Getting a Mortgage in Italy: a Comprehensive Guide

How to Obtain a Mortgage for Property in Italy: Expert Advice

Italy’s allure as a destination for purchasing property extends beyond its scenic landscapes and historic charm. However, navigating the mortgage landscape in Italy can be complex, especially for international buyers. This guide aims to provide a detailed overview of obtaining a mortgage in Italy, drawing on expert insights and integrating essential information for non-residents.

The Mortgage Approval Process

The process of securing a mortgage in Italy involves several steps and considerations. Understanding these can help prospective buyers streamline their efforts and increase their chances of success.

1. Duration for Loan Approval

The loan approval procedure for international investors typically matches the timeline for Italian buyers. However, if the process takes longer, it may be beneficial to seek assistance from another bank or advisor to avoid unnecessary delays.

2. Maximum Loan Amount

For foreign customers, the maximum loan amount, or Loan to Value (LTV), usually does not exceed 60% of the property’s purchase price or appraised value, whichever is lower. In some cases, this can be as low as 50%. Therefore, buyers should be prepared to provide at least 40-50% of the property value as a deposit.

3. Additional Costs

When applying for a mortgage, consider the following additional costs:

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IMU: Property Tax in Italy

Understanding IMU: The only Property Tax in Italy

Italy’s property tax, known as Imposta Municipale Unica (IMU), is a crucial aspect for homeowners, including both residents and non-residents. This tax applies to various types of properties and has specific guidelines regarding who pays, how much is paid, and the payment process.

What is IMU?

IMU is a municipal tax levied on the ownership of real estate properties in Italy, excluding primary residences unless they are classified as luxury homes. It was introduced to consolidate several existing property taxes and simplify the taxation process.

Who Has to Pay?

IMU is mandatory for:

  • Owners of secondary homes (second homes).
  • Owners of primary luxury homes (classified under categories A1, A8, and A9).
  • Owners of commercial properties.
  • Landowners, including those owning agricultural land, with some exemptions for small independent farmers and professional agricultural entrepreneurs.

How Much Do I Have to Pay?

The IMU amount is calculated based on the cadastral income (rendita catastale) of the property – NOT on the commercial price of the property – which is increased by 5% for residential properties and 25% for agricultural land. The resulting amount is then multiplied by specific coefficients depending on the property type:

  • Residential properties (A1-A11): 160
  • Storage units and attics (C2): 80
  • Garages (C6): 65
  • Canopies (C7): 55
  • Offices (A10): 135
  • Industrial buildings and hotels (D1-D4, D6-D10): 60
  • Stores (C1): 55

The standard IMU rate is 0.76%, but municipalities can adjust this rate between 0.46% and 1.06%.

Example Calculation
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West Liguria: The Best Climate in Italy According to Reports

Experience Perfect Weather Year-Round in West Liguria

The Province of Imperia, located in the picturesque West Liguria, boasts the best climate in Italy. According to a detailed report by Corriere della Sera and iLMeteo.it, which analyzed 17 parameters and over 380 million data points from 2000 to 2023, this area emerged as having the most favorable weather conditions among Italian provincial capitals.

Key Highlights of the Province of Imperia’s Climate

  1. Mild Winters and Warm Summers: The climate is characterized by mild winters and warm, sunny summers. Even in December, residents and visitors can enjoy beach outings, with Christmas often resembling a spring day.
  2. Low Cloud Cover: The area enjoys low cloud cover, with daytime cloudiness at just 30%, a figure that has remained stable for over two decades.
  3. Stable Temperatures: The annual temperature variation is minimal, with a stable and comfortable climate year-round, ideal for outdoor activities and events.
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West Liguria Tops Blue Flags 2024

Liguria again tops the regional table with 34 blue flags

Clean waters, indeed “excellent”, pristine clear sea and beaches equipped with services, accessible to all and safe: West Liguria maintains its status as a pioneer in sustainable coastline management in 2024, shining once more as a light of environmental excellence in Italy. The Italian Riviera has successfully kept its Blue Flag certification this year, with the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in Italy, demonstrating the dedication to upholding impeccable beach standards and a superior marine environment.

Liguria is followed  from far away by Apulia (24 flags), Campania and Calabria (both with 20 flags), Marche (19 flags), Tuscany (18 flags), Sardinia (15 flags), Abruzzo (15 flags), Sicily (14 flags), Trentino (12 flags), Lazio (10 flags), Emilia Romagna and Veneto (both with 9 flags), Basilicata and Piemonte (both with 5 flags), Lombardia (3 flags), Friuli and Molise (both with 2 flags).

La Spiaggetta dei Balzi Rossi

Blue Flags are international distinctions, created in 1987, with patronage and support from UNEP, the United Nations Environment Programme, and the World Tourism Organisation, which aims to promote a sustainable development at beaches and marinas through strict criteria such as water quality, environmental management, safety and services provided close to or within the beach area. To the Blue Flag Programme participate beaches and marinas in 41 countries of all the world.

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The Infiorata: Celebrating Art and Tradition

Along the enchanting Riviera dei Fiori, the Infiorata Festival, on June 2nd this year, stands out as a spectacular expression of local artistry and community spirit. This article post explores the essence of the Infiorata, offers a glimpse into its history and artistic process, and suggests why this might be the perfect time to consider this location for your next home purchase.

What is the Infiorata?

The term “Infiorata” translates to “decorated with flowers” in Italian. This event is deeply rooted in Italian culture, dating back centuries as a way to celebrate religious and significant local festivities. In particular, the festival is closely aligned with the Feast of Corpus Domini, creating a vibrant path of beauty and faith crafted from flowers. Each year, streets in cities like Imperia and Diano Marina are transformed into stunning floral tapestries, where the ground itself becomes a canvas for masterpieces made from petals, leaves, and seeds.

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Golf, Glamour, and the Italian Riviera: The 3rd LiguriaHomes Casamare Golf Cup Awaits You

The prestigious LiguriaHomes Casamare Golf Cup is set to thrill golf enthusiasts once again with its third edition. This year, the event escalates in excitement and will be held at the renowned Circolo Golf degli Ulivi in San Remo on June 15th and 16th 2024. Participants will enjoy the challenge of Stableford rules on the first day and Louisiana rules on the following day, playing in teams of two.

This exclusive tournament not only allows players to compete on one of Italy’s most historic and picturesque golf courses but also offers them the chance to secure complimentary green fees by being among the first to confirm their participation.

Tournament Format

  • Day 1 (June 15th): Golfers will play under Stableford rules, a scoring system that favors consistent play, allowing competitors to accumulate points based on their performance per hole.
  • Day 2 (June 16th): The competition heats up with Louisiana rules, adding an exciting twist with a team-based stroke play that brings both strategic depth and unpredictability.

Additional Perks

Post-tournament, the Club House will open its doors for refreshments, providing a perfect environment for relaxation and networking among players and spectators alike.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience

Mark your calendars for a weekend filled with competitive golf, sunshine, and camaraderie on the beautiful Italian Riviera. For more details and to secure your spot, please reach out to us.

Contact Information: matteo@liguriahomes.com

The team from LiguriaHomes Casamare will be on-site throughout the event to assist with any real estate inquiries in Liguria and beyond. Whether you are in the market to buy or explore investment opportunities, we are ready to provide expert advice and insights.

Do not miss out on this exceptional blend of sport and luxury lifestyle opportunities. Confirm your participation today and join us for what promises to be another memorable edition of the LiguriaHomes Casamare Golf Cup!

Visit our website at www.liguriahomes.com, and join the elite at LiguriaHomes Casamare for a spectacular weekend of golf and networking in one of Italy’s most scenic locations.