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Why location is key when buying a home

#Mortgage Approval
#Finance
#Home Buying
James Wilson
July 25, 2024
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#Mortgage Approval
#Finance
#Home Buying

Why location is key when buying a home

By
July 25, 2024

When it comes to buying a house abroad, especially in a dream destination like Italy, location is the single most critical factor to consider. Whether you’re seeking a vacation home, an investment property, or a permanent residence, choosing the right location can make all the difference in your property's value, potential returns, and overall lifestyle. Let’s explore why location matters in Italian real estate and how it impacts your purchase, mortgage options, and future prospects.

1. Location and Property Value

In Italy, property prices vary greatly by region, and the location often determines the value and growth potential.

  • Prime Cities: Locations like Rome, Florence, or Milan offer high demand, historic appeal, and cultural significance, ensuring stable property values and strong rental income potential.
  • Coastal Areas: Regions such as the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, or Sardinia boast breathtaking views and attract tourists worldwide, making them ideal for vacation homes or investment properties.
  • Rural Countryside: Areas like Tuscany or Umbria offer tranquility and charm at more affordable prices, with opportunities for renovation projects and long-term value appreciation.

Choosing the right location will help maximize your investment, whether you plan to rent out the property, renovate, or enjoy it yourself.

2. Accessibility Matters

When buying property abroad, easy access to your Italian home is essential for convenience and future resale value.

  • Proximity to Airports: Homes near international airports (like in Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, or Naples) ensure seamless travel for you and potential renters.
  • Public Transport: Properties close to train stations and well-connected roads are more desirable for commuters and tourists.
  • Local Amenities: Proximity to shops, hospitals, schools, and restaurants significantly impacts day-to-day living and enhances a property’s appeal to both families and retirees.

A home with good accessibility increases your quality of life and ensures its attractiveness to future buyers or renters.

3. Lifestyle and “La Dolce Vita”

Italy is renowned for its unique lifestyle, and choosing the right location will directly impact how well you enjoy the famed “la dolce vita”.

  • Coastal Retreats: Living in areas like Puglia or Sicily means enjoying sun-drenched beaches and seafood cuisine.
  • Cultural Hubs: Cities like Venice, Florence, or Verona immerse you in art, history, and vibrant festivals.
  • Quiet Countryside: Regions such as Le Marche or rural Tuscany provide peace, stunning landscapes, and opportunities to explore vineyards and local markets.

The right location aligns with your desired lifestyle, whether you crave adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion.

4. Location and Mortgages for Foreign Buyers

If you plan to finance your Italian property through a mortgage, location plays a significant role:

  • Banks and Mortgage Approval: Italian banks assess property value, location, and demand when offering mortgages to foreign buyers. Properties in sought-after locations are more likely to secure financing.
  • Investment Potential: A home in an attractive or emerging area increases the likelihood of long-term appreciation, which can strengthen your mortgage application.

Tip: Consult a local mortgage advisor familiar with Italy’s real estate market to understand financing options and ensure you choose the best property location.

5. Rental Income Opportunities

If you plan to rent out your Italian property as a vacation home, location is critical:

  • Tourist Hotspots: Areas like Lake Como, Amalfi Coast, and Rome are year-round tourist destinations, ensuring steady rental demand.
  • Emerging Regions: Lesser-known regions such as Abruzzo or Calabria offer lower property prices and growing rental potential.
  • Seasonal Appeal: Coastal properties perform well in summer, while ski areas like the Dolomites attract visitors during winter.

Choosing the right location can make your property a lucrative rental investment, helping you generate income and offset mortgage costs.

6. Resale Value and Investment Growth

The future resale value of your property is directly linked to its location. Prime or up-and-coming areas tend to appreciate faster and offer better returns on investment.

  • Historic and Cultural Centers: Homes in iconic Italian cities or near UNESCO heritage sites retain high demand.
  • Up-and-Coming Regions: Areas undergoing redevelopment, such as parts of southern Italy, offer excellent opportunities for long-term growth.

A carefully chosen location ensures you not only enjoy your property now but also benefit financially in the future.

Conclusion: Location is Everything in Italian Real Estate

When buying a house abroad, particularly in Italy, location is the cornerstone of a successful investment. From property value and rental income to mortgage approval and lifestyle benefits, choosing the right location ensures long-term satisfaction and financial gain.

Whether you’re dreaming of a historic apartment in Florence, a coastal villa in Sicily, or a countryside retreat in Tuscany, investing in the perfect location will unlock the true potential of your Italian property.


Need expert advice on finding the right location for your Italian property? Contact LikeJunco to guide you through the process and secure your dream home in Italy!

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