There’s something magical about starting your day in Florence. The city’s charm lies not only in its iconic landmarks but in its quiet corners, bustling markets, and the feeling of history all around you. Two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of spending my day here, scouting properties for one of my American clients dreaming of an Italian home.
The day began early, with a cappuccino and a slice of Panettone at Caffè Gilli, an iconic spot in Piazza della Repubblica. The morning light filtered through the grey clouds, casting a golden glow on the cobblestones. The air was crisp, and the city was just beginning to wake up, with locals rushing to work and tourists starting their adventures. I couldn’t help but take a moment to soak it all in—Florence always has a way of making you feel like you’ve stepped into a painting.
My first appointment of the day was in the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops and authentic Florentine vibe. The apartment was located in a historic palazzo with high ceilings and intricate frescoes. It had a small terrace overlooking a hidden garden—the kind of place that makes you dream of quiet mornings with a coffee in hand. But as beautiful as it was, a closer inspection revealed significant structural issues that would require extensive renovation. It’s always a balancing act between potential and practicality.
The second property took me to the heart of the city, just steps away from the Duomo. This apartment was modern and sleek, a stark contrast to the historic charm outside its windows. The highlight? A rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Florence. It was breathtaking, but the high price tag reflected its prime location and unmatched view. For my client, it was important to weigh the lifestyle benefits against the budget.
The third property of the day was a small apartment in the historic center, with a view of Brunelleschi’s Duomo from its windows. It was the kind of property that seems really interesting at first sight, but the beauty masked serious legal and practical issues. The apartment lacked both habitability certification and compliance with building codes, and neither issue was resolvable. It served as a reminder of why due diligence is so critical in the Italian real estate market—things that look perfect in listings can often hide unfixable problems.
After a quick lunch—a delicious plate of pici—I headed to the fourth property, situated in a quieter neighborhood on the outskirts of Florence. This was a charming, family-friendly apartment with spacious rooms and a large balcony. It ticked many boxes but came with a surprise: the paperwork revealed it lacked habitability certification. Even worse, it wasn’t something that could be easily resolved. Of the four apartments my client had initially chosen for a virtual tour, this was the third one with such critical issues. Only one property turned out to be fully compliant and ready for consideration, highlighting the challenges and importance of thorough research.
The final visit of the day brought me back to the historic center, near Santa Croce. The apartment had a Tuscan rustic feel with exposed beams and terracotta floors. It felt like stepping back in time, yet it was well-maintained and ready to move in. The client’s love for authentic Italian charm made this property a strong contender.
As the day came to an end, I found myself walking along the Arno River, reflecting on the experiences and challenges of the day. Florence never ceases to amaze me—its beauty, its history, and the stories waiting to be discovered in every corner.
This day was a perfect example of why I love what I do. My job isn’t just about finding homes; it’s about finding the right home—a place where dreams can take root and grow. Helping my clients navigate the complexities of the Italian real estate market, protecting them from hidden pitfalls, and seeing their dreams come to life makes every effort worthwhile.
Florence reminded me once again why Italy continues to enchant us all. And for my client, the journey to finding their perfect home is just beginning. I can’t wait to see where it takes us next.
Barbara
