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Revitalizing Milan’s Southeast: MCA Unveils €3.5 Billion Milano Santa Giulia Project

By Columbus International,8 April 20248 April 2024

The new urban plan designed by MCA (Mario Cucinella Architects) has been unveiled, marking one of the largest urban regeneration projects in Italy. The central idea is to create a structure resembling a leaf, connecting services, commercial areas, schools, and residences around what aims to become Milan’s third-largest park. Present at the project’s launch were Mayor Giuseppe Sala and Urban Regeneration Assessor Giancarlo Tancredi.

Milano Santa Giulia is set to become a new gateway to the city and a neighborhood featuring residences, services, and retail spaces. It represents one of the major urban revitalization initiatives in Lombardy’s capital, focusing on the Southeast quadrant and the former industrial areas of Montedison. Total estimated investments for the project exceed €3.5 billion. Led by Lendlease, a real estate giant responsible for the area, the project will deliver 3,500 new housing units catering to various market segments, from private residences to student and senior living, to the innovative build-to-rent model. Lendlease will also oversee the development of business, food, and commercial districts. These complexes will be located adjacent to the multifunctional arena of Milano Cortina 2026 and a 260,000 square meter park. The masterplan, signed by MCA – Mario Cucinella Architects, envisions a total development of 1.1 million square meters, with completion targeted for 2032 and a strong emphasis on sustainability. Starting from June 2023, Lendlease, already engaged in the city with the Mind operation, acquired surface and development rights for the entire area, currently managed through the Msg Heartbeat real estate closed-end fund owned by Lendlease Sgr. With this acquisition, the fund becomes the effective promoter of the regeneration of the Northern Area.

Of the total €3.5 billion, €2.7 billion will be invested by the international real estate and urban regeneration group, with additional contributions from other parties, such as the Canadian pension fund PSP Investment, which invested in the Spark Business District. According to Fabrizio Zichichi, executive project director at Lendlease, this investment marks a significant step forward for the city, as highlighted by Mayor Beppe Sala during an event emphasizing the importance of developing Milan’s Southeast quadrant in the coming years. Milano Santa Giulia benefits from its privileged location, with access to Linate Airport, the ring road and highway system, the high-speed FS station at Rogoredo, and metro lines M3 and M4, surrounded by natural areas on the outskirts of the city. The new neighborhood aims to attract over 10 million visitors annually, including residents, students, event spectators at the Arena, athletes, and workers. It will be divided into two main zones, North and South, connected by pedestrian and cycling paths, public transport, and a promenade. The North zone will host commercial spaces and sports and recreational services near the multifunctional Eventim Arena, home to the 2026 Olympic Games.

Residences in the area will focus on the concept of sustainable living. The South zone will feature the Spark Business District, with offices and residences, as well as cultural institutions like the Conservatory of Music and the Spark Food District, dedicated to food and beverage. Manager Zichichi announced the imminent launch of the “Who we are Msg” campaign, which will activate the neighborhood with social, cultural, and sports initiatives, in preparation for the Olympics and beyond.

Image via Lendlease

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck: The Hollywood Power Couple on the Hunt for a Home in the Upper East Side

By Columbus International,4 April 20244 April 2024

In a city renowned for its luxury residences, the power couple of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck is once again making headlines as they set their sights on exclusive properties in the Upper East Side of New York City. Sources close to the couple have revealed to Gimme Shelter their recent forays into the Big Apple, where they’ve been spotted exploring exquisite residences befitting Hollywood royalty. Among the properties that have caught their discerning eyes was a family-sized townhouse located at 226 E. 68th St., with an impressive price tag of $45,000 per month.

Another noteworthy stop on their tour was a stunning 3,024-square-foot townhouse at 342 E. 69th St., currently listed for $5.95 million. Clad in her distinctive style, J. Lo, a seasoned real estate investor, exuded elegance as she explored potential new abodes alongside Affleck. Despite her ventures into new territories, Lopez remains rooted in the New York real estate scene, retaining ownership of a penthouse at the renowned Whitman in NoMad, a property she acquired for $20.2 million back in 2014. With exclusive access granted to Gimme Shelter, it was revealed that her penthouse, nestled among esteemed neighbors including Chelsea Clinton and her family, is currently listed for $24.99 million. While Lopez’s Bronx roots add a touch of authenticity to her New York endeavors, her presence in the city isn’t solely tied to her real estate commitments. Reports from Page Six suggest she’s in town to shoot a new rendition of the beloved classic, “Kiss of the Spider Woman.” This cinematic venture, following in the footsteps of its predecessors that garnered critical acclaim, adds another layer of excitement to Lopez’s packed schedule. In their quest for the perfect New York residence, Lopez and Affleck spared no expense in exploring luxurious options.

A standout property that caught their attention is a spacious 6,700-square-foot townhouse on East 68th Street. With six bedrooms, six bathrooms, and an array of luxurious amenities including radiant floors and an elevator, this townhouse embodies modern opulence. Its carefully designed interiors, adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of a landscaped garden, elevate the concept of urban luxury living. Not far from their initial discovery, the couple set their sights on another prestigious residence. A four-story masterpiece meticulously crafted by AD100 designer Timothy Corrigan, enticed them with its timeless elegance. Featuring exclusive details like a wood-burning fireplace, spa-style bathrooms, and a terrace boasting breathtaking city views, this residence expertly blends classic charm with contemporary comforts.

While details regarding their potential acquisition remain hidden, one thing is certain: the allure of New York City’s Upper East Side has once again captured the hearts of Hollywood’s elite. With esteemed brokers Thomas Wexler, Morgan Garofalo, and Tyler Wexler of Leslie J. Garfield at the helm guiding them on this journey, Lopez and Affleck are poised to make a statement in the city that never sleeps. As the saga of their house hunt unfolds, all eyes remain eagerly fixed on the next chapter of this New York power couple’s story.

Jeff Bezos Buys Third Mansion in Indian Creek: Controversy Among Residents

By Columbus International,4 April 20249 November 2024

Jeff Bezos, the visionary force propelling Amazon to unprecedented heights, continues to fortify his dominion over the esteemed Indian Creek island, securing a third opulent mansion in his illustrious real estate portfolio.

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In a discreet off-market transaction shrouded in exclusivity, the acquisition commands a staggering price tag hovering around the $90 million mark, as reported by Bloomberg, thus elevating Bezos’ standing as a titan in the realm of property acquisitions. Insiders familiar with the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity to The Post, divulged Bezos’ intentions to make this newly acquired residence his primary abode, while concurrently orchestrating the dismantling of his two preceding island abodes. Nevertheless, this audacious maneuver hasn’t gone unnoticed by the affluent denizens of the island, who covet their own slice of the prestigious enclave. “As the pinnacle destination in the nation, exclusivity reigns supreme on Indian Creek. The wealthy elite are drawn to its allure,” confided a source well-versed in the area’s real estate dynamics.

“With properties on the island already in high demand, Bezos’ clandestine dealings are bound to stir the aspirations of those vying for residency.” The revered Indian Creek island, spanning a scant 300 acres, is home to only 41 residential estates alongside the esteemed Indian Creek Country Club. Representatives for Bezos have remained tight-lipped regarding the transaction. Historical records reveal that the property last changed hands in 1998 for a modest $2.5 million, exemplifying the astronomical surge in its valuation over the intervening years. Bezos’ latest venture into the Miami real estate arena follows swiftly on the heels of his relocation from the Seattle region to the sun-kissed shores of the Sunshine State. With a formidable net worth totaling $203.7 billion, as per the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, Bezos epitomizes the epitome of luxurious living. His prior acquisitions on Indian Creek, amassing a staggering $147 million, firmly entrench him within the echelons of the island’s elite. With his residences boasting prestigious addresses such as 11 Indian Creek Island Rd, 12 Indian Creek Island Rd, and his latest acquisition at 28 Indian Creek Island Road, Bezos’ investment in the area now eclipses a staggering $237 million.

Often dubbed the “Billionaire Bunker,” Indian Creek counts amongst its residents illustrious figures such as power couple Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump, football maestro Tom Brady, and esteemed investor Carl Icahn. Bezos’ presence on the island adds yet another luminary to its glittering constellation of residents. While Bezos’ financial acumen is undeniably formidable, his recent maneuvers have ignited speculation regarding his long-term strategies and investment trajectories. In February, he divested Amazon shares worth an eye-watering $8.5 billion, marking his first substantial departure from the company since 2021. The allocation of these proceeds remains shrouded in mystery, further fueling conjecture surrounding Bezos’ fiscal machinations.

Beyond his acquisitions in Miami, Bezos boasts an impressive array of properties, including residences in Washington, a sumptuous estate in Maui, and a grandiose mansion in Beverly Hills, procured for a princely sum of $165 million in 2020. The seller of Bezos’ latest acquisition, situated at 28 Indian Creek Island Road, is identified as former banker Javier Holtz, thus adding another chapter to the island’s storied legacy of opulent transactions.

The Private Club Scene in New York: A Haven for the Elite

By Columbus International,2 April 2024

New York City, often touted as the concrete jungle where dreams are made, is also home to some of the most exclusive and prestigious private clubs in the world. These enclaves cater to the elite, offering not just social status but access to luxurious amenities, culinary delights, and a network of influential individuals. Let’s delve into some of the most notable private clubs shaping the social landscape of the Big Apple.

Core Club: Redefining Luxury and Community
Nestled within the opulent confines of the SHVO-owned building at 711 Fifth Avenue lies the illustrious Core Club. Founded by CEO Jennie Enterprise, Core Club embodies a commitment to curating a global community of individuals driven by curiosity, cultural exploration, and a passion for life without compromise. With initiation fees ranging from $15,000 to $100,000, Core Club offers its members a plethora of amenities spread across its 60,000 square feet of space.

From rejuvenating spa treatments to a meticulously curated wine library overseen by sommelier Yannick Benjamin, Core Club spares no expense in delivering unparalleled experiences. Members can indulge in culinary delights crafted by renowned chefs like Michele Brogioni, whose Mediterranean-inspired cuisine promises to tantalize the taste buds and foster bonds akin to Italian family gatherings.

ZZ’s Club: Where Culinary Excellence Meets Exclusivity
Helmed by the culinary virtuoso Mario Carbone, ZZ’s Club at Hudson Yards beckons discerning palates with its bespoke dining experiences. Carbone’s unwavering dedication to culinary perfection is evident in dishes like the Lobster Risotto all’Arrabbiata, meticulously prepared to order, ensuring each bite is a symphony of flavors. With initiation fees of $20,000 and annual dues of $10,000, ZZ’s Club is a sanctuary for those seeking gastronomic indulgence in an atmosphere of refined elegance.

SoHo House: A Tale of Glamour and Struggle
Once a bastion of coolness, SoHo House finds itself at a crossroads amidst reports of an existential crisis and dwindling appeal among New York’s elite. Despite its storied past and celebrity allure, the club grapples with criticisms of overcrowding and subpar service, prompting questions about its future viability. With speculations of a potential privatization looming, SoHo House stands at a pivotal juncture, navigating the delicate balance between exclusivity and accessibility.

Casa Cipriani: A Symphony of Italian Luxury
Nestled within Lower Manhattan’s historic Battery Maritime Building, Casa Cipriani epitomizes the epitome of contemporary Italian luxury. With its restrained opulence and panoramic views of the East River, Casa Cipriani transports guests to a bygone era of sophistication and refinement. Under the stewardship of design legend Thierry Despont, the club exudes an ambiance reminiscent of vintage luxury ocean liners, offering guests an immersive experience steeped in Italian charm and hospitality.

The Knickerbocker Club: A Legacy of Exclusivity
Established in 1871 by dissatisfied members of the Union Club, The Knickerbocker Club remains a bastion of exclusivity and tradition. With a rich history boasting notable members like Douglas Fairbanks and JP Morgan, The Knick continues to uphold its legacy of elitism, maintaining a strict men-only policy and a code of secrecy shrouded in intrigue.

The Lotus Club: A Haven for Literary and Artistic Minds
Since its inception in 1870, The Lotus Club has served as a sanctuary for literary and artistic luminaries seeking intellectual stimulation and camaraderie. From Mark Twain to Arthur Conan Doyle, the club has played host to some of history’s most renowned figures, embodying its mission to promote literature, art, and culture. With its illustrious past and commitment to fostering creative expression, The Lotus Club remains a beacon of enlightenment in the heart of New York City.

Metropolitan Club: A Symbol of Prestige and Tradition
Founded in 1891 by luminaries like JP Morgan and Cornelius Vanderbilt II, the Metropolitan Club stands as a testament to the union of social duty and intellectual pursuits. Housed within a majestic Renaissance Revival structure, the club exudes an aura of grandeur and refinement, offering members a sanctuary for socializing and intellectual exchange amidst the hustle and bustle of Midtown Manhattan.

University Club: Bridging Academia and Social Life
Rooted in the celebration of intellectual pursuits, the University Club of New York has stood as a beacon of erudition and social camaraderie since its inception in 1865. With its storied history and prestigious membership, the club serves as a nexus for scholars, professionals, and thought leaders, fostering a vibrant community dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment.

In the tapestry of New York’s social landscape, private clubs serve as exclusive sanctuaries where the elite gather to indulge in luxury, foster connections, and bask in the glow of prestige. From culinary extravagance to intellectual stimulation, these enclaves offer a cornucopia of experiences, each contributing to the rich tapestry of New York City’s social fabric.

Florence: the heart of real estate investment still beats. Here’s what emerges from a Tecnocasa study

By Columbus International,1 April 20241 April 2024

The real estate market in Florence continues to attract investors, as revealed by a recent study conducted by Tecnocasa. In 2023, 23% of property purchases were made for investment purposes, a figure higher than the national average of 19.5%.

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However, Florence ranks below other Italian cities such as Verona, which boasts a significant 43.1%, followed by Naples (41.2%), Palermo (35.3%), and Milan (35%). The most active age groups in terms of real estate investments are those between 45 and 64 years old, representing 59.2% of the total, with an increasing average age compared to 2022. The two-room apartment remains the preferred housing type for investors, chosen by 38.5% of them, followed by the three-room apartment at 26.9%. The majority of buyers, accounting for 63%, are couples and families, while 37% are single individuals. The latter group has seen a significant increase in market share compared to the previous year, rising from 32.4% to 37%. 81.5% of investors purchase properties paying in cash, while only 18.5% opt for bank financing.

This percentage reflects a further decline compared to previous years, in line with the national trend, attributed by Tecnocasa to the progressive increase in interest rates, prompting investors to avoid bank loans. According to Tecnocasa, in the past year, there has been a further decrease in real estate purchases through mortgages, as the rise in interest rates has encouraged investors to prefer direct purchases without the assistance of financial institutions.

The LEGO Group and Percassi redefine Milan’s real estate space

By Columbus International,28 March 2024

The Italian real estate landscape is destined for a vigorous evolution, catalyzed by the strategic alliance between the LEGO Group and Percassi, poised to inaugurate their latest endeavor in the heart of Milan.

March 29 marks an unmissable moment with the opening of the 26th LEGO Certified Store, located at Via Dante 4, an enchanting oasis of creativity embraced by the vibrant city center. The inauguration will be anchored by an unprecedented event: facing the store, in Piazza Cordusio, stands a monumental LEGO egg, 4 meters tall and weighing 1,200 kg, a captivating installation destined to enchant passersby. Matteo Morandi, CEO of Percassi Retail, shares the enthusiasm for this adventure, emphasizing the importance of positioning this iconic store in the pulsating heart of Milan, renowned as “the new street of Milan”, destined to become a beacon of creativity for all LEGO enthusiasts. Rossana Mastrosimini, Channel Director LEGO Certified Stores West Europe, reinforces this enthusiasm, celebrating the expansion of LEGO’s presence in Italy and the continuous innovation in the retail concept.

The new flagship store skillfully combines digital and physical elements, offering an ‘immersive’ experience that will enchant both young and old alike. As Milan prepares to welcome this new entry into retail, attention on the real estate market remains lively, especially in the context of a 40% decline in mortgages. However, the luxury segment of the real estate shines as a beacon of stability amidst uncertainties, representing only a small fraction of the total market but significantly contributing to its overall value. According to the Observatory of the Luxury Real Estate Market in Italy 2023, Milan excels as the gravity center for the luxury segment, with a stock of over 6 billion euros, representing 13% of the national total. This data remains surprising considering the solidity and consistency of the sector, with 99% of the stock composed of apartments, reflecting constant demand and sustained growth.

This upward trend has not escaped the LEGO giant, which in 2022 has already made its triumphant entry into Florence, converting spaces previously occupied by the Disney store.

In collaboration with Percassi, this new LEGO emporium introduces unprecedented innovation: the “Mosaic Maker”. Customers now have the opportunity to create personalized portraits using only LEGO bricks, through a process that transforms a photo into a set of 4,500 pieces, making the memory tangible and unique. In a context of continuous transformation, the LEGO Group and Percassi emerge as small but great pioneers, redefining not only the retail landscape but also the real estate space, weaving an increasingly vibrant and creative urban fabric for future generations.

Image: LEGO Firenze

Experience Elevated Living: This Stunning New York Apartment Redefines Luxury Living as an Art Form

By Columbus International,27 March 2024

Dear friends,

Today our brokers take you to the sixtieth floor of an apartment located in the heart of Central Park and New York City. The direct elevator entry leads to a spacious full-floor residence, comprising three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. Stunning in design, the northern views offer postcard panoramas of Central Park and beyond, while to the south, views of the river and the skyline of Manhattan.

The finishes demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Direct elevator access leads to the grand entrance gallery finished with white macauba stone floors. Dramatic double doors lead to the spacious living room with intricately patterned floors in smoked solid oak and floor-to-ceiling windows through which to enjoy the views.

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The beautifully designed open kitchen offers views of Central Park, custom cabinets with a light hand-rubbed finish, and countertops and backsplashes in white quartzite and a full suite of everything.

The luxurious primary bedroom suite boasts views of the city’s southern skyline, a spacious dressing room, and a bathroom with a window clad in veined white onyx with a custom bathtub in polished nickel and custom-designed faucets hand-cast.

The secondary bathrooms are finished with gold quartzite and the powder room features a jewel onyx stone sink, floors, and wainscoting.

Descending, here is a two-lane swimming pool with private cabins, sauna and separate treatment rooms, a double-height fitness center with mezzanine terrace, private dining room and chef’s catering kitchen, resident lounge with panoramic terrace, meeting rooms and study, 24-hour attended entrances and dedicated concierge service. Residents will have access to an on-site paddle court, golf simulator, and children’s playroom.

Want to know more? Contact our real estate agents today: info@columbusintl.com

Kim Kardashian’s Skims Scores Prime Fifth Avenue Retail Space at Bargain Rates (The Real Deal)

By Columbus International,25 March 2024

In a strategic move that underscores shifting dynamics in New York City’s retail real estate landscape, Kim Kardashian‘s apparel empire, Skims Body, has secured a coveted lease for a sprawling 20,000-square-foot space on Fifth Avenue. This development comes at a fraction of the cost compared to its predecessor, signaling a savvy business maneuver amidst a changing market. According to reports from The Real Deal and Crain’s, Skims Body inked a deal with Oxford Properties and Crown Acquisitions for at least 75 percent below the previous tenant’s lease rates. The stark difference in pricing was highlighted in a recent report by Fitch Ratings, which also noted adjustments in the mortgage structure backing the Skims space and other properties in the vicinity. While specific lease details remain undisclosed, industry experts speculate that Skims Body’s rental rates could be well below the $770 per square foot paid by Versace, the former occupant, as reported by KBRA in 2022.

This suggests that Skims Body is likely paying under $200 per square foot—a substantial reduction reflective of evolving market dynamics. Kim Kardashian’s multifaceted entrepreneurial prowess likely played a pivotal role in securing such advantageous terms, especially as neighboring retailers recalibrate their strategies and vacate Fifth Avenue addresses. This vacancy trend has empowered companies like Skims Body to negotiate from a position of strength, capitalizing on prime retail spaces in iconic locales. Oxford Properties reports full occupancy for Olympic Tower’s retail segment, constituting 28 percent of the property but contributing over 60 percent of total rental revenue. Negotiations are also underway for office space within the same complex, showcasing sustained investor interest despite recent market adjustments. Institutional investors, who have held the mortgage since 2017, recently witnessed Fitch downgrading seven classes associated with the $760 million loan, due for maturity in 2027. The transition in tenant occupancy has coincided with a 13 percent dip in cash flow, now at $56 million annually, since the mortgage’s initial sale. Skims Body is gearing up for a grand opening slated for February, enhancing its brand presence with a high-profile physical retail outlet.

The company’s meteoric rise is mirrored in its valuation, which surged to $4 billion last year—a staggering $800 million leap from 2022 figures. Versace’s gradual exit from the space since 2018, initially signaled by its subleasing efforts, underscores the dynamic shifts reshaping New York’s retail real estate narrative. As Kim Kardashian’s entrepreneurial ventures continue to make waves across industries, Skims Body’s strategic real estate play exemplifies a nuanced understanding of market opportunities amid evolving consumer preferences and economic landscapes. This move not only solidifies the brand’s physical footprint but also underscores the enduring allure of iconic retail addresses amidst transformative market forces.

Photo credit: Skims

La Lombardia è la regione con più transazioni in Italia

Nhood’s Innovative Urban Regeneration Project Set to Transform Piazzale Loreto in Milan into Vibrant Community Hub

By Columbus International,22 March 2024

Carlo Masseroli, CEO of Nhood Italy, shares his vision regarding Piazzale Loreto, emphasizing the potential of the location and the challenges associated with generating commercial pathways in less central and more complex contexts. Speaking to Sole24Ore, Masseroli outlines the “Loc-Loreto Open Community” project, winner of the Reinventing Cities competition launched by the Municipality of Milan in 2021 and currently in the construction phase to redevelop Piazzale Loreto. Masseroli explains that the success of this initiative lies in the synergistic relationship between the public and private sectors, crucial for effective urban and real estate regeneration. Masseroli highlights the strategic importance of Piazzale Loreto in Milan, frequented by a significant number of people using the subway and by residents of the densely populated surrounding area. However, the commercial route along Corso Buenos Aires towards Piazzale Loreto is currently underdeveloped.

The goal of the project is to transform this location into a destination by engaging various market brands to start construction by May. The plan includes installing retail outlets of various sizes to meet the needs of passersby and the local community. An innovative aspect of the project is managing the square as a reference point for the area, a model absent in Milan but present in other cities. Masseroli sees this initiative not only as a local challenge but also as an opportunity to experiment and subsequently export the adopted model. Unlike past attempts with commercial districts, the project aims to create collective value greater than the sum of individual commercial activities. However, bureaucratic complexities have been an obstacle to the success of such initiatives.

The proposed model could be replicated in other underutilized squares, especially those near subway stops, to stimulate retail attractiveness and dissemination, generating added value for surrounding spaces. The project also presents an advantageous socio-economic return on investment (SROI), estimating that every euro invested generates a value of four euros. Rents for commercial spaces near Corso Buenos Aires, near Piazzale Loreto, range from 1,000 to 2,000 euros per square meter per year, and the project envisages the distribution of commercial spaces over a total area of 8,000 square meters. This model, rooted mainly in the Anglo-Saxon world, where commercial districts are privately managed, is also being implemented elsewhere. Nhood is currently implementing a similar project in Spain, confirming the international potential of this innovative urban and commercial regeneration strategy.

The effect of luxury neighborhoods on more peripheral ones: the new real estate trend in Milan

By Columbus International,21 March 2024

A recent real estate report, the “Wealth Report 2024” dedicated to Milan and curated by Knight Frank, an international network specialized in luxury property brokerage, has revealed an interesting phenomenon: the rise in real estate values in luxury neighborhoods such as Porta Nuova is directly influencing prices even in traditionally less central areas like Quarto Oggiaro. Although the report does not explicitly mention these neighborhoods, it highlights the significant impact that the strong demand from foreigners in high-end neighborhoods has had on the growth of real estate prices in Milan in recent years.

Initially, it may seem surprising, considering that the study focuses on Uhnwi, i.e., those with exceptionally high net income (generally exceeding 30 million euros), a rather exclusive buyer segment. However, both Knight Frank’s report and the Tirelli & Partner Observatory confirm that the main buyers of luxury real estate in Milan are precisely these extremely high-income individuals, many of whom are foreigners. The choice of Milan as a destination for high-level business activities in the country is well known, while those seeking a quiet place for retirement or holidays tend to prefer regions such as Tuscany or Sardinia. But what makes Milan so attractive for luxury real estate investments? Christian Dominici, a Milanese accountant, explained that in addition to its status as an important international financial center, Milan also offers a high quality of life, with a vibrant cultural scene and excellent gastronomy. From an investment perspective, Milan stands out as the only Italian city capable of guaranteeing stability in values over time. While a villa in Sardinia may not maintain its value significantly over time, a luxury property in Brera or Corso Magenta offers more concrete profit prospects in the long term. A key factor that has contributed to Milan’s attractiveness for Uhnwi is the favorable tax regime offered by Italian legislation.

Those who transfer their residence to Italy can benefit from a reduced tax of 100,000 euros per year, with an additional 25,000 euros for each additional family member, thus avoiding other taxes on foreign income in countries with which Italy has agreements against double taxation. This tax advantage has led to a significant increase in individuals, including high-level athletes, choosing Milan as their tax residence. Even foreigners with more modest incomes find it advantageous to invest in real estate in Milan thanks to the generous tax incentives offered for the renovation and energy efficiency of homes.

Population registry statistics highlight the significant presence of high-income foreign citizens in Milan, mainly from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States, Switzerland, and Japan, many of whom choose to reside in the central districts of the city. These data confirm the increasingly central role of Milan in the international luxury real estate investment landscape.

Source: Corriere Milano