Buying property in Italy is exciting, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming if you’re not familiar with how things work. The role of the estate agent is helping you through this process. As an estate agent one question I often hear is: Do I need a lawyer to handle the purchase?
The short answer: usually, no.
Meet the Italian Notary
In Italy, every property sale must be finalized in front of a public notary (notaio). This is not just a formality. The notary is a highly qualified legal professional, appointed by the state, whose responsibility is to ensure that the transaction is valid, legal, and binding.
You Get to Choose the Notary
Here’s a fun twist: in Italy, it’s the buyer who chooses the notary, not the seller. That means your notary’s job is to look out for your best interest, not the seller’s.
Here’s what they do for you:
- Check the property’s paperwork: They make sure the seller actually owns the property and that there are no debts, liens, or hidden surprises.
- Prepare the contract: They write and officially register the purchase deed (atto di compravendita).
- Handle taxes: They calculate and pay all the taxes related to the purchase.
- Register your ownership: They make sure your name is officially on the property.
What about a surveyor?
Most notaries advise you to hire a surveyor, it is a technician, an Engineer that checks the state of the building and if complies to urban laws.
Next Steps
The easiest way to start is by connecting with a trusted notary. They can give you a clear quote for their fees and the taxes involved. Once you know the numbers, you can decide if you’d like any extra legal support.
I’d be happy to introduce you to a notary I work with regularly and help you get an initial quote. That way, you can move forward confidently, knowing everything is in good hands.
