Atto

This is the formal signing over document. This has to be drawn up by a Notaio and signed with yourself and the seller present.
If the Notaio believes you cannot fully understand what he is saying (are not fluent in Italian) then you have to have a translator present; we cannot do this as we are considered to be interested parties. We can however arrange a translator for you.
The Atto itself can be an anti-climax with lots of people waiting and listening to the information being repeated to make sure everything is settled.
The previously famous tales of property values being wildly under-declared and then brown envelopes being exchanged whilst the Notaio went to ‘fetch’ something are now history, as a law passed in January 2006 means the taxes paid are on the low castadal (land registry) value of the property not the market value, thus removing the ‘need’ to under declare the value.
All monies due are expected at the Atto, so notice must have been given to local banks in good time to ensure the large sums involved can be withdrawn without any problems. Sellers might expect a bankers draft; we will confirm this beforehand.
The Notaio should immediately notify the Catasto (Land registry) of the sale and they will then send you the deeds.
The Notaio and we would then receive monies owed.
We would then contact utility companies to change/setup services.
You can enjoy your property in Sicily!