Liguria's hinterland one of the most stable markets for investors

Italy property seekers can pick up bargains in inland areas of Liguria; the warm, colorful Italian Riviera has long been adored by international visitors. Liguria is not a cheap region for property, but it remains a good investment but particularly right now in its lovely, lesser-known hinterland.

Liguria is enviably blessed in its location, climate and geography stretching from southern France's gilded Côte d'Azur to the northern tip of sunny Tuscany. The region enjoys a wonderfully mild climate with moderately cool and fresh summers yielding to mild winters. No wonder then that Liguria is one of Italy's most visited regions and a very popular spot for retirees and second-home-owners.

Holiday rental prospects and homes are particularly plentiful. However, the beachside property is generally pricier in the east than the west but costs tumble even just a short distance inland. Over recent years, an increasing number of Brits have discovered the delights of Liguria's hilly hinterland - especially in the region's western half - Buyers can find very good-value fully-habitable homes with two bedrooms less than ten miles from the sea for between €100,000 and €200,000 whereas In beach resorts, buyers should expect to pay more than €250,000 for a two-bedroom apartment.

Mark Slaviero, director of the estate agency Homes in Italy, agrees that most British buyers prefer to look at the pretty little villages further inland in Liguria. Mark notes that the high prices on Liguria’s coast have stabilized, while prices inland are still rising. Linda Travella, of the estate agency Casa Travella, advises buyers to limit their search to no further than ten miles from the sea. This way, they can optimize savings by buying inland without compromising the future resale value or holiday rentability.

In related news, Italian property specialist Gemma Knowles stated: "Nice apartments in towns can cost from around £215,000 while inland buyers can find homes in charming hilltop villages or farmhouses from around £130,000."