Explore northern Italy with the Giro d’Italia

We look at five locations in five of Italy’s most popular northern regions, each surrounded by stunning scenery. Northern Italy is so accessible, and always rates highly for quality of life. Whether you enjoy the buzz of a city or relaxing by a lake, there is something for everyone. I have taken another look at the route of next year’s famous cycle race, the Giro d’Italia, and picked one place in each of the five northern regions that it passes through. One or two you may have heard of, but the great thing about Italy is discovering those amazing places that are less well known to tourists.
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Discover Italy with the Giro d’Italia 2020

The route of this world-famous road cycling race has just been announced, and we are all excited to see what towns and villages it will pass through in May 2020. The TV coverage will highlight some famous landmarks but also lesser known towns. You may even spot your dream home.    
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The notary and your Italian house purchase

Buying a property in Italy has different processes to the UK or USA, but they are nothing to worry about – they are there to protect you. Read about the role of the notary in your Italian house purchase.
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7 steps to a stress-free renovation

Italy has many affordable properties for sale in need of renovation. Many of them have charming features that entice buyers who have an eye for how a characterful property can become a home. My husband and I found it extremely rewarding renovating ours, and we picked up a few tips on the way! Here are our 7 points for a smooth renovation.
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Italy auctions palaces and historic houses

The Italian government is selling off a selection of its state-owned properties in an ambitious plan to raise €1.2billion. Most exciting are the buildings of historic interest and those in prime city centre locations.
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Could you live next to a UNESCO World Heritage site?

Italy has 55 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, more than any other country. This recognition and the high visitor numbers each site attracts, demonstrate how highly regarded Italy’s culture, archaeology, environment and landscape are in the world. What’s amazing is that you can actually live near many of these sites.
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Could you get paid to move to Molise?

Move to Molise and start a business, and you could be rewarded with 700 euros a month over the first three years. This tiny Italian region hopes this exciting new initiative will help regenerate small villages that are becoming depopulated, and bring in new life to its rural communities. So what are you waiting for?
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How to ditch the daily grind and make an income in Italy

If you’re dreaming of a new life in Italy, there’s no reason to wait until retirement. With a bit of creativity, a move is the perfect chance to ditch the 9-5 to be your own boss, or to make a sideways career step – so many buyers successfully open holiday businesses, work as English teachers, writers, estate agents, sport coaches and more. And so can you!
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Settling in – your town’s festival

Settling in to life in Italy, you’ll soon discover that your new community has a party every year – the town festival (“festa”).  Indeed when you buy a home in Italy you don’t just acquire a property somewhere warm and gorgeous, you become part of a community with ancient traditions. Join in!
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Italy property market update: August 2019

This year so far has seen an increase in Italian properties being sold, but housing prices are still well below their pre-recession levels and it is a buyer’s market. This is great news for those looking to buy property in Italy, as now could be the time to buy ahead of the curve to see a strong return on your investment in the future.
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