FAQs
Is Sicily in the European Union?
Yes, Sicily is a region of Italy and has all the same legal and structural framework as the rest of Italy. If you are a resident of the EU or of a country with reciprocal links, then you will be able to receive pensions and enjoy all the free facilities such as healthcare and education, etc.
Is buying a house in Sicily different to Italy?
No, Sicily is part of Italy and shares the same laws and procedures, etc. As one of five semi-politically autonomous regions in Italy, it has the power only to change local laws which are unlikely to affect house buyers here.
What languages do people speak in Sicily?
The ‘first’ language is Italian. As in every region of Italy there are local dialects which even vary between neighbouring towns. It is common for people to speak Sicilian at home and to their friends, but use Italian for business and everyday activities. English is increasingly spoken by more people, particularly in the major tourist areas and by young people.
How long does it take to buy a house in Sicily?
If there are no problems completion can be a matter of a couple of weeks. However, the emphasis here is not on speed but thoroughness; the legal process in Italy ensures due diligence is carried out meticulously on all relevant matters. This can take time and if there are any queries that need to be resolved this will obviously add to the timescale.
Can I be “gazumped”?
This is very unlikely. After signing a compromesso (preliminary sales contract), a seller backing down from the sale has to pay double the deposit back, which needless to say makes this a very rare occurrence!
What types of properties are available in Sicily?
Sicily is an incredibly diverse country and people who have not been here may not be able to comprehend this. There are all types of property, from city apartments in baroque palaces, to country farmhouses, seaside flats, mountain top retreats, castles, island villas…endless choices.
How do I buy a property in Sicily?
See our guide on buying property in Sicily.
How much does property cost in Sicily?
Generally prices here are less than for the equivalent properties in the popular areas in the rest of Italy, but there are exceptions. Northern Italians know what an excellent destination Sicily is and demand for property near the coast is high, consequently pushing prices there upwards; this however will be balanced out by the rental potential of these areas. Areas near major tourist destinations and those popular with Sicilians themselves nearby work are also under price pressure. Beyond this, there are many areas offering excellent value and a lot of areas are still relatively undiscovered.
Are the prices negotiable?
Just as anywhere, yes and no: it depends on the seller’s need to sell, market conditions, season and the length of time the property has been on the market etc. This is where our local knowledge and experience works for you, to try to obtain the best price.
How much does it cost to renovate a property in Sicily?
This is very hard to generalise. Factors include the type of construction, location, whether to use ‘traditional’ materials and artisan techniques, inclusion of special features, partial (al Grezzo) or complete finish etc. All our projects are unique and we work with you to establish what exactly you want to do yourself, or to leave to us to project manage.
Can I get a mortgage, insurance, bank account, etc in Sicily?
Yes, we can advise you of our contacts with either Italian or foreign companies and explain some of the broad principles.
Can you help me if I have bought a property through someone else and have a problem?
Yes, we can help with anything related to property in Sicily, if we directly cannot assist you; through our extensive network of contacts we are sure to be able to help you.
What about bureaucratic restrictions?
Italians have a love/hate relationship with bureaucracy: they say they hate it, but then they seem to revel in ‘working the system’ and of course, it creates employment!
If you are an EU citizen most necessary permissions will be almost automatic, but some time will be spent waiting in queues (time for practising your Italian perhaps).
For stays of over 90 days, you will need a permesso di soggiorno (permit to stay), from the Questura (police station), in the nearest provincial capital.
If you are intending to relocate permanently you should consider applying for certificato di residenza (residency), this can save you time and money.
If you not an EU citizen it is not impossible, you just have to prove your intentions and that you are financially solvent.
What is healthcare like in Sicily?
The Italians take their health very seriously and constantly worry about possible symptoms; consequently the health service is comfortingly generous. It is relatively common for people suffering from being run down or stressed to be prescribed ‘treatment’ at health spas (free of charge, of course). Most hospitals are modern and clinical care very good. Some quirks exist: due to the family almost always bringing food, normal hospital food can be basic and aesthetics are not considered to be relevant to patient care.
For minor aches and pains head for the local farmacia, or dispensing chemist. They keep normal shop hours and can be spotted by a green cross outside; they also operate an emergency 24-hour service on a rotating shift basis, details of which are displayed in the window. Unless you are elderly or chronically ill, you'll normally have to pay a relatively small contribution for prescriptions, laboratory analyses and hospital out-patient treatment.
Will I have problems with the mafia?
The mafia (organised crime) does exist in Sicily, as it does in most countries of the world. They are a multi-billion dollar a year ‘industry’ and have no interest in tourists and foreign home buyers. Violence is restricted to in-house affairs; generally violent crime is very rare in Sicily. Especially on the east coast of Sicily, their presence is minimal.
Is the food as good as I hear in Sicily?
No, it is better!