In Italian real estate, negotiations are almost part of the cultural code. Regardless of how fair the asking price is, many people believe you should “always try to get a discount.” Sometimes this is based on genuine market reasoning — but often, it’s simply a ritual.
Two Types of Negotiations We See in Italy
From our experience as real estate professionals in Italy, there are two very different situations:
- Value-based negotiation — when a buyer or tenant sees the value of the property but wants to have a reasoned discussion about terms,
- Ritual negotiation — when someone starts with the assumption:
“Well, there should be a discount — that’s just how it’s done.”
…without analysing why the property is priced as it is, what has been invested in it, and how it stands out in the market.
The first approach respects the owner’s work and acknowledges the property’s unique features. The second often wastes time and can close the door to productive dialogue.
A Real Example from Udine
In 2025, we listed a fully renovated apartment in Udine:
- Fully furnished with new appliances,
- Private terrace with mountain and sunset views,
- Unlimited internet,
- Rare energy efficiency class “C”.
The asking rent reflected fair market value, considering all included features.
A potential tenant wrote to us:“A quanto puoi arrivare? Mi piace molto, ma non ho quel budget…”
(“How low can you go? I really like it, but I don’t have that budget…”)While they appreciated the property, a personal budget limit is not a valid reason to lower the price of a quality product. It’s like walking into a boutique and saying:
“I love this coat. Give me a discount so I can afford it.”
Our Approach to Property Negotiation in Italy
One of our principles is simple:
We negotiate not for the sake of negotiating, but to reach a fair deal for both sides.
If a property is already objectively priced, we will not apply meaningless pressure “just to knock the price down.” A professional buyer’s agent in Italy should:
- Protect the client’s interests — whether buyer, seller, or landlord,
- Explain the basis for the price,
- Find a balance where both sides feel heard.
When Negotiation Truly Makes Sense
Negotiation in Italy is worth pursuing when:
- There are market-based arguments,
- There’s a clear alternative for comparison,
- There’s a genuine interest in understanding the property’s pricing,
- That’s when negotiations stop being a battle — and become a tool for fairness.
© ITALTY — Your Italian Realty
We write about buying real estate in Italy with maximum benefit for you, without risks and stress.