Your own property on Lake Garda - the most beautiful "sea" in Italy

INTERVIEW WITH CHRISTIAN WEISSENSTEINER, LICENSE PARTNER AT VON POLL REAL ESTATE SALÒ.

On the south-western shore of Lake Garda, in a sheltered bay, lies the town of Salò with a population of 10,000. With its charm and picturesque location, it embodies the epitome of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Olive and lemon trees, imposing mountain peaks and, of course, the lake characterize the landscape. A sight that exudes peace and serenity. Despite its privileged location, Salò has retained its authenticity. From there, Christian Weissensteiner, licensed partner at VON POLL REAL ESTATE Salò, and his team look after clients in all matters relating to real estate brokerage on Lake Garda. The real estate expert - who is also active with VON POLL REAL ESTATE stores in Milan and Bolzano - explains why buying a property on Lake Garda is worthwhile and what prospective international buyers in particular should look out for.

Mr. Weissensteiner, why is buying a property on Lake Garda recommended - especially for prospective international buyers?

CHRISTIAN WEISSENSTEINER

The Italian real estate market offers excellent options for investors who want to benefit from both medium-term profits and long-term growth. The Italian tax system is particularly advantageous for international buyers. They benefit from a flat tax rate of 21 percent on rental income. This simplified tax structure is particularly compelling for investors who are looking for steady rental income without the complexity of progressive taxation.

What makes the regions around Lake Garda stand out in particular?

CHRISTIAN WEISSENSTEINER

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy - a top tourist destination that attracts up to 25 million visitors every year. This strong and constant tourist demand underpins the robust local real estate market. The region also benefits from an excellent infrastructure with good road and rail connections and proximity to major international airports. The proximity to Milan, Verona and Venice further increases the popularity of Salò. Lake Garda in particular, with its strong tourism market, is a compelling argument for real estate investment as it offers a mix of stability, high rental yields, great potential for value appreciation and a dynamic economic background. All advantages that are attractive to a wide range of investors.

Interesting. How are real estate prices and rental yields actually developing?

CHRISTIAN WEISSENSTEINER

Property prices in Salò range from 3,000 euros per square meter to 7,000 euros per square meter, with the steady upward trend reflecting the attractiveness of the region. Properties in prime locations are recording annual price increases of 3 percent to 5 percent, which is due to the demand for premium properties and vacation rentals. Short-term rental yields are of particular interest to investors - with gross yields of between 4% and 7% and occupancy rates of up to 90% in some cases during the high season. The economic environment around Lake Garda is simply strong.

Where do most prospective buyers come from? Are they predominantly local or international buyers?

CHRISTIAN WEISSENSTEINER

The real estate market on Lake Garda and in Salò is dominated by international buyers. They make up around 75 percent of the market. Most buyers come from Germany, Austria, England and the Netherlands. But we also have many interested parties from other European countries such as France, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. Italian buyers also play an important role and account for around 25 percent of the market. They mostly come from the surrounding cities.

The buyer base is mainly made up of couples and families, with a significant proportion of best agers looking for retirement properties. Singles form a smaller but sizable market segment. A good understanding of the different buyer profiles helps to adapt marketing strategies and predict market trends in the region.

Which regions around Lake Garda are particularly popular with international buyers?

CHRISTIAN WEISSENSTEINER

Lake Garda offers diverse opportunities for international buyers, with each region having its own charm and advantages. From the exclusive allure of Sirmione to the dynamic energy of Desenzano, the alpine beauty of Riva del Garda, the cultural richness of Torri del Benaco, Lazise and Bardolino and the sophisticated surroundings of Salò, prospective buyers can choose from a range of locations to suit their personal preferences and investment objectives. Knowing these regional characteristics allows for a strategic investment in one of Italy's most prestigious and picturesque real estate markets. My personal favorite location is the Riviera, which stretches from the bay of San Felice to Salò and Gargnano. This shore is much more Italian, freer in architecture and more sophisticated with many starred restaurants and grand hotels. The best restaurants and hotels on the entire lake can be found here.

What criteria do prospective international buyers look for when searching for a property? What is most important to them?

CHRISTIAN WEISSENSTEINER

Properties with an unobstructed view of Lake Garda and direct access to the lake are particularly popular with international buyers. Properties with spacious terraces or private moorings are also in demand. Another important factor for prospective buyers is the exceptional quality of life in Salò. The town has a well-developed infrastructure, including first-class health and educational facilities as well as upscale restaurants, shopping opportunities and cultural facilities. The condition and type of property are also decisive factors. International buyers attach great importance to this and prefer homes that are both aesthetically pleasing and well-maintained. However, there are also many buyers who are particularly interested in homes with renovation potential, as this gives them the opportunity to design the property according to their personal taste and increase its value. The issue of sustainability is also becoming increasingly relevant. International buyers increasingly prefer properties that are equipped with environmentally friendly technologies. Energy-efficient systems and environmental certifications are increasingly in demand.

What financing options are available to international buyers?

CHRISTIAN WEISSENSTEINER

There are a number of financing options in Italy specifically for international buyers, each with their own advantages. For example, there are many international banks with a branch in Italy that provide customized mortgage solutions for international buyers. For example, they offer higher loan-to-value ratios or more flexible terms. If assets are available in different currencies, international banks can offer loans in the customer's preferred currency and thus avoid possible exchange rate fluctuations. In general, it is important to review each option based on the individual financial situation, investment objectives and specifics of the Italian real estate market. Tailor-made advice from qualified local financing and real estate experts is therefore essential to master the complexity of international real estate financing. At VON POLL REAL ESTATE Salò, we are happy to assist you with this.

If a property is purchased as an investment and then used as a vacation property - will it be rented out on a short-term or long-term basis?

CHRISTIAN WEISSENSTEINER

The decision between short-term and long-term rentals should always depend on the investment objectives, the desired level of involvement in property management and the specific characteristics of the property. For investors seeking higher rental yields and willing to take care of management or hire management for frequent guest turnover, short-term rentals may be more profitable. If, on the other hand, owners prefer stability and fewer management tasks, long-term rentals may be the better choice.

And what is your recommendation for Salò?

CHRISTIAN WEISSENSTEINER

In Salò, properties are generally rented on a short-term basis due to the city's strong tourist appeal and high seasonal demand. Salò's location on Lake Garda and its attractiveness as a tourist destination create a strong demand for short-term accommodation. This can lead to higher rental income in the high season. On the other hand, short-term rentals in touristy areas such as Salò often achieve high overnight rates - especially if the property has desirable features such as lake access or a beautiful view - and thus guarantee first-class rental yields. In addition, short-term rentals offer greater flexibility in terms of use. The owners can use the property for their own vacation when it is not rented out - that can be a great advantage.

Dear Mr. Weissensteiner, thank you very much for the interesting conversation.

For more information about the team around Christian Weissensteiner from VON POLL REAL ESTATE Salò as well as the current real estate offer on site, contact details and much more, please visit: https://www.von-poll.com/de/immobilienmakler/salo