There are plenty of beautiful regions to choose from, many of which are not as hyped or as costly as classics such as the likes of Tuscany and the Lakes. Today the far south beckons shrewd property purchasers who are discovering such areas as Calabria, which is tipped for high annual growth and it stunning natural beauty is enticing even the most demanding of beach, golf or sun worshippers.

Italy offers investors a readily established EU economy in which to operate, meaning a quality infrastructure and a stable political environment. With new low cost international flights arriving into otherwise isolated areas of Italy, mini emerging markets are to be found in these regions. New flights bring with them an influx of tourists, all seeking a piece of glorious Italian lifestyle and beauty just 2 ¼ hours flight from home. For this reason, today’s buyers are loving Calabria and, with the very recent introduction of direct flights from the UK to local airports at Reggio de Calabria and Kamezia, the area expects to see property prices increase almost overnight in new resorts such as beachfront Jewel of the Sea. Visitors looking for value for money and that perfect long weekend break away from Northern Europe in the warm Italian sun will find all they need here: breathtaking sights, perfect stretches of sandy beach and plenty of rural Italian charm, while investors are excited by the fantastic rental potential and growth rates properties in this area are now offering.

The Italian Buying Process
This is a very straightforward procedure. The fun part is scouring this beautiful country for the right opportunity, while the international property investment network (IPIN) will gladly help you select the best opportunity in your chosen market, whether that is an up market apartment in a stylish Italian city, a jet-set paradise in Tuscany or an off-plan purchase in Calabria’s new market.

• Once you agree a price and confirm the total amount due, including all costs, you will be ready to sign a Purchase Agreement (Proposta Irrevocabile d’acquisto) that is irrevocable and signed by both the purchaser and the vendor.

• Next a Preliminary Contract (compromesso) will be signed and at this stage you will need to pay a 10% deposit to the vendor which goes towards the final purchase price. Remember, this amount is non-refundable if you change your mind about going through with the purchase. Meanwhile, if the vendor pulls out, he must pay you back double the amount. The Preliminary Contract outlines the property’s specifications, all terms and conditions of the sale, including price, completion date and any vendor guarantees to be included.

• Another deposit is then payable for one third of the purchase price, known as the Caparra.

• The final stage of the buying process is the presentation of the relevant documents that have been prepared by the Notary and signature of the Sale Contact Recogito) by both the purchaser and the vendor.

Additional costs: You would be well advised to build into you budget at least 10% of the purchase price to cover all professional fees, plus another 10% for property VAT and 5% for utility connections. In addition, normal running costs such as council tax (Imposta Comunale Sugli Immobili) will be due as well as community fees if you have bought on a development.

All in all, Italy offers style, fashion, food and some of the most spectacular cities of Europe. This factor, combined with a great climate, breathtaking scenery and a strong, well supported property market, makes for an ideal investment, holiday or lifestyle choice. The mini emerging market in Calabria offers very exciting opportunities and is well worth a closer look for a wise investment into the idyllic charms of rural Italy.