A one euro home in Italy

I have been intrigued by the idea of purchasing a home in Italy for one euro ever since first reading about it in 2019. This is the year when the scheme was first implemented and made international headlines.

There was an overwhelming response that continues today as the number of properties advertised increases. There are countless abandoned homes in small towns and villages that have become dying communities as people have left to find work.

The one euro home is a wonderful incentive to entice people, mainly foreigners, to consider a lifestyle change - a big lifestyle change! Think about it though. Small towns are brought back to life and people fulfil the ‘living in Italy’ dream for a relatively small amount of money. What could possibly go wrong?

Many foreigners have taken up the offer and created an enviable lifestyle in Italy. It is an incredible thing to see forgotten villages coming to life and building a vibrant community again. The result has been an increase in the number of abandoned houses on the market for one euro, or a very cheap price.

So what are the pros and cons?

You will not be living in Rome, Florence, Venice or the quintessential Tuscan village for obvious reasons. The whole objective is to breathe life into underpopulated rural villages at risk of becoming ghost towns.

As you would expect, the houses are in a poor state of repair and have often been abandoned for a long time. Of course, they are going to cost money to restore. Depending on the location and the town council, there may be a requirement to commit to 10 or 20,000 euros to be able to put in an offer.

You are also required to renovate a dilapidated property within a limited timeframe (usually three years) and live there permanently for at least five years, so this is not an investment opportunity. Given the homes are located in remote villages, it is unlikely that you would make money on the property should you decide to sell in the future.

To be able to navigate property laws and regulations; open an Italian bank account; communicate with trades people; know about hidden costs; understand the culture and customs of the region - being able to speak Italian is a huge advantage. Perhaps even necessary. Even to live in the town for a while is beneficial to get to know the locals, earn their trust, make friends and establish contacts.

A more alluring proposition

Another initiative on offer is to buy an old, but cheap home that is immediately liveable and only in need of minor renovation. This is appealing because the village may not be as isolated; the costs for fixing it up are far more transparent and you are still purchasing at a bargain price.

5 places in Italy where you can buy a one euro home in 2025

Triora, Liguria

In the region famous for the Cinque Terre and swamped with tourists from around the world, there is a little village not far from Italy’s border with France. Triora is nestled in the Argentina valley, on the Ligurian Alps, with a local population of less than 400. The village is one of the Borghi piu belli d’Italia - a list of the 100 most beautiful towns and villages in Italy. It has also been awarded a Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag) - a prestigious achievement recognising excellence in tourism and hospitality. Seriously tempting.

Ollolai, Sardinia

If you love rugged mountains, natural beauty, amazing views, hiking and cycling, this one’s for you. The small village of 1200 people in rural Sardinia made international headlines last November after local authorities offered one euro homes to Americans looking to relocate overseas following Donald Trump’s election win. Ollolai is also famous for its historical and archaeological heritage, cultural festivals and culinary traditions.

Pratola Peligna, Abruzzo

Yet another small and charming town in the province of L’Aquila in the region of Abruzzo. Located only 1.5 hour’s drive from Rome, 40 minutes drive from both the famous ski resort of Roccaraso and the coastal town of Pescara, nothing is too far away. Remember, the average width of Italy is 160 kilometres! The town is famous for its medieval architecture and cultural traditions.

Chiaromonte, Basilicata

Perched on a hill in the Pollino national park, in Italy’s southern Basilicata region, Chiaromonte is a small town of around 1,700 people. This is a perfect choice for nature lovers and those seeking the peace and tranquility of rural life. The town is only just over an hour’s drive from Maratea on the west coast and a two hour drive from Salerno on the Amalfi Coast.

Troina, Sicily

Located in the mountainous province of Enna, eastern Sicily, Troina is one of the island’s oldest towns, with roots dating back to 7th century settlements established by the Sicels tribe.

The town, which is home to around 8,500 residents, is also one of the Borghi piu belli d’Italia, and entered the one euro home market in 2021.

For anyone exploring the temptation of a home in Italy, think about whether you would prefer to live in the north or south, on the coast or in the mountains, and then research the region followed by the towns where there are properties for sale.

As I have often written, every region in Italy is different, offering so much to fall in love with, including the landscape, history, culture, people, food and traditions. Italy is a small country, so even in isolated towns and villages you are never too far away from the coast or a bigger town or city.

When I read the many stories about Australians who have chosen this life, the general theme is a less stressful way of living; a way to find a balance in life and the ability to live far more cheaply whilst still enjoying an enviable lifestyle.

My “how to get a visa to live in Italy” journey continues!

Ci vediamo la prossima settimana.

Deb

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