FAQ

Frequently asked questions

The questions we are asked most often about selling, buying and renting in Florence. If yours isn't here, get in touch.

Selling

Is the valuation free?

Yes, our valuation is free and with no obligation. We visit the property, compare it with recent sales in the area, and give you a realistic estimate within about 2 days.

How long does it take to sell?

We usually sell within 30–60 days, when the price is in line with the market. That's why we always start from a realistic valuation: the right price is the fastest way to sell.

What do you do for sellers?

We handle everything: valuation, photos, listings on our website and the property portals, viewings, negotiation, paperwork, and support all the way to the final deed at the notary.

What documents do I need to sell?

Usually the title deed, the cadastral records and floor plan, the energy certificate (APE) and the documents proving the property complies with planning rules; in a condominium, the building's documents too. We help you collect them, and if something is missing, our technicians can take care of it.

Can you arrange the energy certificate (APE)? How much does it cost?

Yes. The energy certificate is required by law to sell and even to advertise a property. We can arrange it for you, typically for €170–250.

Do you ask for exclusivity?

It depends on the property and your situation — we discuss it with you at the start. Either way, the terms are clear and in writing before we begin.

Buying

Can I get an estimate of the buying costs?

Yes, free of charge. Before you make an offer, we estimate all the costs on top of the price: taxes, the notary and the agency. Taxes vary a lot depending on whether it's your main home, and on whether the seller is a private person or a company.

How long from offer to completion?

Usually one to two months. It depends on the property's documents, on whether there's a mortgage, and on what buyer and seller agree — we give you a realistic timeline when you make the offer.

Offer, preliminary contract and final deed: what's the difference?

The proposta is your written offer with a small deposit; once accepted, it binds both sides. The compromesso is the preliminary contract, with a larger deposit, after the checks on the property. The rogito is the final deed signed at the notary, when you pay the balance and get the keys.

Can you help with a mortgage?

Yes — we work with a mortgage consultant who can help you understand how much you can borrow and prepare the application.

Do you assist buyers in English?

Yes — we assist international buyers in English at every stage, from the first viewing to the final deed.

Landlords

Do you select the tenants?

Yes. We select tenants and check their reliability through income documents — such as payslips and tax returns — before proposing them to you.

Which contract do you recommend to landlords?

We usually recommend a transitional contract or a 3+2 agreed-rent contract, and we choose together the one that best fits your property and your plans.

Do you manage the rental after signing?

Yes — after signing we remain your point of contact for any issues, renewals and terminations.

Renting

What documents do I need to rent?

Besides your ID and Italian tax code (codice fiscale), we ask for proof of income: payslips or a tax return.

How much is the deposit?

The security deposit is 2 months' rent. It's returned at the end of the contract, after the flat is checked, minus any damage or unpaid costs.

Can I leave before the contract ends?

Yes, with 3–6 months' written notice, depending on the type of contract. We explain it precisely before you sign.

Can I register my residence at the flat?

Yes, with 4+4 contracts. It isn't available with other contract types.

Are building fees and bills included?

It depends on the flat, and every listing says so: under Features you'll see whether condominium fees and utilities (electricity, gas, water) are included in the rent.

What's the difference between 4+4, 3+2, transitional and student contracts?

They differ in length and in the rules on rent. A 4+4 lasts four years, renewable for four more; a 3+2 lasts three years plus two, with an agreed rent; a transitional contract runs 1 to 18 months for temporary needs; a university student contract runs 6 to 36 months.

Can I rent from abroad, without seeing the flat?

You can view the flat on a video call and receive photos and the floor plan before deciding. The contract itself is signed in person.

Should I pay a deposit before seeing the flat?

You should never pay anything before you've seen the flat — in person or on a live video call — and without a written contract. Being asked for a transfer to "hold" a room is the most common rental scam.

Students

Do you rent to students, even for one semester?

Yes, we rent to students too, even for a single semester. Send us your dates and we'll check what's available.

What guarantee do students need?

We usually ask for a parent's guarantee. If that isn't possible, we accept a guarantor with a permanent employment contract.

When should I start looking for September?

From June or July. The best student flats go quickly — starting early gives you more choice.

About us

What are your fees?

Our commission depends on the service and the property. We tell you clearly before we start, with no hidden costs.

Which areas do you cover?

We work across Florence — including the historic centre, Oltrarno, Campo di Marte, Porta al Prato, San Jacopino and Isolotto — the surrounding province, Pitigliano and the island of Elba. All areas are on our «Areas» page.

Which languages do you speak?

Italian and English.

Can I view a property on a video call?

Yes — on request we arrange video viewings, especially useful if you're abroad. Message us on WhatsApp to book one.

How quickly do you reply? What are your opening hours?

We reply the same day. Our office is open Monday to Friday, 9:30am–1pm and 2:30–7pm, and closed at weekends.

International clients

Can a foreigner buy property in Italy?

Yes. EU citizens can buy just like Italians; for citizens of other countries the general rule is reciprocity with their own country. You'll need an Italian tax code (codice fiscale), and the notary checks the requirements.

Do I need a codice fiscale? How do I get one?

Yes — you need an Italian tax code to sign a rental contract or buy a property. It's free: you can get it from the Agenzia delle Entrate in Italy, or from the Italian consulate in your country.

Do I need to be in Italy to buy?

Not necessarily for every step: you can give someone a power of attorney (procura) to sign on your behalf, signed before a notary or at an Italian consulate. We'll explain the options for your situation.

Do I need a lawyer as well as a notary?

The notary is required by law and checks that the sale is valid, but acts for both sides. A lawyer isn't required; some foreign buyers choose one for independent advice, especially on the preliminary contract.

Can I rent my flat as a short stay in Florence?

It depends on the area and the permits: Florence requires a municipal authorisation, the national CIN code and registration for the tourist tax, and no new authorisations are issued in the historic centre. We'll check your situation and suggest the best alternative if short stays aren't possible.

Didn't find your answer?

Write to us — we reply the same day.

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