Situated on the southern border of Europe and her peninsula, with surrounding islands blessed with culture and charm.
Because of this geographical position, Italy has direct contact with the main ethnic and cultural areas of the Old World (neo-Latin, Germanic and Slav-Balkan) as well as, through the North Africa countries the world of Arab-Islamic civilization. The climate in Italy is highly diverse and can be far from the stereotypical Mediterranean climate depending on the location. Where as the higher altitudes tend to be cold, wet, and often snowy, the coastal regions enjoy mild winters, and warm dry summers.

KEY FACTS

• Rich culture
• Strong tourist industry
• Established property market
• Low cost airline routes
• Major European airports
• Under 2 hours of flight time from the UK
• New simplified housing legislation
• Home to one of the seven wonders of the world
• 41 protected UNESCO world heritage sites

RENTAL RETURNS AND TOURISM

Italy is the worlds fifth most popular tourist destination with history, beauty and weather, Italy is not prone to be affected by some of the uncertainties that other tourist destinations may have and repeat tourism provides strong support to the rental industry and security for buy to let investors.

CAPITAL APPRECIATION AND THE PROPERTY MARKET

Italy has always been and remains a solid mid-long term investment option, yet more of a holiday home destination until recently times. This is due to the more stable legislation and cheaper southern alternatives becoming available, as well as, low cost airlines frequenting areas such as Calabria. Property prices are expected to rise 9% this year following 7% last year and 80% over all since 1998 showing good consistent growth. In certain hot spots in the south prices are set to rise by 15%.