If you’re thinking about buying property in Italy, or you’re among those who want to invest in foreign property, it’s important to understand how the Italian process works. Italy has a different system than Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Germany, or Belgium – and the very first step can be the most confusing one for foreign buyers.
What is the Proposta di Acquisto
The Proposta di Acquisto is a proposal to enter into a purchase contract, signed by the buyer first.
With it, the buyer formally proposes a price and purchase terms to the seller.
It’s then up to the seller to decide whether to accept the proposal.
If the seller also signs the Proposta di Acquisto, the document becomes binding on both parties and the purchase process officially begins.
What the Proposta di Acquisto includes
For the offer to be clear, unambiguous, and legally usable, the document must include:
- The parties to the contract
Details of the buyer and seller (including Codice Fiscale). - Identification of the property
Land registry data, exact address, unit designation. - Information on furnishings
Whether the property is sold furnished, with a kitchen, appliances, or completely unfurnished. - The offered price
The amount the buyer is proposing. - The final signing date (Rogito)
The specific date by which the notarial deed must take place. - The deposit amount (caparra confirmatoria)
Usually 10–20% of the price, including the payment method and deadline. - Validity of the offer
Usually 5–7 days, during which the seller can accept the proposal.
What happens once the seller accepts the proposal
At this point, the Proposta di Acquisto is legally valid.
However, for the commitment to take on full effect, the buyer must pay the deposit.
The deposit is key because:
- it confirms the buyer’s commitment to proceed with the purchase,
- it’s usually 10–20% of the price,
- paying it is a condition for the process to continue.
The deposit is, depending on the agreement and practice, paid either to:
- the real estate agency (which holds it in escrow), or
- directly to the seller.
The process can vary depending on the region, the real estate agency, or the type of transaction.
Only once the deposit has been paid does the next step begin:
- preparing the Contratto Preliminare (preliminary contract),
or - going straight to organising the notarial signing of the Rogito, if all documents are ready.
What foreign buyers need to watch out for
- Once the Proposta di Acquisto has been accepted, the buyer can no longer simply withdraw.
- If they breach the terms, the deposit may be forfeited.
- If the seller breaches the agreement, they must repay the buyer double the deposit.
- The Italian system differs significantly from the Slovak or Czech one, so it’s important to understand every step
Why this step matters
In many countries, the first step is signing a non-binding expression of interest.
In Italy, however, the Proposta di Acquisto itself already creates a legal obligation with real consequences.
That’s why it’s essential for foreign buyers to:
- understand the content of the document,
- know what obligations arise for them,
- and have assistance when communicating with real estate agencies and notaries.
Planning to buy property in Italy
Sole Consulting helps foreign buyers safely navigate the entire process:
- reviewing Proposta di Acquisto documents,
- communicating with real estate agencies and sellers,
- translating and explaining contracts,
- preparing for the Rogito,
- assistance throughout the entire purchase process.
If you’re looking for professional support or have questions about the first stage of buying property in Italy, get in touch with us.
