For many people looking to live the Italian countryside getaway dream, Sardinia is an attractive option – and this is easy to see why! With rolling hills, picturesque mountain ranges, and breathtaking coastlines, it really is like something from a dream.
But how exactly can you purchase land in Sardinia, and what do prospective buyers need to know?
Where Is Sardinia?
Sardinia is an autonomous province of Italy, located as an Island in the Mediterranean sea. It is the second largest island after Sicily, and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike – thanks in part to the rich variety of landscapes, the beautiful oceans, and the seemingly peaceful way of life.
Is Sardinia Part Of Italy?
While Sardinia is one of the 20 regions of Italy, it is one of many with domestic autonomy that was awarded to the region following a special statute.
This means that, while technically a part of Italy, the region can govern itself on many matters pertaining to the law.
Is Sardinia Expensive?
Despite the paradise image of Sardinia, it is comparatively one of the cheapest regions of Italy to live – making it even more attractive for those looking to put down roots.
While wages are generally lower in Sardinia, the cost of living is also one of the lowest in Europe.
Is Sardinia A Good Investment?
Generally speaking, Sardinia is considered a good investment opportunity, and the current market sees the region on the up and up – with numerous development opportunities opening themselves up to those with the means and the inclination.
Until recently, Sardinia has remained a relatively untapped market – but be warned, this is currently changing, and very soon the prices of property will begin (and continue) to skyrocket.
Is The Property Market Stable?
In the current climate, the property market is relatively stable all throughout Italy – namely due to the fact that the country enjoys a large influx of tourists and outside industry, and that the country remains a popular and desirable destination for people all around the world.
Can Foreigners Buy In Italy?
Generally speaking, Italy as a whole is seen as a ‘no restrictions’ country – although obviously this isn’t true in the whole sense. However, for citizens of most countries, there are little restrictions when it comes to buying land or property in the country – regardless of region.
Even citizens from the United Kingdom – which left the European Union during ‘Brexit’ – can purchase land and property in the country without restriction.
Post-Brexit Rules
If you are from the United Kingdom, and you purchased property in the country before January 2021 (the end of the Brexit transition period), then you should not require any new permits or registration paperwork.
However, in the time following January 2021, any new buyers will require documentation to prove their rights under the UK withdrawal agreement. This means presenting something like an EU residency certificate – or some similar document.
Does Property Entitle You To Citizenship?
While foreigners are more than welcome to purchase property and land all throughout Italy – including Sardinia – this does not entitlement them to instant citizenship.
For those looking to spend prolonged periods of time in the country, they will need to examine the various visa requirements to see what options they have at their disposal.
Generally speaking, tourists from the United Kingdom can remain in the country as a tourist for a period of 90 days. For those visitors coming from the United States, the period of stay is 3 months or less.
Where To Find Property & Land
There are many outlets to view and purchase property in Italy and the surrounding regions.
Property Agencies
One of the main ways to find and view property and land in Sardinia is to contact property agencies in the region – or indeed on the mainland.
Tourists commonly buy land throughout the country, and as such these agencies are more than happy to help you with whatever it is you are wanting to do.
They can also potentially point you in the direction of other resources that could be helpful, as well as any pitfalls that you need to be aware of as a foreign first time buyer.
Property Websites
Another resource available is to check out Italian property websites. There are numerous websites, and while they are certainly less personal than contacting an agent, they are a good way to get a sense of the market, view examples of property that is available, as well as a sense of the prices.
What Pitfalls Should Buyers Avoid?
As mentioned above, there are numerous pitfalls that can befall buyers, and being aware of them can save a lot of time, money, and heartache in the long run.
Never Buy Unseen Property
This applies for both land and buildings – NEVER purchase land you have not personally viewed.
This should go without saying, but people can indeed be sucked in by land and property scams, wherein they put substantial amounts of money down for property that either doesn’t exist, or which is already owned by someone else.
This is why viewing property yourself, and only operating with licensed agents, are the best methods to ensure you keep your money in your pocket.
Check For The Right To Sell
On the back of the above point, you should also check to see that the advertiser actually has the right to sell the land they are showing.
This is another common scam, and there have been many first time buyers who have turned up to properties, and instead of arriving at their new home, they arrive at someone else’s.
Be Wary Of Markets
Do your research before you transfer any money, and see what the prices look like in regions you are interested in.
This can help you to avoid getting scammed, or indeed paying more money than the place is actually worth. You can get independent valuations on land and property, and these can help you get the best price possible.
Similarly, be cautious regarding cheap property. Everyone loves a bargain, but if the price is simply too good to be true, then it usually is. These places can be wrecks, devoid of electricity and plumbing, and ultimately represent an entirely different and more expensive project.
Avoid Sellers Who Won’t Meet
If the seller or agent does not want to meet in person, then avoid them – agents want to make a sale, so apprehension on their part just screams ‘shady’.
Final Thoughts
And there we have it, everything you need to know about buying land in Sardinia, and some of the things that prospective buyers need to be aware of.
Sardinia is a beautiful part of Italy, and as such is a source of much attraction for buyers from all around the world. And who could blame them?
With rolling hills, beautiful coastlines, and so much scope for development and growing opportunities, it really does have everything to offer.
So if you are looking to purchase some new land abroad, then why not opt for Sardinia, Italy?
