The new Real Estate Report 2023 by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, a global luxury brokerage network, has analysed the real estate markets of Europe, India and the United Arab Emirates, focusing on the dynamics of the sector and its financial coding. As far as the Italian market is concerned, there has been a decisive increase in the supply of luxury properties such as castles, farmhouses and country houses, which are attracting foreign investors interested in transforming them into accommodation activities such as charming hotels or B&Bs.
After years complicated by the pandemic and its implications, the global real estate market is recovering, but moving at a much less frenetic pace. Against this backdrop, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices experts from Italy, Greece, India, Spain, Portugal, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom outlined trends and themes that are shaping global real estate this year.
New luxury property offerings in Italy
In a general context characterised by new opportunities, as far as the Italian landscape is concerned, this is the best time for foreign buyers to invest in Italy's properties in the countryside or on the coast. This is due both to the financial incentives that the Italian government is making available with the aim of increasing interest from abroad, and to the generational changes taking place, which are bringing high-end heritage properties onto the market for the first time ever.
The Italian real estate landscape
"Today, the Italian real estate landscape has a growing number of prominent properties, such as castles, farmhouses, forts and wineries, compared to the inventory that Milan offers," explains Marcus Benussi, Managing Partner & General Counsel. "The offer has changed, making unprecedented opportunities available to those who want to turn their lives around. Thanks to new legislation, whoever invests in these types of properties, if they are private investments, the incentives are extraordinary. At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, we are seeing a growth in demand for these types of structures that investors are using for accommodation such as charming hotels or B&Bs".
Italy is therefore seeing properties appearing on its real estate market that, until a few years ago, would have been almost impossible to sell: castles and large luxury properties forming part of heritages that are no longer suited to the needs of the younger generations. Indeed, young people prefer to live in houses that they rent, which are much smaller in size than the villas they inherited, which are economically unaffordable and almost unnecessarily large.
These properties, in the mountains or the countryside, attract the luxury buyer from abroad. Especially after the pandemic, there are many who choose to buy Italian properties that have remained in certain families for generations. A situation that only a few years ago was unthinkable, to say the least. "This type of property would have been very difficult to sell before the pandemic, when we had not yet witnessed a radical change in personal life perspectives and today's quest for a better quality of life," Benussi comments.
Where does Kyle Walker live? Discover his €12,000-a-week apartment in Milan
Kyle Walker, the well-known English defender, has recently moved to Milan to join AC Milan, leaving Manchester City after eight successful years. His new adventure in Italy has sparked the interest of the English tabloids and Italian fans, who are eager to find out how Walker is settling into life in the Italian city. But where does Kyle Walker live in Milan? According to the English press, the footballer is residing in the beautiful district of City Life. Let's find out more.
Castello Thomson: a rare opportunity to own a historic Lake Como castle for €9,995,000
Situated in the prestigious Carate Urio, Castello Thomson is a one-of-a-kind property that perfectly blends history with luxury. Originally built atop a 9th-century tower, this extraordinary estate has been transformed into a magnificent residence by the renowned Venetian architect Tobia Scarpa. For those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity, the property on the market for €9,995,000 and listed on idealista offers an unparalleled opportunity to own a historic castle overlooking the stunning Lak
Big spenders from abroad favour villas in Italy (especially on Lake Como or in Tuscany)
In some of Italy’s most exclusive areas, the majority of demand for luxury villas or apartments (with average prices exceeding one and a half million euros) comes from foreign buyers. This is revealed by a report from idealista/data, which also highlights that the top 10 most sought-after locations among wealthy buyers worldwide for single-family homes consist solely of towns in Tuscany or on Lake Como.
Luxury in Italy: "Foreign investors continue to see Italy as a safe and prestigious destination"
On the other side of the property market—closely linked to credit and its uncertainties—the luxury real estate sector continues to thrive, showing no signs of slowing down even this year. But why? What drives the dynamics of such a complex segment?
The buying process for luxury properties in Italy
Italy is renowned for its captivating landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious lifestyle. If you’re considering purchasing a luxury property in this stunning country, the process may seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and guidance, it can be a smooth and exciting journey. In this article, we will walk you through the essential steps of the buying process for luxury properties in Italy, from understanding the market to finalising the deal.
The most sought-after ski resorts in Italy for luxury real estate
The charm of the mountains and luxury ski resorts continues to attract the attention of international investors. According to the Ski Report 2025 by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, the stunning landscapes of Northern Italy are once again in the spotlight, having seen a significant rise in the value of luxury real estate in mountain resorts and lakeside areas, driven by steadily growing demand.
Exclusive modern villa with Lake Garda views in Torri del Benaco
Nestled in the scenic hills of Torri del Benaco, this extraordinary modern villa offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and breathtaking views of Lake Garda. Priced at €3,000,000, this property stands out as a true masterpiece for those seeking refined living in one of Italy’s most enchanting regions.