The Italian property market has a particularly wide range of bargains available for under £150,000, it has been stated.

Umbria property is included in this, despite being a more expensive region than most in the country, the Times reports.

The paper quoted the example of a three-bedroom cottage in Castiglione del Lago near the border with Tuscany, available for £149,000.

Buyers looking for cheap Umbria property may have to do their research, noted the director of Clutton’s Estate Agency Linda Travella, who said the bargains "take some hunting down".

The town of Castiglione del Lago has more to offer Umbria property seekers than just the price of homes there.

Around the end of April and the start of May each year the town hosts the international Painting the Skies kite festival, which also includes hot air balloon displays, plus food tasting, films and art exhibitions.

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