What It Really Costs to Maintain a Second Home in Italy

Buying a second home in Italy might be a dream — but owning one is a long-term commitment. And like any home, it comes with running costs. Whether it’s a countryside farmhouse, a coastal villa, or a charming apartment in a medieval town, maintenance is part of the package.

So before you picture yourself sipping Chianti under the Tuscan sun, let’s look at what it really costs to maintain a second home in Italy, year after year.

🏡 1. Property Taxes (IMU + TARI)

If the home is not your primary residence (which applies to most foreigners), you’ll pay two key property taxes:

✅ IMU (Imposta Municipale Unica)

• Annual property tax based on cadastral value
• Varies by municipality, location, and luxury level
• Average cost: €600 to €3,000 per year

✅ TARI (Tassa Rifiuti)

• Waste collection tax
• Based on square meters + number of residents (even if it’s empty!)
• Average cost: €150 to €400 per year

⚙️ 2. Utilities (Even if You’re Not There)

Your second home still “lives” while you’re away.

• Electricity: €50–€150/month (depending on use, provider, and appliances)
• Gas/Heating: €500–€1,200/year (higher if you have a large rural home)
• Water: €100–€400/year
• Wi-Fi/Internet: €20–€35/month (optional, but useful for security cameras or remote access)

👉 Total annual utilities (estimate): €1,000 to €2,500

🔧 3. Maintenance & Repairs

Even if no one’s living there, homes need upkeep:

• Annual inspections: €250–€500 (recommended)
• Routine maintenance (boiler service, chimney, AC): €200–€600
• Garden upkeep: €500–€2,000 (depending on size and frequency)
• Pool maintenance (if applicable): €800–€2,500/year
• Unexpected repairs: always budget a cushion — Italy’s older homes can surprise you

👉 Typical annual upkeep range: €1,500 to €5,000+
(Yes, a neglected olive tree can crack a water pipe.)

📜 4. Administrative & Bureaucratic Costs

Especially if you live abroad, you’ll likely need:

• Property caretaker or manager: €1,000–€3,000/year
  (Monthly check-ins, key holding, supplier coordination)
• Accountant (commercialista): €250–€700/year for tax filings
• Insurance: €150–€500/year (home, fire, liability)

🚪 5. Opening & Closing the House

If you use the house only part of the year, you may pay for:

• Opening services (airing out, turning on systems): €100–€250
• Closing services (draining pipes, shutters, security): €100–€250
• Cleaning services: €15–€25/hour (pre/post stay or monthly)

💰 So What’s the Total Annual Cost?

These figures include taxes, utilities, essential maintenance, and basic support — but not renovations or major upgrades.

🧠 How to Reduce Costs (Without Sacrificing Comfort)

• ✅ Work with a local property caretaker to avoid emergencies and catch small issues early
• ✅ Use smart home tech (cameras, thermostats, remote alarms)
• ✅ Turn off gas/water systems during long absences
• ✅ Bundle services — some companies manage everything from inspections to utilities for a fixed fee
• ✅ Consider renting the home short-term to offset costs (if local laws allow it)

🏁 Final Thoughts

A second home in Italy is a joy — but like a vintage car, it needs love and care to stay beautiful.

By understanding the real costs and planning ahead, you can enjoy your Italian home with peace of mind, knowing it’s safe, clean, and cared for — even while you’re miles away.

Need help maintaining your Italian home while you’re abroad?

We specialize in property caretaking for foreign homeowners in Italy — from regular inspections and bills to full-service management.

👉 Contact us to schedule a free consultation.