Documents
If you decide to buy a house, you’ll be expected to sign a “compromesso”. (The word means you and the seller are now “compromised”). The compromesso binds buyer to an impending buy/sell agreement, “L’Atto di Compra/Vendita”. The “Atto” follows as soon as the buyer puts together the money needed to close the deal. A down payment, paid with the signing of the compromesso is known as the “caparra” (“earnest money”). It could be any amount as long as it is acceptable to the seller. The “Compromesso” is a private document between buyer and theseller. The “Atto” is a legal document signed in the presence of a notary whicbecomes the legal basis for work permits, etc.

Il Geometra
The Geometra is the key officer in any building or remodeling project. He or she is trained in archetectural design and civic engineering. The Geometra’s role is that of being the interface between building projects and the civic authorities. The Geometra researchs registry archives establishing boundaries of what is being bought, supervises work performed and maintains the project’s file of costs and authorizations.

Costs vs Impatience
You can save some money if you're not in too much of a hurry to get your project finished. If you give your contractors plenty of time, they will probably trim as much as 30% off their prices. Demanding completion in record time can result in above average costs.

Ending up Right!!
When all is said and done, if you’ve done it right, you should be experiencing minimum disappointment and a maximum of pleasure. That means, among other things, that you handled, for instance, the “water situation” correctly by putting in your well, getting the right capacity reserve tanks, catching rain water, etc. Above all, it means you've meshed well with the locals. They break into a smile the minute they see you. You've learned their language, you attend their feasts, you exchange gifts. You're part of the picture. You're living in Umbria.