Hi there
Good luck with your venture. I would personally advise that you rent first so you are not rushed into buying a place, many places are easy to rent, but you will have to sign a contract for 4 years. It is standard, unless you take a long term rent on a holiday property, but this could be more expensive.
Forums like this are good to find infomation, but if you are still struggling for answers, then i would get incontact with the Italian Consulate. There are many based in the uk, and they offer their advise free. Just do a google search to find the nearest to you. I also have a contact for both the Italian consulate and property lawyers, they could advise. They are good friends of mine based in the uk. If you want the details feel free to email on
miccapup@tiscali.co.uk
Regards
Gill