Real estate investments in Italy

This document is intended to help you understand and deal with the risks involved in a real estate transaction in Italy.
Although the Italian legislation can be very effective in protecting real estate investments, a large number of investors experience recurrent frauds such as the following ones:
• Buyers losing deposits because the builders become insolvent.
• Buyers who bought unaware of outstanding mortgages, tax liabilities or other charges against the subject property.
• Buyers finding themselves with unauthorized buildings

In my professional experience I noticed very often that clients are facing problems that could have been very easily prevented taking independent legal advice before the point where there is a legally binding agreement such as a “Reservation offer” or a “Preliminary contract”.
The property that you are considering to buy might have legal and structural problems which are not always evident unless you are a professional of the field.
The consequence might be you not being able to sell your property for a long time and maybe facing major legal problems.

Gastro Property Investing: Italy

Although Italy was not officially formed until the 19th century, its cuisine dates as far back as Roman times. Over the years the flavours of the country have evolved extensively and have been heavily influenced by conquerors, neighbouring territories and political upheavals, as well as the discovery of the New World and of course the produce available in the various regions.

Italian cooking developed and became popular throughout the world, which is reflected in the quantity of restaurants that are peppered globally that serve the tastes of Italy. Particularly popular are pasta and pizza establishments in countries such as England and America.

However, differences in the cuisine can still be seen today shown in the distinctions between the North and South. Regional ingredients and dishes vary reflecting the country's diverse history and culture, offering a lavish array of flavours to tantalise the taste buds.

TEXT-Moody's release on Italian leasing ABS market

In Q2 2008, the sector displayed an average Constant Prepayment Rate of 3.40%. Prepayments are not a contractual provision in Italian leasing contracts, but have to be agreed with the originator each time that prepayments are considered. This market characteristic explains the general low levels in prepayments that are seen in this sector.

Typical Italian leasing backed securitizations hold a portfolio which comprises three types of assets: Auto, Equipment and Real Estate. However, some transactions hold only single pools, which may also comprise these three types of assets. Moody's Economy.com is forecasting that GDP growth in Italy will slow to 0.4% this year, from 1.4% last year. This is on the back of weaker private consumption, fixed investment and export growth. 'Italian business confidence remained on a downward trend in July, falling to its lowest level in over six years,' says Nitesh Shah, a Moody's Economist and co-author of the report. Furthermore, he adds 'since a majority of the leases in this segment are utilised for commercial purposes, this development might have an impact on the Italian leasing ABS market.'

Italy & UAE: ACI and Ferretti Group launch Ferretti & Pershing Luxury Beach Residences in Dubai

ACI Real Estate and Ferretti Group today launched two luxury waterfront residences, “Ferretti Luxury Beach Residence” and “Pershing Luxury Beach Residence”. Announced earlier this year, the two companies joined hands in what is believed to set new trends in luxury waterfront living. The freehold ownership project branded as “Marine Legends”, valued at about UAE 6 billion Dirham - over USD 1.6 billion - and situated at the Waterfront, offers a sprawling 1,969,607 Sq Ft of saleable area.
“This deal has furthered the vision we have at ACI Real Estate, which is to bring world class luxury living to Dubai. The Ferretti Group has been a leading luxury brand for decades now. We at ACI Real Estate want to blend Ferretti’s expertise into our real estate projects and provide our customers with the best of both worlds”, said Robin Lohmann, Managing Director of ACI Real Estate.
Vincenzo Cannatelli, CEO of Ferretti S.p.A., added: “The whole world is coming to Dubai and at ACI Real Estate we have found our match. This strategic venture is a result of mutual professional admiration and recognition of our common values.”

First development in Tuscany nearing completion

The call of this Etruscan homeland is ever so strong in the idyllic setting of the Tuscan medieval towns, surrounded by enchanting castles and rustic farmhouses. Keeping in mind Tuscany’s offering of a rich combination of historic cities, culture, warm climate and easy lifestyle, Frank Salt Real Estate and Homes of Quality has been giving Maltese citizens the opportunity to own their own piece of Tuscany over the past few years, offering a selection of developments scattered across this sought-after region of the Italian peninsula, ideal as holiday homes and as a unique investment opportunity.

Vepri is one such development that is now nearing completion and which has already opened its doors to its first residents. Set in the Chianti region, this hamlet of tranquillity and agricultural tradition is within easy reach of Siena, Arezzo (25 minutes) and Florence (35 minutes).

This newly built development is set on what was formerly a sizeable farm that has been reorganised into 33 luxurious apartments. A few remaining units are still available for sale and are being sold fully furnished; they offer a tranquil atmosphere, breathtaking views and total privacy.