Some banks, thanks to the “First Home Mortgage Guarantee Fund”, have resumed granting so-called 100% mortgages. For many young people these mortgages represent the only way to buy a home. It should be noted, however, that the high LTV (Loan To Value = Ratio between the Mortgage amount and the property Value) always entails (much) higher interest than mortgages with a lower percentage (below 80%).
One of the banks that grants 100% mortgages is Unicredit: https://www.unicredit.it/it/giovani/prestiti/mutuo-valore-italia-giovani.html
100% Mortgages in Rome: what it means today (2026)
The so-called 100% mortgage refers to a loan that covers the full purchase value of the property (or a very high share), reducing or eliminating the equity contribution required at the time of deed signing. In a market like Rome’s, characterized by high prices and long search times, demand is understandably high. However, from a banking standpoint, such an aggressive LTV (loan-to-value) increases risk for the institution and often translates into stricter requirements and higher credit costs compared to a mortgage with a more substantial down payment.
First home guarantee fund: why it is part of the discussion
In Italy, for families who meet the requirements, the First Home Mortgage Guarantee Fund (with rules in force at the time of application) has historically made access to credit more sustainable even with high financing percentages. It is not a "universal promotion": the guarantee is a regulated instrument subject to rankings, quotas and credit worthiness checks. If you are considering a 100% mortgage, it is essential to understand whether your application can benefit from the fund and with what timing, because the bureaucratic component significantly affects approval times.
What banks in Rome require: income stability and creditworthiness
In daily practice, on high-LTV applications banks pay particular attention to: type of contract (permanent employment is more favorable), length of employment, installment/income ratio, presence of solid co-borrowers, absence of negative records (CRIF, Central Credit Register). Property quality also matters: area, maintenance condition, urban planning compliance and complete cadastral documentation reduce perceived risk and may improve the outcome.
Why 100% mortgages cost more (on average)
With the same risk profile, a mortgage with a lower LTV tends to have lower spreads. With high LTV, the bank compensates for the greater risk. For this reason, before choosing a 100% mortgage, it is worth simulating alternative scenarios: for example an 80-90% mortgage with a small down payment from family support, or deferred purchase timing. There is no single answer: it depends on income, age, duration, fixed/variable rate and the institution’s commercial policy.
Practical steps if you buy a home in Rome in 2026
- Pre-approval or blank mortgage: useful for negotiating on price with credibility.
- Appraisal: the bank evaluates the property; any irregularities can block or reduce the financing.
- Insurance and ancillary costs: evaluate them in the APR, not just in the nominal rate.
- Subrogation: if you already have a mortgage, evaluate whether it is worth moving it (it is not automatically convenient).
Frequently asked questions (summary)
Does the 100% mortgage still exist? In some situations yes, but it is not a "standard" offer for everyone: it depends on the bank, creditworthiness, property and ancillary instruments (e.g. public guarantees if applicable).
How long does it take in Rome? Times vary greatly based on the completeness of the documentation and the workload of the bank’s credit department.
Important disclaimer: this article has general informational purposes and does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice. Always verify updated conditions, rates and requirements with your bank or a qualified advisor. Last editorial update: April 2026.