Converting An Italian Fixer-Upper Into The Perfect Home

Article Written By: Adriana

Home buyers' spending power may have been hit by the tough economic conditions, however the attraction of owning property in a country such as Italy is still undimmed. It explains why rising numbers of overseas purchasers in Italy's property sector are deciding to renovate or even start from scratch instead of picking up resale real estate.

The most immediate attraction is simple – finance. Ditch any ideas of picking up ruins for Euro 1, a PR ploy dreamt up a couple of years ago by authorities in one Sicilian town. However, in parts of Italy such as Basilicata, Molise and Sicily a countryside relic can be found for just Euro 11,000.

Throw in costs of renovation that can begin at around Euro 800 a square metre and is it possible to turn a mound of rocks and stones into a 90sq m longed-for holiday property for around Euro 90,000 – a mere fraction of what one would cost otherwise. In addition, other than the initial buying price, construction costs may then be spread over the duration of the construction, which can take as long as the buyers prefer.

Italy's long history means it has tens of thousands of buildings dating from the 1700s, just in need of some TLC to make them into welcoming modern dwellings.

There is also a plentiful supply of farmhouses – which tend to be the No1 choice of overseas buyers – in the main because of the exodus of swathes of people who, in the 19th and early 20th centuries, upped sticks and left Italy's countryside for towns and cities or even a new life in the US and South America. By the way, if you are tempted by something a little more unorthodox, the answer may lie in the approximately 5,500 churches and chapels on the Italian property market and available to be refurbished into dwellings.

Once you have chosen a property, the next requirement is engaging the right professionals to bring your dream into reality. Some buyers are prepared to do the legwork themselves, the most advisable route is to pay a reputable geometra/surveyor (your estate agent should be able to point you in the direction of with one).

They will be able to take on trustworthy workmen for you as well as talk to local authorities for the necessary building permits. Bear in mind that many old rustic homes are out of stone and as such restorating such homes calls for craftsmen experienced working in this material.

A frequently present problem with building projects like this is that your outlay can soar out of control, often by up to 30% or more. Common pitfalls include swimming pools budget up to Euro 20,000); improving access roads allow up to Euro 45 a metre); and working on lawns. However, your surveyor can agree a contract with your construction workers outlining maximum expenditure in addition to an agreed completion date, with financial penalties to apply if they are not stuck to.

Although surveyors design houses to a certain extent, their expertise only goes so far and it is advisable also take on an architect to take charge of design. It is vital from the start that you are abundantly clear what you visualise and that you convey this to the architect. Chopping and changing once work is under way takes up time and a pain in the rear for the rest of your team.

Face up to the probable timescales involved. The purchasing process can take more than 10 weeks and getting work permission a further six months depending on the Commune in charge.

In addition, unless you intend being on-site for most of the time, you should also have a project manager, independent of the builders to oversee everything and help keep the project on track. The architect or surveyor can also do this for you.

By dropping in as often as is necessary, often with no prior warning, we keep the purchaser well-informed about the speed of work with the help of detailed dossiers and photographs. So any issues can be nipped in the bud quickly. We maintain everything on schedule and, even more importantly, ensure the purchaser receives no unpleasant surprises.

About the Author

Homes and Villas Abroad.com, who advertise 5,000 houses for sale Italy and Tuscany property.

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