But those who dream of owning an Italian farmhouse in Tuscany will find the prices far from romantic. In sought-after parts of the region (so-called Chiantishire, for example) and even in neighbouring Umbria, an average four-bedroom, stone farmhouse can cost about €1.2 million.
The British outpost, however, comprises a relatively small area of Italy. If you venture an hour north into Lunigiana or south into Emilia-Romagna, equivalent properties can cost up to half as much - and there is still plenty for classics scholars to sink their teeth into. "It's more of a buyer's market," says Mr Fawcett, "so long as you are sensible and check all the facts."
For those prepared to explore, there are many lovely, old houses within easy reach of unspoilt coast and countryside all over Italy.
