Italy property buyers seeking to buy a residence in Rome will be investing in one of the most expensive cities in the world, according to a new survey.

The Global Property Guide’s World’s Most Expensive Residential Real Estate Markets 2009 poll ranked Rome the ninth most highly-priced city in the world.

It found that Italy property buyers can expect to pay an average of $9,166 (£6,331) per sq m for a dwelling in the ancient city.

Monte Carlo in Monaco topped the survey, with property there costing investors $47,578 per sq m on average.

This was more than double the cost of property in Moscow, which was named the second most expensive real estate market in the world.

Italy property owners seeking to rent their house were recently given some advice by lawyer and property consultant Alison Harris.

Speaking to Shelter Offshore, Ms Harris urged prospective landlords to create a website advertising their property as well as consider hiring someone to undertake the task of greeting guests and cleaning the house for changeover.

Visit Rightmove Overseas for the best selection of Italy property. Stop dreaming, start searching!