Buying In Italy: How Much To Offer Under The Sale Price?

People often ask how much below the asking price they can make an offer without offending the seller.

Actually, there isn’t a single, universal answer to this question, the price offered depends on several factors.

1. You need to take into account the state of the property: move-in conditions? Massive works to do? The more work needed, the lower your offer can reasonably be.

2. How long the property has been on the market for? Keep in mind that the average sale time in Italy is around six-eight month, so people are prepared to wait for the right buyer who offers the right price.

3. How eager is the seller to sell? If they need to sell quickly or need liquidity, they may be more open to accept a lower offer.

4. How much do you want that property? If you are prepared to walk away, you can afford to bid low; if you really want it, you may be willing to offer bit more that you initially budgeted.

5. Talk a lot with the real estate agent, or with the seller, and pay attention to their tone, to the exact words they use. They often, and unintentionally, reveal more than they mean to. If you are not fluent in Italian, consider having someone fluent to talk with them on your behalf.

This article is not exhaustive and is a guidance only.

If you need assistance with the buying process in Italy, please do get in touch.

Barbara De Benedittis Relocation and Legal in Italy