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Rising demand from international investors and relocating families is driving record growth in Italy’s high-end real estate market
Italy’s luxury real estate sector is experiencing a remarkable surge in international demand, with foreign buyers increasingly viewing the country not only as a destination for holiday homes, but also as a long-term place to live, invest, and preserve wealth.
According to data released by Luxforsale Finance, the mortgage division of Luxforsale developed in partnership with Quantum Creditech and specialized in financing solutions for foreign buyers, requests for property financing from international clients increased by 63% during the first five months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. The figures highlight a broader trend that is reshaping the Italian real estate market and strengthening the country’s appeal among affluent international investors.
The growth is evident not only in the number of applications but also in the value of the transactions involved. Between January and May 2026, the total value of properties linked to mortgage requests reached €21.4 million, up significantly from €14.59 million during the same period a year earlier. Meanwhile, the total amount of financing requested rose from €8.4 million to €12.27 million.
The strongest demand is coming from buyers based in the United States, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Germany, and the Scandinavian countries. Among these markets, the United States has emerged as one of the most dynamic sources of demand, particularly within the upper-middle and luxury property segments.
Industry observers believe this reflects a broader shift in how Italy is perceived internationally. While the country has traditionally attracted foreign buyers seeking second homes in picturesque locations, it is increasingly being viewed as a strategic destination for relocation and long-term wealth planning.
“Today Italy is no longer chosen only as a location for a holiday property or a real estate investment,” said Claudio Citzia, Chief Executive Officer of Luxforsale. “More and more international buyers see the country as a place where they can live, transfer part of their assets, and plan their family’s future.”
Several factors appear to be supporting this trend. Italy continues to offer a combination of lifestyle advantages that remain highly attractive to wealthy individuals and families, including a high quality of life, cultural heritage, personal safety, and a relatively stable property market. In addition, the country’s fiscal framework and residency incentives have become increasingly appealing to international investors looking for diversification opportunities within Europe.
The majority of transactions involve properties in the medium-high and luxury categories, with an average value exceeding €1.65 million. Demand is concentrated in some of Italy’s most sought-after regions, including Lombardy, Tuscany, Liguria, Puglia, and Sicily.
These destinations offer a wide variety of investment opportunities, from prestigious city residences in Milan to historic villas in Tuscany, coastal properties along the Ligurian Riviera, and increasingly popular luxury developments in southern regions such as Puglia and Sicily. The growing popularity of these areas reflects a desire among buyers to combine investment potential with lifestyle benefits.
Entrepreneurs and senior executives represent the largest share of purchasers. Most transactions are still linked to investment strategies or second-home acquisitions. However, a significant portion of demand is now coming from families planning a permanent move to Italy. According to the data, approximately 25% of financing requests originate from households intending to establish long-term residency in the country.
This evolution marks an important development for the Italian property market. Rather than attracting only seasonal buyers, Italy is increasingly drawing individuals and families who intend to integrate their personal and financial lives into the country over the long term.
Flavio Miglioli, President of Quantum Creditech, believes the financing market has evolved rapidly to support this new wave of international demand.
“Only a few years ago, mortgage products designed for non-resident clients were still relatively underdeveloped,” he said. “Today we are seeing a more structured and informed demand, supported by international investors who view Italy as a unique combination of lifestyle quality, asset protection, and real estate opportunity.”
Looking ahead, market participants remain optimistic about the outlook for the remainder of 2026. One factor that could further stimulate foreign demand is the difference between borrowing costs in Italy and those available in some overseas markets.
Luxforsale Finance points in particular to the United States, where mortgage rates can remain significantly higher than those currently available in Italy. According to the company, the gap can reach up to three percentage points in favor of Italian financing conditions. Combined with the enduring appeal of Italian real estate and growing interest in premium destinations, this advantage may continue to encourage international buyers throughout the year.
As global investors seek stability, lifestyle quality, and long-term value, Italy appears increasingly well positioned to benefit from a sustained influx of foreign capital into its luxury property market.
Alessandro Fiorentino