Over the last few months, both estate agents and property intelligence companies have published a raft of market reports on Central Italy—particularly Tuscany and Umbria. The message that emerges from all of them is that, while demand is undoubtedly lower, with an ensuing reduction in sales volumes, prices are generally holding up and there are no signs of a future collapse. Although low-quality homes in peripheral areas have lost some value, sought after ones remains steady. That said, buyers are much pickier than in the past and seek good value for money. To meet this need, we have selected three quality homes currently on the market in Tuscany, Umbria and le Marche that have a reasonable asking price. None costs more than €170,000.
Semi-detached stone house, Coreglia Antelminelli, Tuscany
This semi-detached stone house in classic Tuscan style stands just outside the pretty village of Coreglia Antelminelli, close to Lucca. Recently restored, it has three bedrooms, a living room (with fireplace) and kitchen and dining room, plus two storage rooms, laid across three levels. The interiors blend modern comforts with a rustic feel. Outside a garden borders the house. “The property is in a great position, only 25kms from Lucca and easy to fly to (Pisa airport is close),” says selling agent Linda Travella of Casa Travella. “It offers spacious, restored accommodation at a great price and with garden to back and front—excellent value for money!” Sold furnished, it is on the market for €170,000 (+44 (0)1322 660988, www.casatravella.com).
Appartamento Domus, Paciano, Umbria
Italian Property sales & restorations are selling a perfect, “must see” home in the historic village of Paciano, close to Lake Trasimeno. Behind a beautiful Umbrian stone façade embroidered with brown shutters lie country interiors with exposed beams, fireplace and original terracotta floors and floor tiles. There is a good sized bedroom, two bathrooms, a large living area and a beautiful rustic kitchen. The property could be slightly rearranged to create a second bedroom. Fully furnished, it is on the market for €165,000 (www.italianproperty.eu.com, +39 0575 605191, +44 (0)845 603 6651).
Farmhouse to restore, near Monterubbiano, Le Marche
The English owner of this panoramic but rundown farmhouse has been posted abroad and needs to sell quickly. He has priced his property competitively, making it very good value, according to selling agent Jane Smith of Magic Marche. Even better, Smith adds, “plans for a restoration project already exist and planning permission has been granted— this represents a terrific time and money saver.” Once the renovation work is completed, the house will have two to three bedrooms, and will make the most of the sinuous views over the rolling Marche hills. It comes with 0.75 hectares of land with some 20 olive trees, and a natural flat area that would be ideal for a pool. “Building contractors are already identified to quote on the project,” says Smith, who adds that the renovation costs would be in the region of €100,000 (www.magicmarche.co.uk, +44 (0)20 8941 8300).
