How safe is it buying in Sicily?

The Italian law provides probably more safeguards for the purchaser than in England. Obviously it is a fact of life that there are people who see a foreigner and see dollar signs before their eyes. Modicasa simply refuses to work with non-registered agents and agents who, in our opinion, do not reach the standard we and our clients require.  The notaio carries out checks to protect the purchaser, as he is required to do as an independent functionary of the state. Obviously buying a property is stressful enough when you speak the language and understand the law. In a foreign country it can be a nightmare. Modicasa will offer advice every step of the way throughout your purchase.

How much is estate agents commission?

The rate at which an estate agent can charge commission is technically set by the camera di Commercio of the province where you are buying. It is usually, in Sicily, 2%. However, more and more agents are now asking 3% to cover their costs. We have heard of disreputable agents asking up to 5% from foreign buyers.  If someone does so, just refuse.

Do I have to be in Sicily to buy?

There are certain procedures that cannot be done by third parties. A bank account must also be opened in your physical presence, a new law against terrorism and the recycling of money. Everything else can be handled by Modicasa if you give us a mandate to act on your behalf.

Are there English speaking architects and geometras?

Very few!  Because Modicasa covers a wide area, we have built up a network of trusted architects, geometras, tecnicos, calcoliste, and all the associated professions that are necessary to restore or build a house. We have good links with the urban departments in the area. You tell us what you need, and we’ll find the man for the job, whether it be an English speaking lawyer/solicitor or a man with a van for a local removal.

What is prelazione?

There are horror stories on the internet about people who have bought only to see a neighbour exercise their right of prelazione and take their property away from them. This is very rare, and fortunately, very easy to avoid. Simple checks carried out before the purchase can verify if there is a right of prelazione, and if it could be taken.

Is Italian bureaucracy the nightmare I suspect it is?

It can be.  Even with internet and computers the Italians still prefer to have everything in hardcopy and preferably in triplicate. It is difficult to achieve anything without being armed with a sheaf of photocopies of essential documents before leaving the house. However, the stories about having to grease palms are nowadays few and far between. Apart from the inevitable queues the procedures are slowly becoming simplified.

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