Ease of Buying Real Estate - Italy is well-known for its red tape, and property transactions certainly are included in this. It is a definite seller's market, and price's are less reflective of actual value than they are of how much the seller thinks the buyer is willing or able to pay. If you find the house of your dreams, be prepared to fork over some cash immediately. It is common practice, especially in the areas popular with overseas buyers, to pay an immediate holding fee, despite not having time to make all the checks...