Buying privately
As if buying a property in another country weren't tricky enough we often we hear of people who have asked around in bars and restaurants if there are any houses for sale locally or maybe spotted a 'Vendesi' sign on a house with a telephone number. Asking a friend who already lives here is a little safer, but not much. Maybe they are hoping to get a bargain, or at least save some money on fees, etc. If a property is for sale privately then often the seller is trying to hide some problem that an estate agent would pick up on and an unsuspecting buyer would not.
Be warned, buying a house in this way in any country is a risky business and with the high level of bureaucracy in Italy it is especially difficult. We have heard some horror stories and often get asked to help out when people get into difficulties and that may not be possible if you have signed contracts agreeing to the seller's terms.
Please don't think we are trying to encourage you to buy through us by saying this. We would rather you bought through one of our competitors than run into trouble buying privately.