The leap you have been postponing for years
You imagine a different kind of day, where the morning starts with a short walk for fresh bread, the sea remains visible even in the deep of winter, and the pace of life follows the rhythm of the Mediterranean. For years, you have been postponing this project because you live abroad and fear that the bureaucratic distance makes it impossible. You are not just looking for a property, but for the mental permission to finally make your move to Liguria.
We know the doubts that keep you awake. You wonder if living here without speaking fluent Italian is too difficult, or if San Martino turns into a ghost town once the summer vacation ends. This is a real neighborhood with year-round shops, hospitals, and parks, not a seasonal resort that shuts down in October.
Who can buy, and what you really need to start
The first barrier to melt is simple: you do not need to be an Italian resident to buy a home here. Property ownership is open to foreign buyers, though non-EU citizens require a verification of reciprocity between states, which must be checked on a case-by-case basis by your legal professionals. Crucially, buying a home and obtaining a residency permit are two entirely separate legal paths.
To begin your journey from abroad, you only need a few practical elements in place:
- A valid tax code issued by the Italian tax authority
- An open bank account in Italy for transactions
- Clear guidance from a local notary for document checks
- Professional technical assistance for property compliance
By relying on Home Gallery, you have dedicated speakers of your language who handle the complexities on the ground before you even book a flight.
The first step, without commitment
You do not need to figure out the Italian real estate system alone while living abroad. Home Gallery supports international buyers at every stage, starting with video property viewings before your trip, organizing all visits into a single well-planned stay, and providing translation assistance right up to the final notary deed. We also coordinate local technical experts and assist you with utility connections and property maintenance after purchase.
To explore our current availability and neighborhood guides, take a look at our dedicated San Martino property selection.
Close this chapter of hesitation with a simple orientation call in your own language to map out your next journey to Genoa.
Do you have a specific question?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a non-resident foreign citizen buy a home in San Martino?
Yes, residency is not a requirement to purchase real estate in Italy. EU citizens can buy freely, while non-EU citizens must verify that their home country grants reciprocal property purchasing rights to Italian citizens. This is a standard check handled by your notary before any binding agreement is signed.
Does buying a house automatically give the right to live in Italy?
No, purchasing property does not grant a residency permit or the automatic right to live in Italy long-term. Real estate ownership and immigration status are regulated by completely separate legal procedures, and you should consult immigration professionals regarding visa requirements.
What is San Martino like outside the tourist season?
San Martino is a vibrant residential district of Genoa rather than a seasonal resort. Through the autumn and winter months, local shops, neighborhood markets, medical facilities, and restaurants remain fully open, offering an authentic and active Italian daily life all year round.
