Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone considering living or buying a property in Italy is sure to have a lot of questions. Here are only a selection of the questions we have been asked over the years, with the answers that we gave - updated to 2008 if necessary.
General / Lifestyle
Are foreigners welcome in Piedmont?
What schools are available for my children in Piedmont?
I've heard that Italy has lots of earthquakes - is this true?
What is the climate like in Piedmont?
Are there water shortages in Piedmont?
I've decided to buy in Italy - why should I choose Piedmont?
I've decided to buy in Piedmont - why should I choose the wine region?
Why buy from Piedmont Properties, rather than a local agency?
I'm looking to improve my quality of life - will I find this in Piedmont?
What medical provision is available to foreign residents in Italy?
What public transport is available in Italy?
Why are there no menus in Piedmontese restaurants?
Do I have to book a table at restaurants?
Can I buy a car in Italy, and drive it with a foreign licence?
Communications
How can I get English-language TV in Italy?
What equipment do I need to receive satellite TV in Italy?
What is the cost of telephone calls in Italy - and how can I reduce my telephone costs?
How available are ADSL and ISDN in Italy?
How can I get a free internet connection in Italy?
Buying Property in Italy
Why should I buy a property in Italy, and not for example in Spain where prices are lower?
Can non-EU citizens buy in Italy?
Do I need a lawyer to buy a house in Italy?
Why are there no prices on your website?
Are your property prices negotiable?
How long does a sale take from start to finish, on average?
Is a survey usually necessary?
Are floor plans of the houses available?
Are there busy roads, railway lines and electricity pylons close to your properties?
Property Renovation
What is a geometra?
I don't speak Italian, so how do I communicate with the geometra?
Can I renovate a house without being there?
How much time does a renovation usually take?
Where do I find competent craftsmen?
What grants are available for renovating a property in Italy?
Starting a Business
What rules apply to non-EU citizens who start or buy a business in Italy?
What regulations apply to operating a Bed and Breakfast in Italy?
Vineyards
Are any of these vineyards working vineyards, producing wine for sale?
Why are people selling their vineyards?
What is the cost of planting a new vineyard?
If a local farmer takes care of my vineyard, what revenue will the vineyard generate?
How much revenue can I expect my vineyard to generate?
How much is currently being paid to vineyard owners for their grapes?
Can I realistically expect to be able to change career, and become a farmer?
Finance
What financing is available to purchase a property in Italy?
Can you help me get a mortgage to buy a property in Italy?
Do Italian banks lend based on the income expected from future grape harvests?
What property taxes are payable in Italy - and how can I reduce them?
Are there tax advantages in having my Primary Residence in Italy?
Text & design © 1997-2010 Piedmont Properties
