If you own an apartment in areas such as Via Etnea, Via Passo Gravina, the Borgo district, or near Piazza Dante, you are holding a high-yield asset. Catania hosts one of the largest student populations in Italy, and the demand for beds shows no signs of crisis.
However, renting to students is not the same as renting to a family. Here is our guide to doing it professionally and safely in 2026.
1. The "Canone Concordato" (Agreed-Rate) Contract: Your Best Ally Many owners in Catania still use "free-market" contracts or, worse, verbal agreements. This is a huge mistake. Why it’s worth it: The specific "University Student" contract (from 6 to 36 months) allows access to the Cedolare Secca tax rate at 10% (instead of 21%) and IMU tax reductions. Security: it provides clear rules on maintenance and the division of building expenses, avoiding disputes at the end of the year.
2. Furnishing: Functionality Over Aesthetics (But First Impressions Matter) The student of 2026 is no longer looking for "grandma’s old house" with 1950s furniture. Must-haves: High-speed Wi-Fi (essential!), a spacious desk in every room, new mattresses, and a functional kitchen. Domus Advice: Investing a few thousand euros in modern, colorful furniture (think Swedish style) allows you to increase the rent by 15-20% and select the best tenants.
3. Managing Risk: The Parental Guarantee The main risk with students is not so much non-payment (as parents usually pay), but rather property damage or noise complaints. The magic clause: Always have parents sign the contract as joint guarantors (garanti in solido). This ensures that, in case of issues, you have a solvent and responsible point of contact. Condo rules: Always provide a copy of the building regulations to the students. Remind them that while life in Catania is vibrant, respecting neighbors is the foundation for a lasting stay.
4. Renting by "Room" vs. Renting the Entire Apartment In Catania, the trend is clear: renting per bed or per room yields much higher returns. Example: A three-room apartment in Borgo rented to a family might yield €700. The same apartment divided into 3 student rooms at €350 each (all-inclusive) can reach €1,050. The commitment: Managing three contracts is obviously more demanding than managing one. This is where professional agency management becomes essential.
5. Top Areas to Invest Today
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Cittadella / Policlinico: Always saturated. You will never have a single day of vacancy here.
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Historic Center (Benedettini/Piazza Dante): Ideal for humanities students. The charm of period houses with high ceilings is a huge draw, especially for Erasmus students.
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Corso Italia / Tribunale: Targeted at law or economics students, who often look for more elegant settings.
The Domus Sicilia Touch Managing a student house in Catania takes time: utility transfers, minor repairs, and replacing tenants who complete their studies. Want to invest but don't have time to manage the students? At Domus Sicilia, we don't just find the tenant: we filter the best profiles, verify parental guarantees, and help you maximize the yield of your property beneath the volcano.
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