The room where you do not understand what is being decided
Imagine sitting at a table in Centro where a binding decision about your future is being made, but the conversation flows entirely in a language you do not speak. This is the exact friction that stops many international buyers from taking the final step. You might wonder how you can sign a legally binding deed without mastering Italian, or who is truly looking out for your interests among the various professionals involved. Furthermore, understanding the real estate agency fees and who pays them in Italy can feel like navigating a maze if you compare it to the UK, Ireland, or North America. You are not just looking for a property in Genova. You are looking for peace of mind, clear procedures, and the absolute certainty that your investment in Liguria is protected from start to finish.
Who does what: agent, notary, interpreter
Buying property in Italy follows a precise legal framework designed to protect every party, even when you do not speak the language. Italian law explicitly provides for the presence of an official interpreter and the translation of the final deed when the buyer is not fluent in Italian. This is a standard, frequent procedure, not an obstacle. The notary is an impartial public official appointed by the state to verify titles, check property records, and ensure the transaction is entirely legal for both buyer and seller. The real estate agent acts as the professional mediator between the parties, guiding negotiations and coordinating technical checks, and is compensated according to local custom by agreement between the involved parties. Professionals like those at Home Gallery manage this entire choreography behind the scenes, ensuring that local technicians review all documents well before you sign anything.
Talk to someone in your language, before choosing a home
Living abroad while purchasing a home in Italy requires a trusted local partner who speaks your language and understands your perspective. Home Gallery provides dedicated English-speaking advisors, remote video viewings before you travel, and tightly organized inspection trips tailored to a single stay. From initial document checks by trusted local surveyors to final coordination with the notary and interpreter, every detail is handled for you. To begin exploring your options in this vibrant neighborhood, discover our curated selection of properties in Centro. Take the first low-stress step today by booking a preliminary orientation call in your own language to map out your purchase timeline and ask every question on your mind.
Do you have a specific question?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sign the deed if I do not speak Italian?
Yes, you can. Italian law specifically allows foreign buyers who are not fluent in Italian to complete a real estate purchase. The legislation requires the presence of an official sworn interpreter during the signing at the notary office, and the contract must be read and translated for you. Your agency will coordinate this so everything is clear before you sign.
What is the difference between the notary and a private lawyer?
In Italy, the notary is an impartial public official chosen by the buyer. The notary does not represent either the buyer or the seller, but rather guarantees the legality of the transaction, performs mandatory public registries searches, checks property titles, and ensures taxes are paid correctly. While you can hire a private lawyer for extra representation, the notary is legally required to finalize the transfer.
Who pays the real estate agency commission in Italy, the buyer or the seller?
In standard Italian real estate practice, both the buyer and the seller typically pay a commission to the agency, as the agent acts as an impartial mediator for both sides of the transaction. The exact terms and amounts are agreed upon in writing before any binding offer is submitted. Always ask your agency for a clear breakdown of these costs upfront.
