Are they any restrictions for non-Italians purchasing property in Sicily?

They are no restrictions on foreign property ownership in Sicily. There is however normally a larger purchase tax implication for foreigners who are buying a home in Sicily and who are not intending to become residents of Sicily within an 18 month period after purchase.

Is it necessary to employ a real estate lawyer to oversee your property purchase?

There is no legal requirement for you to be represented by a real estate lawyer. In Sicily, all property purchases are handled by an independent state official called a Notaio. It is his legal responsibility to ensure both parties are fully informed of all details pertaining to the property purchase. However you may wish to consider this option if your purchase is of a complex nature or for your complete peace of mind.

Is it risky to purchase from private vendors in Sicily?

Not necessarily. Whilst the vendor might simply be trying to save himself some money by not employing an estate agent, he/she might also be trying to hide something which would normally be picked up during the conveyencing process. However, House In Sicily will work with you to ensure that all properties privately sold are fully inspected prior to purchase.

Are ‘ House In Sicily ' Estate Agents?

No we are not. House In Sicily is a UK limited company registered to operate in Sicily as a Property Marketing company. Our services go far beyond those an estate agent could provide, and we are completely independent. We deal with all the estate agents in our part of Sicily and with the numerous private vendors and land owners. This provides you with the highest possible choice of property and a service which is second to none.

Can I ‘under declare” the value of my property purchase to limit my tax obligation?

No. Under declaration of property sales price is an illegal practice, and if you are caught, you could face legal prosecution. Remember that the purchase tax you will pay will not be based upon the purchase price of the property but on the castastale value on your home. This normally saves our clients thousands of Euros on their tax obligations, in a legal way!

How do your viewing trips work?

Before you come to Sicily on a viewing trip we will discuss your wishes and requirements and ask to you to complete our property requirements form. This will provide us with the vital information necessary to begin a property search on your behalf. This may be as simple as providing you with details of properties already on our books or may involve us conducting a more detailed search specifically for you.

We will forward a selection of suitable properties to you and ask for your feedback. Once we have narrowed your search we will make the necessary arrangements to book appointments with the property owners or their nominated representatives.

We also offer all our customers the opportunity to stay in one of the many letting properties we manage in Cefalu. We will happily refund the cost of your accommodation, up to a maximum of €1000, should you subsequently complete a purchase via us.

Please contact us for more details.

Are property prices rising or falling in Sicily?

In recent years property prices in Sicily have risen substantially. Prices have levelled off more recently, but have not suffered from the large falls associated with the markets in the UK and USA. The market is different here. Thankfully there are now strict controls over the number of properties built in a particular area and so there are not huge numbers of new properties being built as you might associate with resorts in Spain for example.

Demand for good quality property remains strong in Sicily, and with an increasing interest from foreign buyers there is no reason to expect this to change.