Real Estate Glossary: Property Types in Italy
Italy’s real estate market is diverse, offering a wide range of property types to suit different needs, lifestyles, and investment goals. Below is a glossary of common property types in Italy, providing a guide for potential buyers and investors.
1. Appartamento (Apartment)
Apartments are the most common type of residential property in Italy. They can range from small studios (monolocale) to large multi-room flats (quadrilocale and beyond). Apartments are typically found in urban areas, historic centers, and modern developments.
2. Attico (Penthouse)
An attico is a top-floor apartment, often featuring a large terrace with panoramic views. These properties are highly sought after due to their exclusivity and outdoor space.
3. Villa
A villa is a detached house, usually located in suburban or countryside areas. Villas often come with private gardens, pools, and spacious interiors, making them ideal for families and luxury buyers.
4. Casale (Farmhouse)
Traditional farmhouses, or casali, are rural properties typically found in Tuscany, Umbria, and other countryside regions. Many casali have been restored and converted into luxurious residences while retaining their rustic charm.
5. Rustico
A rustico is a countryside dwelling, often in a dilapidated state, requiring renovation. These properties attract buyers looking for restoration projects in picturesque locations.
6. Palazzo
A palazzo is a historic building, often of noble origin, found in cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. These properties can be converted into luxury residences, boutique hotels, or cultural spaces.
7. Trullo
Trulli are distinctive, conical-roofed houses native to the Puglia region. These traditional stone structures have become popular as vacation homes and rental investments.
8. Masseria
A masseria is a large, fortified farmhouse common in southern Italy, particularly in Puglia. Many have been transformed into high-end accommodations or agritourism properties.
9. Borgo
A borgo refers to a small historic village or hamlet, sometimes restored and developed into exclusive residential communities or resorts.
10. Loft
Lofts are open-plan, industrial-style apartments, often converted from old warehouses or commercial spaces. They are especially popular in metropolitan areas like Milan.
11. Baita o Chalet
These are mountain properties found in the Alps and Apennines, ideal for ski and nature lovers. They are typically built from wood and stone, offering a cozy alpine aesthetic.
12. Monolocale & Bilocale
A monolocale is a studio apartment with a single open living space, while a bilocale consists of a bedroom and a living area. These are common in cities and are popular for short-term rentals.
13. Terra-tetto
A terra-tetto is a multi-level house, often with independent access, commonly found in historic town centers. Terra tetto literally means earth-roof but in reality it is a construction between a rawhouse ( see Baltimore rawhouses) and a townhouse.
14. Dimora Storica
A dimora storica is a historical residence, often featuring architectural significance and period details. These properties are usually protected under cultural heritage laws.
15. Multiproprietà (Timeshare Property)
Multiproprietà refers to shared ownership of vacation properties, allowing buyers to use the property for a specific period each year.
16. Residence
A residence in Italy refers to a managed complex offering serviced apartments, often found in tourist areas and suitable for investment purposes.
