Most people are willing to pay more for accommodation in the city centres out of convenience. At the same time, you may be looking at the same prices in more remote parts of the countryside.

About a third of the Italian population rent accommodation, and the average length of such a contract is 4 years. You can however find shorter-term contracts in the local tourist offices, known as APT, Azienda  di Promozione Turistica.

BEFORE LEAVING THE UNITED KINGDOM

ONCE YOU ARRIVE IN ITALY

Browse the apartments for rent sections, appartamenti da  affittare, in newspapers like Il Sole 24 Ore or local ones such as Il Messaggero for Rome, La Nazione for Florence etc.

Consider approaching an estate agency, agenzia  immobiliare, to see what's on offer. Also, the sign Affitasi, to let, is sometimes displayed outside properties available to rent.

BUYING PROPERTY

Many newsagents and cafés distribute free copies of specialized magazines for house or flat buyers.

Below is a link to a specialised daily (Italian only) which sets out some guidelines you may want to bear in mind when buying a house:

You may also want to view some estate agents' websites for further information, such as:

We also recommend that you get in touch with an English speaking notary public (notaio). Ask friends or colleagues to recommend a reliable and thorough notary, because his/her work will be the key to a successful sale. Alternatively view the Consiglio Nazionale del Notariato website (Notary Public Association).

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This information is provided by the British Embassy for the convenience of the enquirers, but neither HM Government, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, this Embassy nor any official here employed can be held responsible for the contents or accuracy of the information. We are not responsible for the availability or accessibility of any other website and links we provide to such external sites are for information only.

We welcome reports from those of you who find any of these links or information to be inaccurate or inoperative, or who can suggest other useful information.