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Real Estate in Cinque Terre, Italy | Expat Exchange
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Corniglia, one of the 5 villages in Italy's Cinque Terre

Real Estate in Cinque Terre, Italy

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 24, 2024

Summary: People living in Cinque Terre, Italy offer advice about real estate. How do you find a home in Cinque Terre? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?

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Italian For A While

How do I find a place to live in Cinque Terre?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Cinque Terre, involves several steps. First, you need to decide on the type of accommodation you want. This could be a villa, an apartment, or a house. Next, you should research online real estate platforms such as Immobiliare.it, Casa.it, and Idealista. These websites provide listings of available properties in Cinque Terre. You can filter your search based on your preferences such as location, price, size, and type of property. Another option is to hire a local real estate agent. They have extensive knowledge of the local market and can help you find a property that suits your needs and budget. You should also consider visiting Cinque Terre in person. This will give you a better feel for the area and allow you to view properties firsthand. Once you've found a property you're interested in, you'll need to negotiate the price and terms of the lease or purchase. It's recommended to hire a lawyer to help you with this process to ensure everything is legal and above board. Finally, once the agreement is signed, you'll need to register your new address with the local town hall. This is a legal requirement in Italy and is necessary for things like setting up utilities and receiving mail. Remember, finding a place to live in Cinque Terre can take time, so it's important to be patient and thorough in your search," explained one person living in Cinque Terre, Italy.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Cinque Terre?

"A typical expat home or apartment in Cinque Terre, is often a charming, rustic property that blends seamlessly with the region's traditional architecture. These homes are usually located in or near the five small coastal villages that make up Cinque Terre, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The interiors are often compact yet comfortable, reflecting the simplicity and warmth of Italian living. Many of these homes feature traditional Italian design elements, such as terracotta floors, wooden beams, and whitewashed walls. The kitchens are typically small but functional, often equipped with essential appliances and a dining area. The living rooms are cozy, often featuring comfortable seating and a fireplace for the colder months. Bedrooms in these homes are usually modest in size, with comfortable beds and storage space. Some homes may also have a small balcony or terrace, providing a perfect spot to enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Despite their rustic charm, many of these homes are equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and modern bathrooms. Some expat homes may also have access to a shared or private garden, a rare and coveted feature in these densely built villages. While some expats choose to live in the bustling heart of the villages, others prefer the tranquility of the surrounding hillsides, where homes often come with vineyards or olive groves. Regardless of the location, living in Cinque Terre offers expats a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the slow-paced, idyllic lifestyle of this beautiful Italian region," said one person in Cinque Terre.

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What is the average cost of housing in Cinque Terre?

If you are thinking about moving to Cinque Terre, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Cinque Terre can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation. For a standard apartment, the cost can range from moderately priced to quite expensive, especially during the peak tourist season. Luxury accommodations or villas can be significantly more expensive. It's also important to note that prices can fluctuate based on the specific village within Cinque Terre, with some being more costly than others," explained one expat living in Cinque Terre, Italy.

Should I buy or rent a home in Cinque Terre?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Cinque Terre, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Cinque Terre, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Cinque Terre for a long period or frequently visit, buying a home could be a good investment. Owning a property allows you to have a permanent base, and you could potentially earn income by renting it out when you're not there. However, buying a home involves a significant financial commitment and comes with additional costs such as maintenance, taxes, and insurance. It also requires a long-term commitment, as selling a property can take time and may not always be possible at a profit. On the other hand, renting a home in Cinque Terre offers more flexibility. It's a good option if you're planning a shorter stay or if you prefer not to have the financial commitment and responsibility of owning a property. Renting allows you to live in the area and enjoy all it has to offer without the long-term commitment. However, renting doesn't provide the same stability as owning a home, and you won't benefit from any increases in property value. You may also face restrictions from landlords, such as not being able to decorate or make changes to the property. In conclusion, both buying and renting a home in Cinque Terre have their pros and cons. It's important to carefully consider your personal circumstances and financial situation before making a decision. Consulting with a real estate professional or financial advisor could also be beneficial," explained one person living in Cinque Terre, Italy.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Corniglia, one of the 5 villages in Italy's Cinque Terre

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