The room where you miss the details
Imagine sitting in a local office where critical decisions about a property are discussed quickly in a language you do not fully grasp. This is the exact moment of friction every foreign buyer dreads. You are not just looking for a house, but for mental peace before making a major life transition. International buyers often worry about hidden fees, unclear procedures, and signing legally binding documents they cannot read. Unlike markets in the UK, US, or northern Europe, the Italian real estate process involves distinct steps, where the notary plays a public and impartial role. Understanding who represents you and how fees work is essential to feeling in control from day one, without unexpected surprises.
Who does what: agent, notary, interpreter
Clarity in procedures removes the fear of the unknown. When you purchase in Italy, the final deed must be signed before an Italian notary in the Italian language. By law, if you do not speak Italian, the procedure requires an official interpreter and the translation of the deed, which is a standard and frequent occurrence rather than an obstacle. The estate agent acts as a professional mediator between buyer and seller, with compensation agreed upon and structured clearly according to local customs. The notary operates as an independent public official protecting both parties, verifying property titles and municipal records. Through Home Gallery, every step of this coordination is managed clearly, ensuring you are never left alone in a room where you do not understand the terms.
Talk with someone in your language before choosing a home
Finding the right property in Liguria requires more than browsing online listings. It means having a reliable partner who speaks your language, coordinates virtual tours before your trip, and arranges a focused schedule of visits during a single stay. Home Gallery supports you through every phase, from initial selection to document verification with local technicians, all the way to the closing with a notary and interpreter. We even assist with utilities and maintenance after purchase. To explore your options in Genova, take the first low commitment step by booking an introductory orientation call in your own language to discuss your timeline and plans.
Do you have a specific question?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sign the purchase deed if I do not speak Italian?
Yes, you can. Italian law requires the presence of an official interpreter and a translated deed if the buyer is not fluent in Italian. Your agency will help coordinate this so that the entire text is clear to you before you sign anything.
What is the difference between the notary and a private lawyer?
The notary in Italy is an impartial public official appointed by the state to verify property titles, check public registers, and draft the final legal deed. While a private lawyer can represent your specific personal interests, the notary ensures the legal validity of the transaction for both buyer and seller.
In Italy, who pays the real estate agency commission?
In the Italian real estate system, both the buyer and the seller typically pay a commission to the agency for the mediation services provided. The exact terms and amounts are agreed upon clearly and transparently before any binding offer or agreement is signed.
