Brazilian entrepreneur Rubia Andrade Daniels made an extraordinary discovery while vacationing in Indonesia—houses in Italy being sold for just one euro.
Initially skeptical, she conducted her own research and confirmed the legitimacy of the ads. Without hesitation, she took action, writes UOL in its latest report.
The sale of one-euro houses in small Italian towns began in 2014 and gained popularity over the years, attracting interest from renowned regions like Tuscany, Sicily, Sardinia, and more.
The initiative aims to revive abandoned properties, counter the exodus of young people to larger cities, and sustain villages predominantly inhabited by the elderly.
Each location has its own specific rules.
In January 2019, Rubia traveled to Mussomeli, a town in Sicily, where the demand for these affordable houses was relatively low.
Facilitated by an authorized real estate agency, she purchased three properties in the town’s historic center, with an additional property bought by her daughter.
Preserving the historical aspects during renovations was a requirement.
Buyers have up to three years to renovate the houses and obtain ownership through a deed, which costs between 3,000 and 3,500 euros, along with a service fee paid to the real estate agency.
Rubia began renovating her first house in 2019 but had to halt the work due to pandemic-related travel restrictions.
It resumed in late 2022, adhering to the extended deadline.
Each property will serve a different purpose, including a vacation home, an art gallery currently under construction, and a future wellness center.
Renovation costs vary based on size and condition, ranging from as low as 2,000 euros to around 20,000 to 25,000 euros.
Despite the nominal one-euro purchase price, the renovation costs are still a worthwhile investment.
Rubia has found Mussomeli a welcoming place, forming connections with locals and building new friendships.
She has also assisted in selling over 100 houses in the village, helping others fulfill their dreams.
The diverse community created by these international buyers will preserve Mussomeli’s essence, fostering cultural exchange.
Returning to Mussomeli in September, Rubia plans to check on the progress of her properties.
She encourages others to seize this opportunity, even just for a vacation home in Europe. For her, it’s a chance to retire and fulfill a lifelong dream.