Buying rural property is a substantial and far-ranging step. This is true wherever in the world you’re aiming to buy, but purchasing real estate in your home country is one thing, and investing abroad is another. This article aims to shed light on the processes involved in buying property in Italy and provide readers with tips on how to turn their desire to buy into a win-win investment.
So, are you ready to embark on a journey to find your dream rustic property in Italy? Look no further than Irecom and its legal partner ILF – Italy Law Firm! We have all that you need to provide safe transactions and long-lasting businesses. Whether you’re seeking a picturesque piece of land, a charming Italian farmhouse, or a luxurious villa, Italy has it all.
In this guide, we will explore the various lucrative options available in the Belpaese, like:
- buying land in a region where the price per acre (hectar) is destined to rise;
- restoring a farmhouse to create a compelling agritourism activity;
Land for Sale in Italy: Building Plots vs Agricultural Property
Are you envisioning building your own Italian oasis from scratch? Discover the allure of land for sale in Italy, including the stunning landscapes and diverse regions that offer unique opportunities for your dream project. From rolling hills in Tuscany to coastal plots in Sardinia, explore the possibilities that Italian land has to offer.
If we talk about building plots, these have now become rare and are sold for about:
- 650 euros per square meter in Central Italy;
- 600 euros per square meter in Northern Italy;
- 480 euros per square meter in Southern Italy.
As for agricultural property (here you can find the specific laws), however, how much does one hectare cost in Italy?
On average, we can find a hectare in good condition at a figure between 30000 and 45000 euros to a maximum of 60000 euros if it is in excellent condition – that is, if it has been worked steadily and kept clean, ready to accommodate vine, olive, horticultural and other plants.
Agricultural lands in Italy can be of various types, depending on their ground composition. The main types are:
- Clayey
- Loamy
- Sandy
- Loamy-sandy.
Average land prices in Pisa County
Here you can have an example of land prices in Tuscany. The province (county) of Pisa is one with the highest value for money, with good aspirations for investment growth.
| Land Type | Minimum (€/hectare) | Maximum (€/hectare) |
| Arable Land | 10,000 | 29,000 |
| Vegetable Garden | 13,000 | 39,000 |
| Orchard | 11,000 | 26,500 |
| Vineyard | 21,000 | 60,000 |
| Olive Grove | 21,000 | 47,000 |
| High Forest | 9,000 | 19,000 |
The cost of the land can start from a minimum of 15,000 euros but can also exceed 60,000 euros per hectare. The cost depends on the quality and type of the land.
Once an agricultural land is purchased, it can be used for livestock breeding, cultivation of vegetables, fruits, and vegetables, establishing vineyards, or simply renting it out.
Exploring the Possibilities: Constructing Your Property on a Piece of Land
How to convert agricultural land into building land? To carry out the change of use, you need to apply to the Municipal Technical Office where the terreno is located. Specifically, a licensed professional is in charge of submitting the application along with all the necessary documents. However, in recent years, several laws have been enacted in Italy that prohibit land consumption, cementing.
Thus, for example, says the rule of the Tuscany region (the one with Florence, Siena, Pisa, Lucca, etc.) about Nuclei Rurali (Rural cores):
The regulations of territorial and urban planning govern the changes occurring in rural clusters mentioned in Article 64, paragraph 1, letter b), including the classification of the buildings within them, as well as the scattered buildings in the rural areas.
The regulations of territorial and urban planning establish guidelines with the following objectives:
- Ensuring the preservation of the original settlement morphology and historic building types of significant value when undertaking any renovation, expansion, or construction of necessary facilities and infrastructure for the local communities.
- Safeguarding the traditional settlement heritage with landscape importance and promoting the preservation and restoration of the rural characteristics of the core areas.
What then can be an economical alternative? Even agricultural land has exceptions with respect to buildability. In particular, the law stipulates that premises called annesso agricolo ‘agricultural annex’ can be built for the purpose of equipment management, vehicle shelter, as well as personnel refreshment. How many square meters can be built on agricultural land?
Local regulations often prohibit building on agricultural land of less than 10,000 square meters, but there are differences between regions, usually the building index is around 0.03 cubic meters per square meter.
If you own agricultural land with an area of one hectare, it is possible to build 300 square meters of building. This corresponds exactly to more or less a dwelling with an area of 100 square meters considering a floor space of 3 meters.
Where to buy your land in Italy?
And it is precisely with respect to geographical coordinates that a foreigner can do real business in Italy today. The regions where land costs the least are those in the central south that have not yet come under the lens of speculative investment: Basilicata (about 16,500 euros per hectare), Sardinia (17,500 euros per hectare) and Molise (20,500 euros per hectare).
Italian Farmhouses for Sale
If you want to make sure that you can take advantage of your investment right away, without waiting for permit releases, changes of use, and the end of constraints related to rural areas, there are alternatives.
Experience the rustic charm of Italian farmhouses that exude history and tradition.
Let Irecom helps you uncovering the market for Italian farmhouses and explore the potential to restore these captivating properties into your own countryside retreat.
From vineyards in Piedmont to olive groves in Umbria, find your ideal Italian farmhouse and embrace the rural lifestyle.
Investing in Tuscany
Tuscany is divided into different regions, each with its own character and allure. The rolling hills of Chianti beckon with vineyards and olive groves, while the Val d’Orcia captivates with its UNESCO World Heritage Sites and breathtaking panoramas. The Maremma region showcases untouched natural beauty, and the Etruscan Coast reveals a captivating blend of history and coastal splendor. Each part of Tuscany offers a distinct experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Tuscan countryside.
Types of Tuscan Farmhouses
Tuscan farmhouses come in various styles, each reflecting the distinct architectural heritage of the area, from Chianti to Maremma, from Crete Senesi to Elba Island. From the grandiose country estates to the humble cottages, there is a farmhouse to suit every taste. Explore the sturdy stone walls, terracotta roofs, and charming courtyards that characterize these traditional dwellings. Whether it’s a sprawling estate or a cozy cottage, each farmhouse offers a unique blend of authenticity and rustic charm.
Thriving Businesses: the Agritourisms
Tuscan farmhouses not only provide a glimpse into the region’s history but also serve as thriving businesses. Many of these properties have been transformed into agriturismi, charming farm stays that offer visitors an authentic experience of rural life. Guests can indulge in farm-to-table cuisine, sip on locally produced wines, and participate in activities such as olive picking and wine tasting. These agriturismi provide a perfect blend of relaxation, cultural immersion, and a chance to support local sustainable farming practices.
Here in this table you have an example of luxury Tuscan farmhouses features and prices.
| Farmhouse | Place | Int. (sqm) | Exteriors (ha) | Bedrooms | Bathrooms | Vineyard (ha) | Bottle Production (max) | Olive Oil Production (hl) | Price |
| Organic Wine Farmhouse | Castellina in Chianti, Siena, Tuscany | 4,802 | 135.6 | 10 | 10 | 4.7 | 415,000 | 22.9 | 1.100.0000 euros |
| Agriturismo with Stable | Umbertide, Perugia, Umbria | 918 | 13.6 | 12 | 14 | 2.2 | – | – | 400.000 euros |
| Tuscan Tenuta with 24,8 HA Chianti Classico Vineyards | San Casciano in Val di Pesa, Florence Tuscany | 400 | 31.2 | 4 | 3 | 24.8 | 170,000 | – | 1.600.000 |
Farming Traditions
Tuscany’s farmhouses are deeply rooted in the region’s agricultural traditions. From vineyards producing renowned wines to olive groves yielding high-quality extra virgin olive oil, the land sustains a thriving agricultural industry. You are not only buying land here. Your investment is also on the heritage, on the centuries passed through.
Producing wine and oil are not the only lucrative activities you can start here. Transforming a farmhouse into an agriturismo is one of the most affordable ways to start your journey in Italy.
You will gain incentives from the Italian government, while having the possibilities to offer tourists a true part of Italy. Visitors can witness age-old farming techniques, participate in harvest activities, and gain insights into the art of winemaking and olive oil production. The connection between the land and the local community is palpable, creating an authentic and unforgettable experience.
