In the heart of the Lombardy region, nestles the picturesque town of Leggiuno. Known for its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, Leggiuno is a precious gem on the shores of Lake Maggiore. The town is home to the famous Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, a heritage site that beautifully reflects its medieval history. Geographically, it’s framed by the grand peaks of the Swiss Alps to the north and the vibrant cityscape of Milan to the south.
Exclusive Property Market in Leggiuno
The current exclusive property market in Leggiuno is relatively stable. This buoyant market situation can be attributed to a balanced ratio of demand and supply of luxury homes and apartments. The local political and economic situation remains as tranquil as the serene Lake Maggiore, further adding to the investment appeal.
Understanding the Costs
In terms of costs, the real estate commission, for both the buyer and the seller, roughly ranges around 3-5%. Additional costs such as transfer tax, notary fees and legal costs need to be taken into account when purchasing a luxury home. The transfer tax on private property stands at approximately 9%, while the wealth tax on private home ownership is levied at 0.76%.
Profits made from selling a privately owned home used as a main residence is tax-free in Leggiuno, while profits from selling a second/vacation home are taxed at a rate of 26%. The corporate tax on profits for registered companies is around 24% and income tax for registered residents ranges from 23% to 43%, depending on income.
Mortgage Requirements and Luxury Areas
When it comes to obtaining a mortgage, the own to foreign capital ratio must be strictly maintained at 80:20 and the income requirements vary according to the loan amount. The mortgage one can get can cover up to 80% of the purchase price.
Leggiuno hosts some of the most affluent neighborhoods near Lake Maggiore, with the areas near the Santa Caterina Hermitage being particularly desirable.
Accessibility and Infrastructure
Leggiuno enjoys excellent road and rail links, including the State Road 394 running along the coast of the lake, and railway station served by the Milan-Domodossola line. Milan, the nearest big city, is an hour’s drive away, while the international airports of Malpensa and Linate are 34 km and 87 km away, respectively.
In terms of education, the nearest universities are Insubria University in Varese and Bicocca University in Milan. Leggiuno is a part of the Varese province and has around 3900 inhabitants.
Lifestyle and Amenities in Leggiuno
Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, Leggiuno offers myriads of sports and outdoor activities. From hiking in the nearby Natural Park of Lagoni to water sports on Lake Maggiore, there’s plenty to indulge in.
For the luxury shopper, the nearby city of Milan offers a world-class shopping experience. High-quality hotels such as the Relais Casali della Cisterna and the stylish Bella Vista Hotel provide excellent accommodation. Fine dining restaurants such as La Foresta and Osteria del Castello offer a tasteful blend of local and international cuisine. The annual "Sacred Mount and Fairy-Tale Castles" event is a major attraction.
Famous for its contribution to the cultural sphere, Leggiuno is home to the famous Museum of the Sasso Ballaro. A state-of-the-art hospital, Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, is located in nearby Varese, providing excellent medical facilities. The public infrastructure is well-maintained, aligning with the luxurious lifestyle that Leggiuno has to offer.