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Living in Le Marche: Town Houses

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Advantages of buying a property in the historic town centres in Le Marche countryside

Buying a property in or within walking distance of the historic town centres of Le Marche can offer several advantages, making it an attractive option for those seeking a unique and culturally rich lifestyle. These benefits collectively offer a balanced lifestyle with the convenience of town facilities while enjoying the tranquillity and beauty of the Le Marche countryside. Here are some of the advantages of investing in properties in historic town centres in Le Marche:

1. Cultural and Historical Charm

Le Marche is rich in history and culture, and historic town centres offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in this heritage. Living amidst or near historical architecture, museums cobblestone streets, ancient landmarks and local events can provide a deep sense of cultural enrichment and foster cultural immersion.

2. Authentic Italian Lifestyle

Historic town centres often retain a strong sense of community and an authentic Italian way of life. You can enjoy local traditions, festivals, and a slower pace of living.

3. Property Value and Appreciation

Historic properties in well-preserved town centres tend to hold their value and appreciate over time. The demand for such properties remains consistent, making them a potentially sound investment.

4. Stunning Architecture

Many historic town centre properties feature stunning architectural details, such as frescoed ceilings, original stonework, and beautiful courtyards. Living in such a property can be a unique and visually pleasing experience.

5. Proximity to Amenities

Historic town centres typically offer a range of amenities, including local markets, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. You can access to town facilities without the noise and congestion often associated with urban living and enjoy a convenient and walkable lifestyle.

6. Preservation of Culture

By investing in these properties, you contribute to the preservation and restoration of Italy's cultural heritage. Many properties are protected under heritage laws, ensuring their long-term survival.

7. Rental Income Potential

If you're not planning to live in your property full-time, historic town centres are often popular choices for vacation rentals, providing an opportunity for rental income.

8. Residency and Citizenship Benefits

Buying a property in Italy may provide opportunities for residency or citizenship, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of Italian and EU citizenship.

9. Connection to Local Cuisine

Many historic town centres are known for their local culinary specialties. Living in the heart of such areas allows you to experience and savour authentic Italian cuisine.

10. Scenic Beauty

Historic town centres often offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, whether it's the sea, rolling hills, or picturesque countryside.

11. Community and Social Life

These town centres tend to have a close-knit community, providing opportunities for social interactions and a strong sense of belonging.

12. Investment in Lifestyle

Purchasing a property in a historic town centre in Le Marche is an investment in a unique and enriching lifestyle, where you can enjoy the beauty of the region, its culture, and its history.

13. Health & Wellbeing

Encourages physical activity through walking, contributing to a healthier lifestyle. The recommended daily walking time for adults is generally around 30 minutes to one hour, totalling about 150 to 300 minutes per week. This guideline aligns with health recommendations like the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other health authorities.

14. Reduced dependency on vehicles

Reducing dependency on vehicles offers a multitude of health advantages. Embracing alternative modes of transportation such as walking or cycling significantly boosts daily physical activity levels, fostering better cardiovascular health, weight management, and overall fitness. Moreover, diminished vehicular reliance translates to improved air quality, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases and enhancing respiratory health. By opting for alternative transportation methods, individuals often experience lower stress levels, fewer accidents, and financial savings, while also contributing positively to environmental health. This shift promotes a healthier lifestyle and environment overall.

It's important to work with local real estate professionals, such as agents and lawyers, who have experience with historic properties and can guide you through the process, including any preservation or restoration requirements. Buying a property in the historic town centres of Le Marche is not only a financial investment but also an investment in an exceptional way of life.

Good News! 7% Flat Tax for Foreign Pensioners

The 7% Flat Tax for foreign pensioners is an Italian initiative designed to attract retirees receiving pensions from abroad. It allows eligible individuals to pay a flat 7% tax on all foreign income for 10 years, provided they establish their tax residency in small towns or rural areas, including parts of Le Marche. To qualify, these retirees must not have been tax residents in Italy for the previous five years and must move to municipalities with populations under 20,000 or those facing economic decline.

This incentive is boosting the real estate market in regions like Le Marche, known for its picturesque landscapes and affordable properties. Foreign retirees are drawn to the area, purchasing homes in smaller towns such as Montefiore dell’Aso or Fermo, often opting for renovations or holiday homes. This influx revitalizes depopulated areas, enhances local economies, and supports property values. The presence of retirees also generates demand for local services and infrastructure, while introducing cultural diversity and fostering long-term interest in the region through visiting family and friends. Overall, the program positions Le Marche as an attractive destination for retirees and property investors alike. Read more here!

Guideline for buying a property in the historic town centres of Le Marche

Buying a property in the historic town centres of Le Marche, Italy, involves several considerations:

1. Research and Understanding

Learn about the specific town, its history, property market, local regulations, and cultural significance. Understanding the market trends and property values is crucial.

2. Legal and Financial Aspects

Seek legal advice from a local lawyer who specializes in real estate to understand property laws, taxes, and regulations. Ensure you have a clear understanding of all the costs involved, including property taxes and any renovations or upkeep.

3. Property Inspection and Documentation

Inspect the property thoroughly and review all documentation, including ownership history, permits, and any restrictions related to historical buildings.

4. Cultural and Architectural Preservation

Properties in historic areas often have restrictions on renovations to maintain the historical integrity. Make sure you understand these limitations and assess if they align with your plans.

5. Local Community and Lifestyle

Get to know the local community and lifestyle. It's important to see if it aligns with what you're looking for in terms of amenities, accessibility, and overall atmosphere.

6. Real Estate Agent

Consider hiring a reputable local real estate agent who understands the area well. They can guide you through the process and provide insights into available properties.

7. Patience and Due Diligence

The process of buying in historic town centres can be complex and time-consuming. Be patient and conduct thorough due diligence before making any commitments.

Remember, each property purchase is unique, especially in historical areas. Ensuring a thorough understanding of the property, the area, and the legal implications is key to a successful investment.

I Borghi più belli d'Italia (The most beautiful towns in Italy)

For anyone dreaming of buying a home in Italy and more specially in Le Marche region , these recognized towns offer not only breathtaking beauty but also a promise of sustainable living and cultural richness. Additionally, the "Borghi più belli d’Italia" website highlights 32 of these picturesque locations in Le Marche, making it an excellent resource for narrowing down your search and finding your perfect match.

I Borghi più belli d'Italia ("The Most Beautiful Villages of Italy") is a non-profit association founded in 2001 under the patronage of the National Association of Italian Municipalities (ANCI). Its mission is to preserve, promote, and enhance the cultural, historical, artistic, and natural heritage of Italy's small villages, often overlooked in favor of larger cities. By focusing on these picturesque towns, the association aims to foster sustainable tourism, protect local traditions, and ensure the economic viability of rural areas.

The association works through a variety of initiatives, including:

Organizing cultural events and festivals to showcase local traditions.
Promoting villages through publications, exhibitions, and media campaigns.
Collaborating with local governments to ensure preservation and revitalization.
Encouraging responsible tourism to protect the environment and heritage.

Eligibility Conditions

To be eligible for inclusion in the “I Borghi più belli d'Italia” list, villages must meet strict criteria:

Population Limit: The village must typically have a small population, ensuring its intimate and historic character.
Historical and Artistic Value: The village must possess notable historical, architectural, or cultural assets, such as medieval or Renaissance buildings, churches, or castles.
Preservation of Heritage: The town must maintain its historical identity, with well-preserved structures, streets, and overall ambiance.
Environmental Quality: The surrounding environment must be clean, well-maintained, and free of intrusive modern developments.
Community Engagement: The local community must demonstrate an active effort in preserving traditions and promoting the village's heritage.
Tourism Infrastructure: The village should offer adequate facilities for visitors, including accommodations, dining, and cultural activities, without compromising its charm.

Each candidate village undergoes a rigorous evaluation process by the association to ensure it meets these standards. Those that succeed gain access to national and international promotional efforts, further enhancing their visibility and appeal.

Check out Beautiful Towns of Le Marche, Italy on our Pinterest!

Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag) – Le Marche’s Excellence in Sustainable Tourism

For those seeking a truly authentic and sustainable experience in Italy, the Bandiera Arancione certification highlights towns in Le Marche that offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and responsible tourism. The Bandiera Arancione is an important recognition awarded by the Italian Touring Club to small towns in Italy that stand out for their commitment to environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and high-quality tourism services. In Le Marche, this prestigious mark identifies locations that not only captivate visitors with their charm but also promote eco-friendly practices and preserve local traditions.

In Le Marche, the Bandiera Arancione is more than just a symbol – it’s a commitment to responsible tourism that benefits both the visitors and the local community. From the rolling hills of the inland countryside to the picturesque coastlines, towns awarded the Bandiera Arancione offer a perfect combination of historical landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. These towns, nestled within the region’s picturesque settings, invite visitors to experience authentic local life, without compromising the sustainability of their environment.

The Bandiera Arancione label is not only a mark of beauty but also a recognition of a town’s dedication to promoting responsible tourism. This includes attention to environmental protection, local traditions, and high standards of quality in tourism services. The Touring Club Italiano evaluates each town through a rigorous selection process, considering various criteria related to the sustainable development of small communities.

Eligibility Conditions

To be eligible for the Bandiera Arancione certification, towns must meet specific criteria designed to ensure their commitment to sustainable tourism, local development, and cultural heritage preservation. The following are the core conditions:

Population Limit: The town must typically have a small population (usually under 15,000 residents) in order to maintain its authentic character and ensure that tourism development does not overwhelm local life.
Historical and Cultural Value: Towns must possess a wealth of historical and cultural assets, such as medieval buildings, Renaissance structures, castles, or ancient churches. They should be places where local traditions and historical heritage are celebrated and protected.
Environmental Sustainability: The surrounding environment must be protected and well-maintained. Towns with Bandiera Arancione status are committed to minimizing environmental impact, offering clean, well-preserved surroundings that allow visitors to connect with nature while minimizing harm to it.
Tourism Infrastructure: Towns must have adequate tourism infrastructure, including accommodations, restaurants, cultural activities, and transportation services. However, these facilities must align with the town’s cultural and environmental ethos, ensuring they do not negatively impact the town’s character.
Preservation of Local Traditions: To retain their Bandiera Arancione status, towns must demonstrate a commitment to preserving local traditions, including local crafts, festivals, and cultural events. This includes efforts to promote the cultural identity of the community, passing down knowledge and practices to future generations.
Community Engagement and Participation: Local residents must actively participate in the preservation and enhancement of their community’s heritage. This involves engaging in initiatives that benefit both the environment and the community, from organizing cultural events to participating in environmental preservation efforts.
Promotion of Responsible Tourism: The town must actively promote responsible tourism, which encourages visitors to respect the environment, support local businesses, and engage with the community in a meaningful and non-intrusive way. This includes the use of sustainable travel options and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Each eligible town is subject to a thorough evaluation process by the Touring Club Italiano, which assesses whether these conditions are met and if the town is genuinely committed to maintaining high standards in terms of tourism and environmental management.

The towns that are awarded the Bandiera Arancione certification benefit from national and international exposure, bringing attention to their sustainable tourism initiatives and inviting visitors to enjoy their unique offerings. Moreover, it helps protect and promote the economic viability of small towns, supporting local businesses and encouraging a sustainable, eco-friendly approach to tourism.

Check out Beautiful Towns of Le Marche, Italy on our Pinterest!