An agency claims that growing numbers of UK investors and buyers are turning to Italy as a place to invest in a dream home, relocate, or establish a holiday retreat. 

Great Estate, a luxury property network, has seen a 28% annual increase in UK buyers looking to purchase property in Tuscany and Umbria, the regions where demand from international buyers has been steadily growing again since 2023. 

The agency says the shift comes as many British buyers feel less welcome in Spain as well as the recent pronouncements of Spanish prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, who announced he might double taxes for, or even ban, non-EU buyers, prompting them to look elsewhere for their dream properties. 

It says the most popular regions include Milan, Rome, Tuscany, Apulia, Liguria, and Sardinia. Large countryside homes range from £425,000 to £850,000, while regular short-haul flights from London, Manchester, and other UK cities head to Florence, Pisa, Rome and Puglia.

The majority of British buyers fall between the ages of 40 and 59 (40.7%), with 18% in the 60 to 75 bracket, many looking for holiday retreats, semi-retirement homes, or relocation opportunities.

They are seeking renovated properties with privacy, gardens, and swimming pools, or properties with the potential to build new pools and customise outdoor spaces, including vineyards or olive groves in production. The most sought-after homes range between 300 to 400 square metres, with a value of £717,000 to £3m. 

Great Estate claims that some of the attractions are lifestyle based too – regions like Tuscany, Umbria, and Puglia are world-famous for their wine and olive oil production, and British buyers are tapping into this tradition. Many expats and property owners take part in the harvest, either as part of a business venture or simply to enjoy the lifestyle.