How It Works

We Are Not A Real Estate Agency

  • We act exclusively on behalf of UK buyers, structuring property purchases in Italy with maximum efficiency and clarity
  • The Italian estate agency is appointed by the seller to handle the sale of the property, as required under local law
  • Our role is to simplify the process across two jurisdictions, drawing on a deep understanding of both UK and Italian systems. Where appropriate, we support the transaction from a financial and tax perspective on both sides

Complete Different Playground

Buying Property in Italy Isn’t Like the UK

  • The roles, procedures, and legal framework involved in purchasing property in Italy are entirely distinct from the UK system
  • Understanding these differences is crucial to avoid delays, misunderstandings, and unnecessary risks

Transactions & Payment Flow

Legal Structure Setup

We prepare the best “Legal Structure” required for your preliminary purchase contract, based on our best practice or aligned with your preferred requirements

Preliminary Agreement (Compromesso)

Signing the preliminary agreement (Compromesso) involves two payments: (A+B) Capitalio fee for the Legal Structure and any other commission, (C) Deposit to the seller (typically 10%)

Final Purchase At Notary

It takes place at the notary, with two final payments: (D) Notary fees (usually around 5%), (E) Remaining balance to the seller

Post-Purchase Support

Immediately after the purchase: (F) we assist in setting up utility contracts (electricity, water, council tax, etc.) and building insurance (optional)

Rental Management

(G) If desired, you can entrust the property to one of our group companies for short-term rental management

A) Legal Structure

The Legal Structure chosen for your Italian property purchase can affect tax outcomes in both the UK and Italy especially in cases of inheritance or asset protection.

We coordinate with your advisors and introduce trusted professionals to ensure the structure supports your objectives on both sides of the transaction.

 

B) Commissions

Our commission mirrors the standard fee charged by Italian estate agents, typically between 3% and 5%. It is paid in full, via your UK solicitor, at the time of signing the preliminary contract.

The full amount is paid in a single transfer to the Capitalio solicitor at the time of signing the preliminary contract

No other commission is due in either Italy or the UK 

C) Deposit

The deposit, known as the Compromesso, is paid to secure the agreement with the seller and confirm your commitment to purchase

The amount is agreed between the parties and typically is 10%

Capitalio does not receive or hold this deposit. It is transferred directly to the seller via the agreed Legal Structure

D) Notary Costs

In Italy, the notary is a public official appointed by the state and is the only figure legally authorised to finalise a property sale

You appoint and pay the notary directly. Their duty is to formalise the transaction and protect your legal interests

In addition to their fee, notaries also collect standard taxes due to the Italian government as part of the process (STLT)

E) Final Payment

The remaining balance is paid at the final signing, directly to the seller, in the presence of the notary

With the Legal Structure set up through Capitalio, the transfer is secure, traceable, and fully valid from the UK

This allows you to complete the transaction without needing to travel to Italy, if preferred

F) Setting Up Utilities

We assist with setting up electricity, water, gas, internet, council registration, and other local services

We can also introduce you to insurance specialists and help with building insurance through leading Italian insurers with whom we have dedicated agreements

G) Post-Purchase Property Management

Once your purchase is complete, you have the option to entrust your property to one of our group companies for short-term rental management (Serviced Accommodation)

We offer a complete solution that includes listing setup, guest communication, professional cleaning, and income optimization, ideal for generating returns while keeping your property fully managed

H) Inheritance Tax

By purchasing through the Legal Structure recommended by our professionals, you can legally eliminate the 40% inheritance tax normally applied to foreign assets.

This approach ensures tax efficiency and smooth succession planning for your heirs.

I) Reduced SDLT

Due to continuous increases in UK tax and pressure on landlords, buying assets in Italy is a strategic move for investors

  • Reduced Stamp Duty  if you sell
  • No Italian SDLT (Imposta di Registro)