The financial side of the dream: We break down the costs of buying and maintaining a home in Italy

The decision to buy a property is not only about the transaction price, but also about understanding the subsequent fixed costs. Fortunately, Calabria compares extremely favourably with the rest of Europe in this respect. The main expense for the investor is the IMU tax on the „second home”, which for a flat worth €50-70,000 is usually between €300 and €700 per year. To this must be added the rubbish tax (TARI), which, for an area of up to 70 m², oscillates between EUR 150-300 per year.

If you choose to live in a block of flats, there will be an administration fee (condominio) - in Scalea these are in the order of €300-800 per year, depending on amenities such as a lift or garden. In total, the annual upkeep of your Italian asylum should close in the range of €1500-2800. With average short-term rental rates in high season (€70-120 per night), just a dozen days of occupancy can cover annual fixed costs, making your investment financially secure and predictable.