Why Buy Property in Sardinia?

Buying a home in Sardinia is not just a real estate investment—it’s a unique opportunity to live in a place of authentic charm, surrounded by the natural and cultural beauty of the Mediterranean. Whether you are looking for a permanent residence, a vacation home, or a rental investment, this guide will walk you through every step of the purchase process.

The Benefits of Investing in Sardinian Real Estate

Choosing to buy property in Sardinia comes with numerous advantages, including:

• Breathtaking landscapes: From the white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters of Costa Smeralda to the rolling green hills of Barbagia, the island offers a variety of unique scenery.
• Investment opportunities: The Sardinian real estate market provides excellent deals for both holiday home buyers and those looking to rent to international tourists.
• Tax incentives for foreigners: Special benefits include reduced tax rates for foreign retirees and renovation tax deductions.
• High quality of life: A slower pace of life, fresh Mediterranean cuisine, clean air, and a strong sense of community make Sardinia the perfect destination for those seeking well-being and tranquility.

Unique Aspects of the Sardinian Real Estate Market

The real estate market in Sardinia has some unique features:

• Affordable prices compared to other Mediterranean locations, with opportunities to buy seaside villas, historic town apartments, or countryside estates.
• Specific rules for foreign buyers, with particular conditions for non-EU residents.
• Growing tourist hotspots, including Alghero, Cagliari, San Teodoro, and La Maddalena, offering excellent investment potential.

Who Is This Guide For?

This guide is designed for:

• International investors looking to buy property in Sardinia for rental income or resale.
• Foreign buyers planning to relocate and live on the island permanently.
• Aspiring holiday homeowners, searching for their Mediterranean retreat.

With this guide, you will gain all the essential knowledge to avoid common mistakes, save time and money, and complete your purchase safely and smoothly.

The Property Buying Process in Sardinia: Step-by-Step Guide

Buying property in Sardinia follows a well-defined legal process designed to protect both the buyer and the seller. Understanding each stage is crucial for ensuring a smooth and secure transaction. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key steps in acquiring a property on the island.

1. The Purchase Offer (Proposta di Acquisto)

The purchase offer is the first formal step in acquiring a property in Italy. It serves as a preliminary agreement between the buyer and the seller, outlining the essential terms of the sale.

Key Aspects of the Purchase Offer:

• It is a binding commitment once accepted by the seller.
• Typically includes a deposit (usually between 1% and 5% of the total price), demonstrating the buyer’s seriousness.
• Outlines the purchase price, payment terms, and validity period of the offer.
• May include contingencies (such as obtaining a mortgage or verifying legal documents).

💡 Tip: Before making an offer, ensure the property has no legal disputes or encumbrances by requesting a land registry check (Visura Catastale).

2. The Preliminary Contract (Compromesso)

Once the purchase offer is accepted, the next step is the preliminary contract (Contratto Preliminare). This legally binding agreement establishes the full terms of the transaction.

Why the Preliminary Contract is Important:

• It secures the agreement between both parties before the final deed.
• Details payment schedules, deadlines, and property conditions.
• Requires a substantial deposit (caparra confirmatoria), typically 10%–30% of the property price.
• If the seller withdraws, they must return double the deposit to the buyer. Conversely, if the buyer backs out, they lose the deposit.

📌 This is the stage where a notary (Notaio) or legal expert should conduct a full due diligence to ensure all documents are in order.

3. The Final Deed (Rogito Notarile)

The final and most important step in purchasing property in Sardinia is the notarial deed (Rogito Notarile), which officially transfers ownership.

What Happens at the Notarial Deed Signing?

• The buyer and seller meet before a public notary, who ensures the legitimacy of the transaction.
• The final payment is made, covering the property price, taxes, and legal fees.
• The official deed of sale is signed and registered with the local authorities.
• The buyer receives the keys and becomes the official owner of the property.

💡 Tip: Ensure you have a translator if you don’t speak Italian, as the notarial act is conducted in Italian and legal understanding is crucial.

4. The Role of the Notary in Property Transactions

The notary (Notaio) plays a critical role in Italian real estate transactions, acting as a neutral legal authority who ensures the process follows all laws.

Responsibilities of the Notary:

• Conducts a title check to verify the seller’s legal ownership.
• Confirms the absence of liens, mortgages, or legal disputes.
• Ensures all taxes and fees are properly paid.
• Registers the final deed with the Italian Land Registry (Catasto).

💰 The cost of a notary’s services varies depending on the property price but typically ranges from 1% to 2% of the purchase price.

Final Thoughts: Ensuring a Secure Property Purchase

By understanding each stage of the property buying process in Sardinia, foreign buyers can navigate the market with confidence. Working with experienced professionals—such as real estate agents, notaries, and legal advisors—is essential to ensuring a smooth and legally compliant transaction.

📌 Next Steps: Ready to move forward? In the next section, we’ll explore the taxation and financial aspects of purchasing property in Sardinia, including VAT, registration fees, and available tax incentives for foreign buyers.

Tax Aspects of Buying Property in Sardinia

Buying a house in Sardinia isn’t just about finding the perfect property—it’s also important to understand the tax implications of the purchase. Taxes and benefits vary depending on the type of property, the buyer’s residency status, and the intended use of the property.

This section will guide you through the main property taxes, available tax benefits for foreign buyers, and investment tax considerations.

1. Taxes on Property Purchases in Sardinia

In Italy, real estate transactions are subject to indirect taxes, which vary based on whether the seller is a private individual or a company.

1.1 Buying from a Private Seller

When purchasing a property from a private seller, the following taxes apply:

• Registration Tax (Imposta di Registro):
  • 2% of the cadastral value for a primary residence (if eligible for first-home tax benefits).
  • 9% of the cadastral value for second homes or investment properties.
• Mortgage and Cadastral Taxes: €50 each (fixed fee).

💡 The cadastral value is generally lower than the market price, making the registration tax more affordable than a percentage of the full purchase price.

1.2 Buying from a Construction Company

If you purchase a newly built property from a developer, VAT replaces the registration tax:

• 4% VAT for a primary residence.
• 10% VAT for second homes or luxury properties.
• 22% VAT for commercial properties.
• Registration, mortgage, and cadastral taxes: €200 each (fixed fee).

📌 If you buy a property that has been recently renovated by a company, tax rates depend on when the renovation was completed.

2. Tax Benefits for Foreign Buyers

Italy offers various tax incentives to attract foreign buyers and retirees looking to purchase a home in Sardinia.

2.1 “First-Home” Tax Benefits

If you buy a primary residence in Sardinia, you can benefit from:

• Reduced registration tax of 2% (instead of 9%).
• 4% VAT (if purchasing from a developer).
• Mortgage and cadastral taxes reduced to €50 each.

📌 Main requirements:

• The property must not be classified as luxury (categories A1, A8, and A9 are excluded).
• The buyer must establish residency in Sardinia within 18 months of purchase.

💡 Foreign buyers can access these benefits if they establish residency in Italy or if their country has a reciprocity agreement with Italy.

2.2 Special Tax Regime for Foreign Retirees

Sardinia is one of the Italian regions that offers a special tax regime for foreign retirees who relocate to the island:

• Flat 7% income tax for 10 years on foreign income.
• Applies to those relocating to towns with fewer than 20,000 inhabitants.
• No work requirements—applicants must simply demonstrate they receive a foreign pension.

📌 This is an excellent opportunity for retirees looking to enjoy Mediterranean living with favorable tax conditions!

3. Taxes on Real Estate Investments

If you plan to buy property in Sardinia as an investment or rental, it’s important to understand the applicable taxes.

3.1 Rental Income Taxation

• Flat 21% Tax Rate (Cedolare Secca): Fixed tax rate on rental income (not combined with other income).
• Reduced 10% Tax Rate: Available for long-term rentals under regulated contracts.
• Standard Taxation: Based on total taxable income (with rates ranging from 23% to 43%).

💡 If you rent the property to tourists for short-term stays, you may need to register for a VAT number (Partita IVA) depending on rental frequency.

3.2 IMU: Annual Property Tax

The IMU (Municipal Property Tax) applies to second homes and luxury properties.

• Average rate: 0.76% of the cadastral value (varies by municipality).
• Primary residences are exempt, except for luxury properties.

📌 IMU is 50% deductible if the property is used for business purposes (e.g., B&Bs or short-term rentals with VAT registration).

Conclusion: Plan Your Purchase Wisely

Understanding the tax aspects of buying property in Sardinia will help you optimize costs and take advantage of available benefits.

✅ Before purchasing, always check:

• If you qualify for the first-home tax benefit.
• Whether you are eligible for foreign retiree or investor tax incentives.
• The rental income tax rates if you plan to rent the property.

💡 Next Step: In the next section, we’ll explore the costs of maintaining a property in Sardinia, from annual taxes to daily management expenses.

Property Maintenance Costs in Sardinia

Buying a home in Sardinia is an exciting investment, but it’s important to consider the ongoing costs of property ownership. From annual taxes to utility bills and maintenance expenses, understanding these costs will help you plan your budget effectively.

In this section, we break down all the key expenses associated with maintaining a property in Sardinia, ensuring you can enjoy your new home without unexpected financial surprises.

1. Annual Property Taxes

In Italy, property owners are subject to various annual taxes, which depend on the property type and whether it is a primary or secondary residence.

1.1 IMU (Municipal Property Tax)

• Applies only to second homes and luxury properties (primary residences are exempt unless classified as luxury).
• Tax rate: Varies by municipality, with an average of 0.76% of the cadastral value.
• Payment schedule: Typically paid in two installments (June and December).

💡 Before purchasing, check with the local municipality to confirm the exact IMU rate for your property.

1.2 TARI (Waste Collection Tax)

• Covers garbage collection and disposal services.
• The amount depends on property size and number of occupants.
• Annual cost: Usually between €200 and €600 per year.

1.3 TASI (Service Tax – No Longer Applied)

• TASI was abolished in 2020, and its costs were merged into IMU.
• If you find outdated information mentioning TASI, rest assured it no longer applies.

2. Utility Bills: Water, Electricity, Gas, and Internet

Utility costs in Sardinia vary depending on the size of the property, location, and consumption levels. Here’s an overview of typical expenses:

📌 Important Considerations:

• Electricity: Sardinia has higher electricity prices compared to mainland Italy, so energy-efficient appliances are recommended.
• Water: Many rural properties rely on wells or private water tanks, reducing costs but requiring occasional maintenance.
• Gas: Properties may use LPG tanks or natural gas, depending on the location.
• Internet: Availability of fiber-optic broadband is improving, but some remote areas may have limited options.

💡 If you plan to stay in Sardinia seasonally, consider setting up auto-pay for utilities or hiring a property manager to handle bills.

3. Condominium Fees (For Apartments and Gated Communities)

If you purchase an apartment or a property within a residential complex, you may need to pay monthly condominium fees to cover shared services such as:

• Building maintenance (roof, facade, elevator).
• Common area cleaning and lighting.
• Gardening and pool maintenance (if applicable).
• Security and concierge services (in gated communities).

How Much Are Condominium Fees?

• Small buildings with minimal shared areas: €20 – €80 per month.
• Luxury complexes with pools and security: €150 – €500 per month.

📌 Always ask about condominium fees before purchasing an apartment, as these costs can significantly impact your budget.

4. Property Maintenance and Repairs

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your Sardinian home in top condition. Costs vary depending on property size, age, and location.

4.1 Routine Maintenance Costs

• Gardening & landscaping: €50 – €200 per month (if hiring a gardener).
• Pool maintenance: €80 – €200 per month (for properties with a swimming pool).
• General repairs: Annual budget of €500 – €2,000 (for unexpected repairs).
• Pest control: €100 – €300 per year, particularly in rural areas.

4.2 Renovation and Restoration Costs

If you buy an older home or a traditional Sardinian farmhouse (stazzo or rustico), you may need to budget for renovations.

• Basic interior updates (painting, flooring, minor upgrades): €5,000 – €15,000.
• Major renovations (roof, structural work, plumbing/electrical): €30,000 – €100,000+.
• Historic property restorations: €100,000+ (subject to local heritage regulations).

💡 Italy offers tax deductions for renovations, so check if you qualify for incentives like the “Bonus Ristrutturazioni” (Renovation Bonus).

5. Property Management Services (For Remote Owners)

If you don’t live in Sardinia full-time, hiring a property management company can help ensure your home is well-maintained and ready for your visits.

Typical Services Provided:

• Regular property inspections to check for damages or security issues.
• Utility bill payments and tax management.
• Cleaning and preparation before your arrival.
• Short-term rental management (if you rent your property to tourists).

Cost of Property Management:

• Basic package (monthly inspections, bill payments): €50 – €150 per month.
• Full-service (including rentals and maintenance coordination): €200 – €500 per month.

📌 If you plan to rent out your property, a management company can handle bookings, check-ins, and guest support, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Conclusion: Smart Budgeting for Your Sardinian Home

Understanding the ongoing costs of property ownership in Sardinia allows you to plan your budget effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.

✅ Before purchasing, consider:

• Annual property taxes (IMU, TARI).
• Utility costs (electricity, water, gas, internet).
• Condominium fees (if applicable).
• Routine maintenance and renovation budgets.
• Property management services (for remote owners).

💡 Next Step: In the next section, we’ll explore legal considerations for foreign buyers, including residency requirements, notary procedures, and common legal pitfalls to avoid.

Legal Considerations for Foreign Buyers in Sardinia

Buying property in Sardinia as a foreigner is a straightforward process, but there are legal aspects that must be carefully considered. From residency requirements to contract verification and notarial procedures, understanding the legal framework will help you make a secure and hassle-free purchase.

In this section, we cover key legal aspects, common pitfalls to avoid, and essential tips to ensure a smooth transaction.

1. Can Foreigners Buy Property in Sardinia?

Yes! Foreigners can buy property in Italy, including Sardinia. However, some conditions apply:

• EU citizens can purchase property freely, with the same rights as Italian citizens.
• Non-EU citizens must meet the reciprocity principle (meaning Italian citizens must have the right to buy property in the buyer’s home country).
• Some non-EU buyers may also need a residency permit or specific visa requirements (especially if they plan to live in Italy full-time).

📌 How to check reciprocity? Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides an updated list of countries with reciprocity agreements. Your notary or lawyer can assist in verifying this before purchase.

💡 Tip: Even if you don’t need residency to buy property, obtaining it can provide tax benefits and simplify certain bureaucratic procedures.

2. Essential Legal Documents to Verify Before Purchase

Before signing any contract, ensure that the property is legally compliant. This requires checking key documents, including:

📌 Important: Rural properties and historic homes may have special legal constraints. Ensure all land-use regulations and permits are in order before proceeding.

💡 Always work with a qualified notary and real estate lawyer to verify these documents before signing any agreements.

3. The Role of the Notary in Italian Real Estate Transactions

In Italy, the notary (Notaio) is a mandatory legal figure in real estate transactions. The notary ensures the legality of the sale, verifies documents, and officially records the transfer of ownership.

What Does a Notary Do?

• Confirms the seller’s legal right to sell the property.
• Checks for outstanding mortgages, liens, or legal claims.
• Prepares and registers the final deed of sale (Rogito Notarile).
• Ensures that all taxes and fees are paid correctly.

💰 Notary fees typically range between 1% and 2% of the property price, depending on the complexity of the transaction.

📌 Tip: The notary is a neutral party, but they primarily act in the interest of the Italian state. It’s highly recommended to have an independent real estate lawyer to protect your interests.

4. Understanding the Purchase Agreement: Offer, Preliminary Contract & Final Deed

Buying property in Italy follows a three-step process:

4.1 The Purchase Offer (Proposta di Acquisto)

• A binding proposal to buy the property at a specific price.
• Usually includes a deposit (caparra), typically 1%–5% of the purchase price.
• If the seller accepts, the deposit is non-refundable unless otherwise stated.

4.2 The Preliminary Contract (Compromesso)

• A legally binding agreement confirming the sale terms.
• Typically requires a 10%–30% deposit (caparra confirmatoria).
• If the buyer backs out, they lose the deposit; if the seller cancels, they must refund double the deposit.

4.3 The Final Deed (Rogito Notarile)

• Conducted by a notary, finalizing the sale.
• The remaining balance is paid, and ownership is officially transferred.
• The property is registered under the new owner’s name in public records.

💡 Tip: Never pay the full price before signing the final deed in front of the notary!

5. Common Legal Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

5.1 Buying Property Without Proper Due Diligence

• Ensure a thorough legal check is done before signing any contract.
• Work with a lawyer experienced in Italian real estate law.

5.2 Unregistered or Unauthorized Renovations

• Some properties may have illegal modifications or missing permits.
• If you buy an unregulated property, you inherit the legal responsibility to correct it.

5.3 Hidden Debts and Liens

• Properties may have outstanding mortgages, unpaid taxes, or disputes.
• The notary checks for liens, but an independent lawyer can provide extra protection.

5.4 Language Barriers in Legal Documents

• All contracts are written in Italian. If you don’t speak Italian fluently, hire a certified translator or bilingual lawyer.

📌 Tip: Always have a legal expert review contracts before signing anything.

6. Do You Need an Italian Residency to Buy Property?

No, foreigners do not need residency to purchase property in Sardinia. However, obtaining Italian residency can provide additional benefits, such as:

• Lower taxes on primary residences (reduced property tax rates).
• Simplified banking and financial transactions.
• Access to the Italian healthcare system (for long-term residents).

📌 How to apply for residency?

• Non-EU citizens: Must obtain a long-term visa and prove financial self-sufficiency.
• EU citizens: Simply register with the local municipality after staying for more than 90 days.

💡 Even if you don’t become a resident, you can still enjoy your Sardinian home as a vacation property or investment!

Conclusion: Secure Your Purchase with the Right Legal Support

Buying property in Sardinia as a foreigner is a safe and rewarding process, but ensuring legal compliance is key to avoiding future complications.

✅ Before buying, make sure to:

• Verify all legal documents (title deeds, land registry, planning permissions).
• Work with a qualified notary and real estate lawyer.
• Understand the contractual process (offer, preliminary contract, final deed).
• Check for any outstanding debts, permits, or legal restrictions.

💡 Next Step: In the next section, we’ll explore practical tips for settling into Sardinia, including local services, transportation, and integrating into the community.

Settling into Sardinia: Practical Tips for New Homeowners

Buying a home in Sardinia is just the beginning of your journey. Once you’ve completed your purchase, the next step is settling into your new property and integrating into the local community. From setting up utilities to understanding local services, transportation, and cultural aspects, this guide will help you transition smoothly into life on the island.

1. Setting Up Utilities and Essential Services

After purchasing your property, you’ll need to set up or transfer essential services, such as electricity, water, gas, and internet.

1.1 How to Activate or Transfer Utilities

• If you bought a newly built home, you may need to activate utilities from scratch.
• If the property had previous owners, you’ll need to transfer utility contracts into your name.
• Most utility providers require a valid Italian tax code (Codice Fiscale) and a local bank account for direct debit payments.

📌 Tip: The seller or real estate agent can help you with the transfer process, or you can hire a local property manager for assistance.

1.2 Contact Information for Major Utility Providers

💡 Internet speeds and availability vary by area. If you’re in a rural location, consider a satellite or mobile internet solution.

2. Understanding Local Services and Amenities

Sardinia offers a well-developed infrastructure with essential services available in most towns and cities. Here are the key aspects to consider:

2.1 Healthcare Services in Sardinia

• Public healthcare (SSN – Servizio Sanitario Nazionale): Available to residents and EU citizens with an EHIC card or local health registration.
• Private healthcare: Many expats choose private medical insurance for faster access to specialists.
• Local pharmacies (Farmacie): Provide medications and basic healthcare services.

📌 Tip: If you plan to live in Sardinia long-term, register with a local GP (Medico di Base) to access public healthcare services.

2.2 Banking and Financial Services

Opening a local bank account is highly recommended for managing payments, taxes, and everyday expenses.

• Major banks include Unicredit, Intesa Sanpaolo, Banco di Sardegna, and BNL.
• Online banks like N26 and Wise offer international-friendly banking options.
• ATMs (Bancomat) are widely available, but cash is still commonly used in small villages.

💡 Tip: To open an account, you’ll need your Codice Fiscale, passport, and proof of residence (if available).

3. Transportation and Getting Around

Sardinia is a large island with diverse landscapes, so choosing the right transportation method depends on your location and lifestyle.

3.1 Public Transport Options

• Buses: ARST operates regional and intercity bus services, though schedules can be limited in rural areas.
• Trains: The Trenitalia rail network connects major cities like Cagliari, Sassari, Olbia, and Oristano, but coverage is limited outside urban areas.
• Ferries: Regular ferry routes connect Sardinia to mainland Italy, Corsica, and Spain.

📌 Best for city living: Public transport is convenient in Cagliari and Sassari, but less so in smaller towns.

3.2 Driving in Sardinia

• Owning a car or scooter is the best way to explore the island.
• EU citizens can use their national driving license, while non-EU citizens may need an Italian license after one year.
• Parking is free in most towns, but restricted zones (ZTL) exist in historic centers.

💡 Tip: If you plan to drive regularly, consider buying a car locally, as importing vehicles from abroad can be expensive due to taxes.

4. Integrating into the Local Community

One of the best aspects of moving to Sardinia is experiencing its rich culture, traditions, and welcoming communities.

4.1 Learning the Language

• Italian is essential for everyday life, especially in smaller villages.
• Many locals also speak Sardinian (Sardo), a regional language with different dialects.
• Language schools and apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or local language exchange groups can help you learn faster.

📌 Tip: While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning basic Italian will greatly enhance your experience and connections with locals.

4.2 Local Markets, Events, and Social Life

• Weekly markets are a great place to buy fresh produce and meet locals.
• Sardinia hosts festivals year-round, from the Sant’Efisio procession in Cagliari to the Autunno in Barbagia festival in mountain villages.
• Joining local clubs, sports activities, or volunteering can help you integrate into the community.

💡 Tip: Sardinians are warm and welcoming—showing an interest in local traditions will help you feel at home!

5. Practical Tips for Long-Term Living in Sardinia

If you plan to stay in Sardinia for an extended period, here are some final considerations:

• Residency Registration: If staying for more than 90 days, EU citizens must register with the local town hall (Comune), while non-EU citizens need a visa and residence permit.
• Cost of Living: Sardinia is generally more affordable than mainland Italy, but prices can be higher in tourist hotspots like Costa Smeralda.
• Work and Business Opportunities: Most expats work remotely, retire, or start small businesses (hospitality, tourism, agriculture).
• Climate Considerations: Sardinia enjoys hot summers and mild winters, but some inland areas can get cold in January and February.

📌 Tip: Renting before buying can be a smart way to experience different areas before committing to a permanent home.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your New Life in Sardinia

Settling into Sardinia is a rewarding and enriching experience, offering a unique Mediterranean lifestyle, breathtaking landscapes, and a strong sense of community.

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Set up utilities and essential services as soon as you move in.
• Consider transportation needs, especially if living in rural areas.
• Learn some Italian to make daily interactions easier.
• Get involved in local events and markets to integrate into the community.
• Understand residency and legal requirements for long-term stays.

💡 Next Step: In the final section, we’ll provide a comprehensive checklist for every stage of the buying process, ensuring your Sardinian property journey is seamless and successful.

Final Checklist: Buying a Property in Sardinia

✅ Step 1: Research and Planning

• Define your budget, including property price, taxes, and maintenance costs.
• Choose the best location based on lifestyle, investment potential, and accessibility.
• Research legal requirements for foreign buyers (reciprocity rule, visa, residency options).

✅ Step 2: Finding the Right Property

• Work with a trusted real estate agent experienced in Sardinian properties.
• Visit properties in person or request a virtual tour if buying remotely.
• Check for hidden costs (condominium fees, renovation expenses, tax obligations).

✅ Step 3: Legal and Financial Checks

• Obtain an Italian tax code (Codice Fiscale) – required for any purchase.
• Open an Italian bank account for payments and utilities.
• Hire a real estate lawyer to review documents and contracts.
• Ensure the property is legally registered and free of debts or liens.
• Verify building permits, land registry (Visura Catastale), and urban compliance.

✅ Step 4: Making the Purchase

• Submit a formal purchase offer (Proposta di Acquisto) with a small deposit.
• Sign the preliminary contract (Compromesso) and pay a 10-30% deposit.
• Work with a notary (Notaio) to finalize legal paperwork.
• Pay final taxes and notary fees before the final signing.
• Sign the final deed (Rogito Notarile) and receive the property title.

✅ Step 5: Setting Up Your New Home

• Transfer utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet) to your name.
• Register for local property taxes (IMU, TARI).
• If applicable, apply for residency registration with the town hall.
• Consider property management services if not living in Sardinia full-time.

✅ Step 6: Enjoying Your New Life in Sardinia

• Learn basic Italian to integrate into the community.
• Get familiar with local markets, healthcare, and banking services.
• Explore Sardinia’s culture, festivals, and outdoor activities.
• Plan for long-term maintenance and property upkeep.

🎉 Congratulations! You’re now a proud homeowner in Sardinia! Enjoy your new Mediterranean life, whether it’s for vacations, retirement, or investment. 🌅🏡

Ready to Start Your Sardinian Property Journey? 🏡🌊

Buying a home in Sardinia is an exciting opportunity, whether you’re looking for a vacation retreat, a permanent residence, or an investment property. But navigating the process alone can be challenging.

🔹 Need expert guidance? Our team at Key to Sardinia is here to assist you at every step—from finding the perfect property to handling legal formalities and settling in.

📞 Get in touch with us today!
👉 Contact us now for a free consultation, and let’s turn your Sardinian dream into reality!

🚀 Your Mediterranean home is just one step away!

🏡 Quick Facts: Buying Property in Sardinia

💰 What are the tax benefits of buying in Sardinia?

• Lower taxes on first homes (2% registration tax instead of 9%).
• Flat 7% tax rate for foreign retirees relocating to small towns.
• Tax deductions for property renovations and energy-efficient upgrades.

🌍 Can foreigners buy property in Sardinia?

• Yes! EU citizens can buy freely. Non-EU buyers must meet the reciprocity rule (their home country must allow Italians to buy property there).
• Some non-EU buyers may need a residency permit if planning to live in Italy full-time.

📜 How does the Italian property purchase process work?

1. Purchase offer (Proposta di Acquisto) – A formal offer with a small deposit.
2. Preliminary contract (Compromesso) – A binding agreement with a 10-30% deposit.
3. Final deed (Rogito Notarile) – Signed in front of a notary (Notaio), officially transferring ownership.

🏦 Do I need an Italian bank account to buy a house?

• Not mandatory, but highly recommended! It simplifies payments for taxes, utilities, and maintenance fees.

🏗️ What should I check before buying?

• Title deed (Atto di Provenienza) – Confirms ownership.
• Land registry (Visura Catastale) – Ensures no outstanding debts or legal issues.
• Building permits – Verify all renovations and extensions were legally approved.

🛠️ How much does property maintenance cost?

• Annual property tax (IMU) – Applies only to second homes and luxury properties.
• Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet): €150 – €400 per month.
• Condominium fees (if applicable): €20 – €500 per month.

🚗 Is a car necessary in Sardinia?

• In major cities like Cagliari or Sassari, public transport is available.
• In rural or coastal areas, owning a car is highly recommended for flexibility.

🏡 Should I hire a lawyer when buying property?

• Yes! A real estate lawyer ensures the property is legally clear and helps avoid potential legal issues.

📞 Need more advice?

👉 Contact us – Our experts are ready to guide you!

🏡 Glossary: Key Terms for Buying Property in Sardinia

Atto di Provenienza (Title Deed)

A legal document proving the seller’s ownership of the property. It ensures the property can be legally sold.

Codice Fiscale (Italian Tax Code)

A unique identification number required for buying property, opening a bank account, and handling taxes in Italy.

Compromesso (Preliminary Contract)

A binding agreement between the buyer and seller, confirming the terms of the sale. The buyer usually pays a 10-30% deposit at this stage.

Notaio (Notary Public)

A neutral legal professional who oversees the property transaction, verifies the documents, and registers the new ownership. Notaries are mandatory in Italian property sales.

Proposta di Acquisto (Purchase Offer)

A formal offer made by the buyer to the seller. If accepted, it usually requires a small deposit (1-5% of the purchase price).

Rogito Notarile (Final Deed of Sale)

The official act that completes the property purchase. Signed in front of a notary, it legally transfers ownership to the buyer.

IMU (Municipal Property Tax)

A local property tax paid annually. Primary residences are exempt, but second homes and luxury properties must pay. Rates vary by municipality.

TARI (Waste Collection Tax)

A yearly garbage collection fee paid to the local municipality. The cost depends on the property size and number of occupants.

Land Registry (Visura Catastale)

An official record showing the property’s legal and financial status, including ownership, size, and any outstanding debts or liens.

Caparra Confirmatoria (Deposit with Legal Commitment)

A down payment (usually 10-30%) given at the preliminary contract stage. If the buyer backs out, they lose the deposit. If the seller cancels, they must pay back double the amount.

Reciprocity Rule

A legal principle stating that non-EU citizens can buy property in Italy only if Italian citizens can buy property in their home country.

First-Home Tax Benefits

A reduced tax rate (2% instead of 9%) for buyers who make the property their primary residence within 18 months of purchase.

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