We are hoping to move to Italy in a few

Have a look herehttp://www.casa.it/vendita-residenziale/in-fi%2c+toscana%3b/lista-1 , then pick up the Italian term for the type of rental you want and then you can search for other companies. Good luck.

Hi, I've found this long term rental properties handy when I've been in Tuscany for several months, only half an hour from the city. http://www.ciarpaglini.net/index.html   Best of luck.

We've been renting in Italy for seven years now. We're on our second apartment. The only true way to rent an apartment here is to visit local realtors in the towns/regions you are interested in living. There is no "multiple Listing service" or sharing between realtors. Often the best offerings are never advertised, but kept in the agent's briefcase. We arranged a good deal at a central hotel for a monthly rate while we shopped for an apartment. It only took us four weeks to find the ideal location and sign a lease. The items we shipped from our originating country, we kept in storage at a very nominal fee as part of the moving package. We are "next door" in Umbria and wish you all the best in your efforts. smile emoticon

I agree with the above comment. We had friends who wanted to arrange a 6 month rental in Northern Tuscany and it was not an easy task, even contacting local agents. Short term (about a month or two maximum), or long term (over a year) was not a problem. Finally, another friend managed to contact the owners of an apartment which was empty for practically the whole year and was able to sort the problem out. Perhaps you could do a search in the "owners direct" websites and try to contact them. Good luck!

Yes, the best way to find a property to rent is to be here and seek out local agents. There are many properties that are not listed anywhere, but only known to the agents.  I am extremely familiar with the renting process as we have been renting here for years.  I am not an estate agent but know the system very well here in Tuscany.  There are three ways you can go:1. Find a holiday let on one of the big sites and ask for long term.  (not the best option as this can be pricy and not stable, but may be a good temporary solution)2. Find a long term "tourist" rental.  This is an agreement of up to 18 months.  Rents will be lower and most properties will be fully furnished.  Expect to pay for all utilities, 1-3 months damage deposit and a commission of usually 1 months rent to the agent.3. Find a long term lease.  4 years + 4 year renewal is the new regular term here.  This may seem long, But be advised, in Italy, laws are very tenant friendly so although you can get an 8 year commitment from the owner, you can always break the lease, without penelty, by giving 6 months notice.  This option will be the best price properties, can be furnished or unfurnished, and you will pay all utilities and one months rent commission.  Most owners will also ask a 3 month damage deposit.i hope this helps!