Investment in real estate in Italy is one of the main features of financial activity. Investors in Italy have traditionally operated in the real estate market. An surprisingly large share of the people owns their own homes, and many purchase second homes for holidays. In addition, many foreigners purchase real estate in Italy because of the attractive living conditions and because Italy is an icon of quality lifestyle in the world. In fact there are large number of foreigners living in Forte dei Marmi, Pietrasanta (Tuscany), Umbria, the lake areas of northern Italy like Como, etc. The value of real estate in Italy has given great satisfaction to investors as a result of the steady and often rapid increase in values. In recent years, the increases in values have been well ahead of rises in the cost of living. It may be expected that real estate values will continue to rise because of the strong underlying demand, both from domestic as well as external sources. Obviously, for the purpose of investing in real estate there are various factors to be considered: in particular, location is important. Some locations as Rome, Florence, Milan, Forte dei Marmi, Como are the most profitable for investment purposes. In fact it is more advisable to purchase a relatively expensive property in a good location, rather than a cheaper

property in a less attractive area. There will always be a market for showpiece properties and because of the dwindling availability of such properties, their prices will continue to advance sharply. Another factor to be taken into account for the purpose of investing in real estate is the potential that the property might have for resale. www.fdmre.com