FREE GUIDE
The 5 Mistakes International Buyers Make Before They Own a Stone in Italy
After eight years managing historic restorations across Tuscany, these are the five decisions we see go wrong most often — and the ones that cost the most to undo.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
The decisions that feel small at the time — and aren’t.
- Why the document you signed at the viewing may already be legally binding — and what most agents won’t explain until it’s too late.
- The role everyone assumes is protecting them (the Notary) — and why that assumption can cost you your negotiating position.
- The real cost gap between the number in your head and the number on the final invoice — and where the hidden 30% lives.
WHO THIS IS FOR
You’re seriously considering buying property in Italy — or you’re already in the process and something doesn’t feel right. You’re an English speaker navigating a system designed in a language you don’t fully understand, with professionals whose roles aren’t what you think they are. This guide is the conversation you wish someone had with you before you signed anything.
WHO ARE WE
Candida Surgenor
Candida’s design career began in London with Candy & Candy, the luxury developers synonymous with some of the world’s most prestigious residential projects. From there, Candida spent almost a decade leading five-star hotel and luxury private residence interiors at Blainey North in Australia. Her career has brought her into collaboration with some of the most respected names in international design — among them Zaha Hadid, Kelly Hoppen and Andrew Martin, for clients ranging from movie stars to captains of industry. The result is a designer who brings rare international depth to every project — and an instinctive understanding of what discerning clients expect.
Tim Surgenor
Tim trained as a lawyer in London before building a career in property development and architectural management. That combination — legal rigour applied to construction oversight — means your investment is protected at every stage. Contracts, permits, contractors, costs: nothing is left to chance.
Based in Tuscany and fluent in both the language and the culture, Candida and Tim founded Studio Casatua to give international investors something that had always been missing: a team with genuine local expertise and the international standards to match.
Design and Develop your dream home in Italy.
Studio Casatua
Tuscany, Italy
Email us at
hello@casatua.studio
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