Why “Dream Locations” Don’t Always Match Real Life
Many foreign buyers start with a region recommended by friends or seen in stunning photos. But a holiday stay and year-round use are two very different scenarios. Our role as a buyer’s agent is to match the dream to reality — considering terrain, accessibility, infrastructure, and daily comfort.
Initial Brief: A Holiday Apartment in Liguria
In June, a client came to us with a clear request: a holiday apartment in Liguria. The region is undeniably attractive — sea, hills, historic town centers, gastronomy, postcard-worthy streets. At this stage, many agents would already be booking viewings. We don’t — we first ask the right questions, then build a strategy.
The Turning Point: Health and Terrain
During the consultation, we learned the client had difficulty walking uphill and needed a flat seafront for daily walks. This was crucial: Liguria is one of Italy’s most mountainous coastal regions. Beyond the first line, steep climbs and stairs are common; even on the seafront, essential services like hospitals or supermarkets are often located higher up. Scenic — yes. Convenient for her needs — not always.
Why Rimini Became the Better Fit
We reframed the search around her real needs — sea access, flat promenade, accessible infrastructure. Rimini emerged as the stronger option:
- Long, flat seafront for easy daily walks,
- Longer tourist season compared to Liguria,
- Flat terrain in key areas with easy access to shops and healthcare,
- Wide choice of holiday and rental-friendly properties.
By focusing on Rimini, we reduced the risk of “beautiful but impractical” and increased the chances of a successful purchase on the first trip.
Lessons for Foreign Buyers in Italy
- Location = lifestyle. A sea view is important, but so is the everyday route from home to the promenade and services.
- Terrain and accessibility matter. Especially if mobility is limited or you want to walk more without physical strain.
- Test assumptions early. Friends may recommend sincerely, but their lifestyle may not match yours.
- Buyer’s agent role. We don’t just “sell pretty facades” — we design a place to live by matching budget, terrain, transport, seasonality, rental, and resale prospects.
Next Steps in the Search
We’re now conducting a targeted search in Rimini under these criteria and preparing a shortlist for an efficient on-site visit — without unnecessary region-hopping. At the same time, we calculate maintenance costs and rental scenarios so the decision works for today and remains sustainable in 3-5 years.
Planning to buy by the sea but unsure about the best location? Contact us — we’ll create a strategy tailored to your lifestyle and find a place in Italy that is both beautiful and practical.
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