Tired of cold English winters, Sally Boole and her husband sought the Sicilian sun, dreaming of transforming a 1-euro house into their winter retreat.

The Booles, from Derbyshire, learned about Mussomeli's symbolic house sale program from Sally's parents. Soon, they were packing for the ancient town, where they quickly found a deserted house in the old quarter.

Martin (front) renovating their 1-euro house in Italy. Photo: *DM*

The couple had visited Sicily before and always dreamed of owning a home there. "When we heard about the 1-euro houses, we thought, why not?" said 54-year-old Sally.

They purchased the three-story house in July 2024. Since then, they've been frequent visitors, renovating it themselves, largely thanks to Sally's husband's plumbing skills. They expect to complete the project in two years, creating two en-suite bedrooms, an open-plan living room, and a modern kitchen.

While the purchase price was just 1 euro, the actual cost of owning and renovating the house is closer to 40,000 euros. "We don't regret it, it's a worthwhile gamble," Sally said.

Mussomeli is one of dozens of Italian towns using the *Case a 1 Euro* program to revitalize declining neighborhoods affected by an aging population and youth migration. Since 2017, the program has attracted hundreds of foreigners seeking a fresh start with a low investment.

However, turning these abandoned houses into homes requires significant investment and comes with conditions. Antonella Zaffuto, a local real estate agent, says most buyers are from the UK, the US, and other English-speaking countries. They aren't looking to relocate permanently but primarily seek refuge from harsh winters.

The Booles' 1-euro house in Italy. Photo: *DM*

Antonella emphasizes that the 1-euro price is symbolic. Legal fees, taxes, and renovations can push the total cost to 60,000 USD. Buyers need to be prepared, or they risk losing their deposit.

Nicky Cook, a British tourist, is another recent buyer. After a breakup, she came to Mussomeli seeking a change and purchased a two-story house for around 15,000 euros. Nicky wanted a fresh start, and Sicily offered the ideal climate, culture, and affordability.

Mussomeli's rules require buyers to submit renovation plans within one year, begin work within two months, and complete it within three years. A 5,000 euro deposit is required, which is forfeited if deadlines aren't met.

Many of the houses are inherited properties, left vacant and dilapidated for years. Still, with scenic views, fresh air, and a safe community, many consider them a bargain compared to UK or US real estate prices.

However, non-EU citizens can only stay for a maximum of 180 days per year, with no more than 90 consecutive days. To reside permanently, they must obtain an EU passport or long-term residency.

Mussomeli, with its abandoned houses lining narrow, stone-paved streets. Photo: *DM*

Local authorities report over 500 one-euro houses sold, injecting over 80 million euros into the town's economy and revitalizing a once-forgotten community.

Mayor Giuseppe Catania emphasizes that the program's benefits extend beyond finances, reshaping the town's identity and bringing it back to life.

For many, the house purchase may initially seem like a great deal, but it's a gamble with conditions. However, many, like the Booles, are happy to play.

Anh Minh (*DM*)