According to the RE/MAX European Housing Trend Report 2024, the lack of balconies and gardens, combined with rising energy costs, is fuelling housing dissatisfaction in Italy and across Europe. In line with the European average, 24% of Italians want to move home. Among them, 17% plan to relocate within a year, while 28% are considering moving abroad to improve their financial situation.
Factor shaping the European property market
The RE/MAX report provides an in-depth analysis of the changes shaping the European property market, highlighting the impact of financial pressures, evolving preferences, and a growing focus on sustainability. The study is based on responses from 20,000 people across 21 European countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Finland, Greece, Ireland, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, and Italy. The findings reveal a property market in transformation, driven by global challenges and the rising cost of living, which are prompting many families to reconsider their housing needs.
Outdoor spaces and energy efficiency are top priorities
Italians looking for a new home place great importance on outdoor spaces: 52% consider balconies, terraces, or gardens essential, a figure higher than the European average of 44%. Factors such as internal layout (9%) and proximity to the workplace (16%) are less significant, indicating a greater focus on well-being and quality of life.
Energy efficiency is another key aspect: 44% of Italians want a home equipped with energy-saving solutions. Additionally, 26% seek proximity to green spaces, 24% consider access to services such as schools and shops essential, while 23% prioritise a good public transport network.
The impact of housing costs
Across Europe, housing expenses are among the most significant items in household budgets, with an average of 38% of monthly income allocated to mortgages, rent, and utility bills. In Italy, 39% of respondents report an increase in housing costs over the past year, while 58% consider the financial sustainability of their home a top priority.
Although the rise in housing costs in Italy is lower than the European average (-15%), a significant number of Italians are contemplating a move abroad to improve their financial situation.
Outlook for the property market in Italy in 2025
"The forecasts from the RE/MAX Italia Research Centre indicate a dynamic 2025, with falling interest rates and a more stable job market," says Dario Castiglia, CEO & Founder of RE/MAX Italia. "Greater clarity in the global political landscape and easier access to credit are already helping to boost consumer confidence."
The desire for homeownership remains strong: 72% of Italians own at least one property, and 26% have more than one. This goal, shared across Europe, continues to represent not only a personal milestone but also a valuable investment opportunity for the future.
Property for sale in Italy with gardens
Italy is known for its beautiful landscapes, and many properties for sale come with gardens of varying sizes and styles. These gardens can range from small courtyards to expansive estates with lush greenery, fruit trees, and even vineyards.
The 5 Italian regions with the fastest rising house prices
The trend in Italian house prices in 2024 and 2025 confirms a clear pattern: the North is driving growth, while Central and Southern Italy show more moderate expansion, with some regions even experiencing a decline.
Buying a home in Italy costs 16% more in 2025 compared to 2019
Buying a home in Italy is becoming increasingly expensive. Compared to 2019, the average cost of purchasing a property has risen by 16%. Milan remains the most expensive city per square metre, while Trieste has recorded the sharpest increases. According to a study conducted by the Centre for Training and Research on Consumer Issues (C.R.C.) in collaboration with Assoutenti, an average worker now needs 11.6 years of salary to buy a home, a clerk requires 9.7 years, while a manager needs only four
From London to Mussomeli for a 1 euro house: "I'll never have a mortgage again"
George Laing is a 30-year-old Englishman who took part in Italy's 1 euro house project by purchasing a property in Mussomeli, in the heart of Sicily. From there, a great adventure began, as he is carrying out the renovation himself, "watching videos on YouTube." This has gained him significant popularity on Instagram, to the point that he will soon appear on one of the UK's main television channels for a property-themed series.
Cheap houses for sale in Italy by the sea
Waking up each morning to breathtaking views of the Italian coastline feels like a dream come true. Italy is home to some of the world's most stunning coastal landscapes, stretching from Liguria to Puglia and encompassing the spectacular islands of Sicily and Sardinia. Despite the current economic climate with rising house prices in 2025, now is still an excellent time to explore cheap seaside properties in Italy, with many hidden gems available. Given Italy’s vast coastline, it’s no surpris
The best mountain towns to live in Sicily
Sicily is not just about the sea and beaches: there are many mountain areas full of charm and tradition that offer a peaceful and authentic lifestyle. Living in the mountains in Sicily means enjoying breathtaking landscapes, fresh air, and a slower pace of life, far from the chaos of the cities. Today we're taking a look at 5 of the villages to consider when looking for a home, along with their unique features. These are the best mountain towns to live in Sicily.
