CompromessoCheck
Guides · Updated 2026-08-07
Notaio, geometra, avvocato, agente: who actually protects you in an Italian purchase
Foreign buyers often assume 'the professionals' collectively have their back. Each figure in an Italian purchase has a specific role and a specific loyalty — and knowing the difference is itself a protection. Here's the cast.
The notaio — impartial by law, chosen by you
A public official, not your advocate: the notary guarantees the deed's legality for both sides — title checks, liens, cadastral declarations, registration. They answer your questions honestly and thoroughly, but they won't negotiate your price or strategize for you. Chosen and paid by the buyer (EUR 2,000-4,000 typically, including taxes handling). Involve them early: their checks are most useful before the compromesso, not at the deed.
The geometra (or architect/engineer) — the building's truth-teller
The technical professional who verifies that the physical building matches its legal papers: permits, cadastral plans, habitability, feasibility of your renovation plans. Essential for rural and renovation purchases. A few hundred euros for a pre-purchase check. Hire your own — the seller's geometra certified the current state of affairs, which is precisely what you want independently verified.
The avvocato — your one true partisan
The only figure whose legal duty is exclusively to you. Worth the EUR 1,500-3,000 when the deal has real complications: donations in the title, pending condoni, disputes, unusual structures, big money. Overkill for a clean apartment purchase with a good notary. The honest rule: hire a lawyer when the documents show reasons to — which requires reading the documents first.
The agente immobiliare — useful, and structurally conflicted
Italian agents legally mediate between both parties and can collect commission from both — meaning their economic interest is that the deal closes, not that it closes well for you. Many are excellent professionals; none are your advisor. Take their help with logistics and local knowledge; take their contract drafts and reassurances as the other side's opening position.
And where we fit
CompromessoCheck is the triage step before the professionals: a plain-English read of your documents that tells you what's in them, what's missing, and which of the figures above your situation actually needs. It replaces confusion, not professionals — and it says so honestly, report by report.
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This guide is general information about Italian law and practice, written by CompromessoCheck. It is not legal advice. Laws change and cases differ: verify your specific situation with a notary or an independent lawyer.