The steps to sell a flat in Bolzano
- Establish the value. Start from prices in your area (prices by district) and the estimate by address, then compare them with an on-site valuation.
- Check restrictions and documents. Land register extract, cadastral plan, energy certificate (APE), building compliance, condominium documents. The full list is in documents to sell a home in South Tyrol.
- Check whether the home is resident-only. If there is a "convenzionamento" restriction, only buyers who meet certain requirements can purchase: it changes the market and sometimes the price. See selling a resident-only home.
- Decide how to sell. With an agent (how to choose one) or privately (what it involves).
- Prepare the listing and viewings. Bright photos, a floor plan, an honest description, clear condominium fees. The first two weeks online bring the most enquiries.
- Offer and preliminary contract. When you receive and accept a written offer, a preliminary contract (compromesso) with a deposit is usually signed and registered with the Revenue Agency.
- Deed at the notary. The notary checks the documents, draws up the deed and registers the transfer of ownership in the land register.
What is different when selling in South Tyrol
- Land register (Libro fondiario / Grundbuch). In the province of Bolzano ownership is proven through the land register system: the extract shows owners, mortgages, easements and notes such as the resident-only restriction.
- Provincial cadastre. The building cadastre is managed by the Province. The cadastral plan and data must match the actual state of the home.
- Resident-only homes. Many homes built from the 1970s onwards are "convenzionate": buyers must meet residence or work requirements in the province.
- Bilingualism. A large share of buyers in Bolzano speak German: a listing in Italian and German reaches more people.
Selling costs for the seller
| Item | When | How much |
|---|---|---|
| Agent's commission | If you sell through an agent | A percentage of the price, agreed in the listing agreement |
| Energy performance certificate (APE) | Always, already for the listing | Varies: ask a certifier for a quote |
| Cadastral or building regularisation | If the home is not compliant | Depends on the case: ask a surveyor before listing |
| Capital gains tax | If you sell within 5 years of buying, with exceptions (e.g. main home) | Flat-rate or ordinary taxation: work it out with the notary |
| Mortgage cancellation | If there is a loan to pay off | For bank mortgages usually no notary costs (simplified procedure) |
The notary is usually chosen and paid by the buyer.
How long it takes to sell a home in Bolzano
Almost everything depends on the asking price. A home priced in line with its local market sells much sooner than an overpriced one, and often at a better final price.
Between accepting the offer and the deed there are usually a few weeks, the time needed for the buyer's mortgage and the notary's checks. If you are in a hurry, read how to sell a house fast.
Inherited homes, separation, moving house
Each situation has its own steps. If the home is inherited, the succession and the heirs' entry in the land register are needed before selling: see selling an inherited home. If you need to buy another home, it pays to know straight away what yours is worth to work out your budget.
Selling commercial property
Shops, offices, storage units and warehouses are valued by their own rules: location and footfall, rent if they are let, planning use. Read the guides to commercial units, offices and warehouses in Bolzano.