Understand the Costs Involved

Beyond the property price, there are some additional expenses to consider. To give you a clearer idea, here are estimates of the total costs associated with purchasing properties at different price points in Italy  (includes registration taxes, notary fees, legal fees, and miscellaneous expenses such as multiple flights and currency transfers):

• $100,000 Property

  • Additional Costs: $7,000 to $14,000

• $500,000 Property

  • Additional Costs: $23,000 to $58,000.

• $1,000,000 Property

  • Additional Costs: $43,000 to $113,000.

These estimates help account for things like unanticipated closing costs. Renovations are separate and can range widely based on your preferences and the property’s condition.

Step 6: Navigate the Process

Once you’ve explored, narrowed down a location, and set your budget, the buying process begins. This typically includes making an offer, arranging a small deposit with terms, and working with a notary to ensure the legality of the purchase. The final steps involve signing the deed, receiving the keys, and moving in or starting renovations. If you’re planning a full or partial renovation, this phase allows you to dive into designing your ideal Italian home.

Step 7: Consider the Quality of Life

Once settled, many find that living in Italy is more affordable than they imagined. The cost of living tends to be lower than in many other Western countries. With fresh food, accessible public transportation, and a rich cultural life, you can enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. You may even find that the cost of living allows you to save more without realizing it.

Final Thoughts: Make an Informed Decision

Taking the leap to buy a property in Italy might seem daunting at first, but once you break down the steps, the process becomes manageable. Even if this idea isn’t right for everyone, giving yourself the chance to explore the reality of living in Italy—whether for a few months, a few years, or a lifetime—can be one of the most rewarding decisions.

With the right knowledge, a bit of planning, and an understanding of Italy’s diverse property options, you may find that your dream of owning a home abroad is closer than you thought. Whether you’re seeking a forever home, a seasonal getaway, or a valuable investment, Italy offers endless possibilities to explore, live, and experience life in a whole new way.