Italy’s one euro houses: How you can buy one

Spoiler alert: The whole project will cost you a little more more than €1

Apr 8, 2025 - 12:00 Updated: Apr 8, 2025 - 17:19
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Italy’s one euro houses: How you can buy one

Imagine owning a charming stone house in a picturesque Italian village—for the cost of a cup of coffee. It might sound like a dream, but in several parts of Italy, it’s very real. The country’s “one-euro house” initiative has drawn global attention, offering international buyers the chance to own homes in rural towns for just €1.

But before you pack your bags and head for the rolling hills of Sicily or the quiet countryside of Abruzzo, there’s more to the story. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about buying one of Italy’s famous one-euro houses.

Why Are Houses Being Sold for One Euro?

The initiative started as a way to combat population decline in small towns across Italy. Many rural communities have seen young people move to larger cities, leaving behind abandoned homes and shrinking economies. To breathe new life into these areas, local governments decided to offer vacant homes for just one euro—on the condition that buyers invest in renovating them.

What’s the Catch?

While the purchase price is symbolic, the real cost lies in renovation. Most of these homes are in poor condition and require significant work to become livable. Buyers are usually required to:

  • Present a renovation plan within a few months of purchase

  • Commit to spending a minimum amount (often €20,000–€50,000)

  • Complete renovations within a fixed period (typically 1–3 years)

  • Pay a deposit (ranging from €2,000–€5,000) as a guarantee

In some towns, you may also be required to register residency or open a local business as part of the deal.

Where Can You Find These Homes?

Several Italian towns have participated in the one-euro house program, including:

  • Sambuca (Sicily) – A popular location that attracted global attention

  • Mussomeli (Sicily) – Known for its historic town center and castle

  • Ollolai (Sardinia) – Featured on international media for its scenic beauty

  • Laurenzana (Basilicata) – Ideal for those seeking an off-the-grid escape

Each town has its own rules and process, so it’s important to research the local requirements and contact the municipality directly or through an official website.

How to Start the Process

  1. Choose your town – Visit the official municipal website or contact the local authority

  2. Review the property listings – Many towns offer photos and details online

  3. Submit an application – Often includes a proposal and basic documents

  4. Pay the deposit – This confirms your commitment

  5. Sign the contract – Typically handled with the help of a notary

Is It Worth It?

If you’re adventurous, financially prepared, and passionate about restoring old homes, the one-euro house could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s not just about owning property—it’s about becoming part of a community and preserving a piece of Italian history.

For those who do it right, it’s not just a house. It’s a story—and a new life in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

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