What you need to know before you buy
You’ve found your dream spot in Umbria. The view is timeless, the wine flows easily, and your imagination is already furnishing the terrace.
But before you sign, here’s something we always say at Lussovera:
“The price on the listing is only half the story.”
Let’s walk you through the real costs of owning a property in Italy — so you can plan like a local, not a tourist.
Purchase costs: more than just the price tag
When you buy, expect to pay 8–15% on top of the purchase price. Here’s where it goes:
- Notary fees – €2.000–€5.000
- Registration tax – 2% (if buying as a resident) or 9% (non-resident)
- Legal & translation fees – Often €2.000–€4.000
- Surveyor or geometra costs – €1.000–€3.000 (worth every cent)
Lussovera tip: We always include these in our financial overviews for clients. No surprises, no stress.
Annual maintenance & upkeep
That lovely garden doesn’t prune itself. And even stone walls need care. Here’s what to budget:
- Garden and pool maintenance – €1.500–€4.000/year
- Property manager – €1.200–€3.000/year (depending on services)
- Repairs and updates – Always keep a buffer (we suggest €2.000/year minimum)
Property taxes
- Italy’s property taxes are modest compared to other European countries, but still count:
- IMU (Municipal Property Tax) – Around 0.5–1% of cadastral value (note: not market value)
- TARI (Waste Tax) – €150–€500/year depending on size & location
- Condo fees (if in an apartment complex) – €500–€1.500/year
Utility costs
Gas, electricity, and water bills can be surprisingly high — especially in rural areas with older heating systems.
- Electricity – €50–€150/month
- Gas (LPG or metano) – €100–€300/month (winter peaks!)
- Water – €20–€60/month
- Internet & phone – €30–€60/month
Lussovera tip: Modern heating and insulation are worth the investment. We help new owners plan upgrades that pay off quickly.
Furnishing & styling
Unless your home is sold turnkey, you’ll likely spend on:
- Basic furnishings – €10.000–€25.000 for mid-high quality
- Outdoor furniture & décor – €2.000–€5.000
- Custom upgrades – Kitchens and bathrooms can add another €10.000–€20.000 easily
Example: A real-world yearly snapshot
Let’s say you buy a countryside home in Umbria for €350.000.
Cost item annual estimate
- Property Tax (IMU + TARI) €1.200
- Maintenance & Management €3.500
- Utilities (avg.) €2.200
- Insurance €500
- Emergency Buffer €2.000
- Total per year ~€9.400
The Lussovera view
These numbers aren’t here to scare you — they’re here to prepare you.
Many of our clients find that, with smart rental strategies, their home pays for itself (and then some).
We’ll guide you through:
- Profit forecasts
- Rental optimization
- Long-term care strategies
Final thought
Owning a home in Italy should bring you joy, not surprise invoices.
When you know what to expect — and you’re surrounded by the right people — you’re set up for success.