Overview
We are a property sourcing agency based in London and specialise in offering off-market properties in Italy.
Luca Marengo is Italian by birth so he knows the country very well and despite the fact of being based in London he visits Italy very often.
Our services are: sourcing, architecture, and legal. We offer a wide range of services to help an investor being supported on every side. All those aspects integrate each other and we offer an overview through out the whole process.
We source 3/4/5* hotels in city centre or seacoast; B&B, agriturismo, luxury villa, carehome.
With a network of professionals you can find many options of investment of what is available at the moment.
There is very much attention to Italy from an international point of view and we can help to create as much as possible a smoothly acquiring process.
FAQs
Can foreigners legally buy commercial real estate in Italy?
Yes. There are no restrictions for most foreigners (EU and many non-EU citizens) to purchase commercial property in Italy. However, your country must have reciprocity agreements with Italy—check with your consulate or a local lawyer.
What types of commercial properties are most common in Italy?
Common commercial property types include:
Retail units (shops, malls)
Office spaces
Industrial warehouses
Hospitality properties (hotels, B&Bs)
Mixed-use buildings (residential + commercial)
Do I need an Italian company or local presence to buy commercial property?
No. Individuals can buy property in their name. However, for tax optimisation or liability reasons, many investors establish an SRL (Italian limited company) or use a foreign company to hold the property.
What taxes and fees should I expect when buying commercial real estate in Italy?
Expect the following:
Registration tax: 9% (commercial) or 22% VAT (if applicable)
Notary fees: 1–2%
Legal fees: ~1–2%
Agent commission: ~3–5% (split between buyer/seller)
Annual IMU tax: Municipal tax based on cadastral value
Can I get financing from an Italian bank as a non-resident?
Yes, but it's difficult. Most Italian banks require:
Solid credit history
Down payment of 40–50%
Proof of income/assets
It’s easier if you form a local company or partner with an Italian entity.
Is buying through an auction a good idea?
Judicial auctions can offer discounts, but:
Require cash purchases
May involve legal risks or unknown property conditions
No guarantees of possession upon sale
It's recommended only for experienced investors with local legal support.
Can I rent out or develop the commercial property after buying it?
Yes, but zoning laws and building codes vary by region and municipality.
Always:
Check urban planning restrictions
Get a “certificato di destinazione urbanistica” (land use certificate)
Ensure the property is compliant for commercial use
What are the most attractive cities or regions for commercial investment?
Depends on your goals:
Milan, Rome: Corporate offices, luxury retail
Florence, Venice: Boutique hotels, tourism-focused
Turin, Bologna: Industrial logistics, mixed-use
Southern Italy: Lower cost, high-risk/high-reward
How long does the buying process usually take?
The full process typically takes:
2–3 weeks for preliminary agreements (compromesso)
1–2 months for due diligence, legal checks
2–4 months total to finalize (rogito)
Delays are common if title is unclear or bank financing is involved.
Do I need a lawyer or notary to buy property in Italy?
Yes. A notary (notaio) is legally required to formalise the deed and verify documents. It's strongly recommended to hire an independent real estate lawyer for:
Due diligence
Title verification
Tax planning
Translating and reviewing contracts
What is the due diligence process when purchasing commercial property?
Due diligence typically includes:
Title search (to ensure clean ownership and no encumbrances)
Urban planning checks (zoning, permits)
Structural inspection (if applicable)
Review of existing leases or tenant agreements
Validation of energy efficiency (APE certificate)
A real estate lawyer or technical advisor (geometra) is essential.
How are commercial properties valued in Italy?
Valuation is usually based on:
Cadastral value (used for taxes)
Market value (based on location, size, use, income potential)
Rental income multiplier for leased properties
An independent surveyor can provide a certified perizia (appraisal).
Are there incentives or tax breaks for foreign investors?
Yes, but they depend on the region and type of investment. Possible incentives include:
Reduced VAT or tax credits for restoring historic buildings
Startup Italy programs (if linked to business creation)
Regional grants for developing underused commercial spaces
Consult a local commercial tax advisor for specific programs.
Can I apply for a visa or residency by investing in Italian real estate?
Commercial property alone does not qualify for residency, but:
€500,000+ investments in Italian companies may be eligible for the Investor Visa
Running a business on the property may qualify you for a self-employment visa
Legal assistance is needed to explore immigration pathways.
What are the ongoing costs of owning commercial property in Italy?
Ongoing ownership costs include:
IMU property tax (annual, varies by municipality)
Insurance (fire, liability, etc.)
Maintenance & management
Condominium fees (if in a multi-unit building)
Accountancy & reporting fees (if using a company structure)