HI from a fellow Canuck living in Tuscany.i can't speak for all of Italy, but Tuscany is very safe. I would assume most large cities have the usual share of criminal activity (I was a police officer for many years so am hyper sensitive to security issues) but the smaller towns and cities are very safe.  We don't have violent gun crimes like the US either.There remains a strong sense of community in many parts, where neighbors watch out for each other.  It is easy to buy property here and many foreigners and ½ûÂþÌìÌÃs own property here they use part time and also rent to tourists, which can be a very good income and no worries about security.The government will not take your home and give it to someone else!Italy is a magical place to live.  Yes, it is riddled with burocracy and paperwork and systems, but the flip side is beautiful weather (I come from rainy Vancouver)  amazing food, warm people, spectacular wine...and yes, safety. Cheers!Â
Yes, the best way to find a property to rent is to be here and seek out local agents. There are many properties that are not listed anywhere, but only known to the agents. Â I am extremely familiar with the renting process as we have been renting here for years. Â I am not an estate agent but know the system very well here in Tuscany. Â There are three ways you can go:1. Find a holiday let on one of the big sites and ask for long term. Â (not the best option as this can be pricy and not stable, but may be a good temporary solution)2. Find a long term "tourist" rental. Â This is an agreement of up to 18 months. Â Rents will be lower and most properties will be fully furnished. Â Expect to pay for all utilities, 1-3 months damage deposit and a commission of usually 1 months rent to the agent.3. Find a long term lease. Â 4 years + 4 year renewal is the new regular term here. Â This may seem long, But be advised, in Italy, laws are very tenant friendly so although you can get an 8 year commitment from the owner, you can always break the lease, without penelty, by giving 6 months notice. Â This option will be the best price properties, can be furnished or unfurnished, and you will pay all utilities and one months rent commission. Â Most owners will also ask a 3 month damage deposit.i hope this helps! Â
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HI from a fellow Canuck living in Tuscany.i can't speak for all of Italy, but Tuscany is very safe. I would assume most large cities have the usual share of criminal activity (I was a police officer for many years so am hyper sensitive to security issues) but the smaller towns and cities are very safe.  We don't have violent gun crimes like the US either.There remains a strong sense of community in many parts, where neighbors watch out for each other.  It is easy to buy property here and many foreigners and ½ûÂþÌìÌÃs own property here they use part time and also rent to tourists, which can be a very good income and no worries about security.The government will not take your home and give it to someone else!Italy is a magical place to live.  Yes, it is riddled with burocracy and paperwork and systems, but the flip side is beautiful weather (I come from rainy Vancouver)  amazing food, warm people, spectacular wine...and yes, safety. Cheers!Â
Yes, the best way to find a property to rent is to be here and seek out local agents. There are many properties that are not listed anywhere, but only known to the agents. Â I am extremely familiar with the renting process as we have been renting here for years. Â I am not an estate agent but know the system very well here in Tuscany. Â There are three ways you can go:1. Find a holiday let on one of the big sites and ask for long term. Â (not the best option as this can be pricy and not stable, but may be a good temporary solution)2. Find a long term "tourist" rental. Â This is an agreement of up to 18 months. Â Rents will be lower and most properties will be fully furnished. Â Expect to pay for all utilities, 1-3 months damage deposit and a commission of usually 1 months rent to the agent.3. Find a long term lease. Â 4 years + 4 year renewal is the new regular term here. Â This may seem long, But be advised, in Italy, laws are very tenant friendly so although you can get an 8 year commitment from the owner, you can always break the lease, without penelty, by giving 6 months notice. Â This option will be the best price properties, can be furnished or unfurnished, and you will pay all utilities and one months rent commission. Â Most owners will also ask a 3 month damage deposit.i hope this helps! Â