April 29, 2025 · Leave a Comment
Thinking about buying a house in Sicily but worried about the language barrier? 
You’re not alone. Many dream of living in Italy, but the idea of handling a major purchase without being fluent can feel overwhelming. Good news: It’s more possible than you might think. In this post, we’re sharing how our friends Jo and Ari successfully bought their dream home in Carini without speaking fluent Italian—and the lessons they learned along the way.
🎥 Watch their story above, then keep reading for extra tips we didn’t have time to include in the video!
Their Journey: Buying a House in Sicily Without Fluent Italian
When Jo and Ari set out to find a home in Sicily, they had plenty of determination but limited Italian language skills. They weren’t bilingual, but they were willing to be flexible, patient, and ask for help. Here’s how they made it happen:
Partnered with a bilingual real estate agent: Having an agent who spoke English was crucial for navigating contracts, negotiations, and paperwork.
Access to a trusted lawyer: They made sure an Italian attorney reviewed all contracts, protecting them from any fine-print surprises.
Used translation tools wisely: Apps like Google Translate helped bridge quick gaps but weren’t a replacement for human help.
Focused on clear communication: They double-checked everything—from terms of sale to utilities—to be sure they understood what they were signing.
The result? Jo and Ari closed on a cozy home in Carini, and now use it as a home base for travels throughout Europe and beyond. See Cost of Living in Sicily.
Tips for Buying a House in Sicily Without Speaking Italian
Buying property abroad isn’t without challenges, but it’s absolutely possible with the right plan. Here are a few quick tips if you’re considering it yourself:
Find a bilingual real estate agent who understands the local market.
Hire a local lawyer (avvocato) to represent your interests.
Learn basic Italian home-buying terms so you recognize key words.
Be prepared for extra paperwork; Italy loves its documents!
Double-check everything: Utilities, taxes, and bank processes can vary from U.S. standards.
Be patient: Things move slower in Sicily than you might expect—and that’s part of the charm.
Final Thoughts
Jo and Ari’s story is proof that you don’t have to be fluent in Italian to make your dream of owning a home in Sicily a reality. With good help, clear communication, and a lot of heart, you can turn a big move into a beautiful new chapter. View Inside Our Sicilian Cottage.
Have questions about buying property in Sicily? Drop them in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
• If this resonated, you might enjoy Croce & Carol’s Sicilian Life Connect membership.
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