Buying on Lake Como: the back story

About Buying on Lake Como: the back story

By the ULTIMATE Lake Como Editorial Team

Editor-in-Chief: Jai Michael

Lake Como’s most sought-after homes are villas with their own landing on the water, from Cernobbio and Moltrasio to Tremezzina and Bellagio, and apartments in the walled town of Como. The eastern shore, from Blevio to Nesso, and the Lecco side are quieter, and the upper lake around Gravedona and Domaso is loved for sailing. In Italy the sale is completed by a deed signed before a notaio, a public official.

Where people buy

The western shore from Cernobbio to Tremezzina and Menaggio for villas with lake landings; Bellagio for its village and views; the walled town of Como for apartments; the eastern shore and the Lecco side for quiet; the upper lake for sailing.

How a sale works

A sale usually begins with a purchase proposal and a preliminary contract (compromesso), and is completed by the final deed (rogito) signed before a notaio, who checks the title and registers the sale. A foreign buyer needs an Italian tax code (codice fiscale). The Consiglio Nazionale del Notariato explains each step on notariato.it.

We never publish prices; ask an agent and your notary.

Our advice: on the lake, check access from the road and the water, and the rules for any landing or boathouse, with your notary.

Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Buying on Lake Como: the back story before you go.