Want to buy a house in Italy?
If you’re looking to buy a house in Italy keep a look out for the Vendesi sign.
Something that I loved about our house in Italy is that it was never for sale.
As with many properties in Italy my husband found it totally through word of mouth. On the very last day of his trip to purchase a renovation project and future home he happened by chance to meet with someone who knew someone who was interested in selling.
Just like everything in Italy it’s who you know and who you ask that counts.
Having gone through the process of selling multiple houses in Australia ourselves, (yes we used to buy, renovate & sell houses in Australia) it is still a jolt to see only these often faded tiny Vendesi signs on houses for sale.
Part of the process in Australia is having a huge billboard outside your house with glossy images of every aspect of your home at it’s best. It has the contact details for the agent and lists the main features of the property.
Of course ‘dressing’ your house for sale is now a thriving business in Australia and you can even hire furniture (which we did on our last renovation in Australia).
Having a billboard sign on your property makes it easily visible to anyone out house hunting.
Not so in Italy
Unlike Australia there are no massive signs with glossy images, often you’ll just find an A4 size card (usually bright orange) covered in plastic that has the word Vendesi and a phone number. If you’re lucky you’ll get a little two line description as well.
With our house there wasn’t even a sign, we would never have found it without help from someone in the village.
We have sold our own home a number of times now
This seemed such a great way to sell back in Australia, although not so wonderful for those looking to buy. It’s been a long time since we have used an agent to sell a house, but we have never sold on word of mouth alone.
I wonder how those who don’t speak the language or have an Italian heritage fare using this system.
The houses for sale that only the locals know about
Of course we are most interested in those properties that never even get that little Vendesi sign on the front door or gate.
If you want to buy a house in Italy find the area you want to live, & keep a look out for Vendesi signs, even better if you speak the language ask around for the ones that aren’t advertised.
