Buy a a one euro house in Italy: not a fairy tale, but a point-by-point reality
Buying a a one euro house in Italy is a phrase that has been making headlines for several years. But by the end of 2025, most high-profile programs are closed or severely restricted. Nevertheless, such proposals still exist in some Italian communes, but with important caveats.
Below is only verified data, without simplifications and promises of “1 € villas”.
Where else can I buy a house for euros in Italy in 2025-2026
– In the municipality of Sambuca di Sicilia (Sicily), the Case a 1€ program is maintained, but only for objects in the historical center of Zona Saracena.
– In Charode (Campaign) — houses for € 1 with a commitment to invest at least € 20,000 in repairs over 3 years.
– In Macerata Campania (Marche) – houses for a nominal fee, subject to registration of residency and residence for at least 5 years.
– In Borgia (Calabria) — 70 objects for 1 €, but it is required to submit a renovation project within 6 months after purchase.
Important: None of the programs apply to new or ready-to-move-in homes.
All facilities require major repairs, and some require complete reconstruction.
→ Help with checking objects — Italiatut
What is hidden behind the price of 1 euro
– The cost of notarization starts from 1,200 €, including taxes and state duties.
– A mandatory deposit for repairs is from 15,000 €, deposited into an escrow account before handing over the keys.
– The annual IMU tax is calculated from the cadastral value, which is recalculated after repairs.
– There are strict restrictions in historical areas: you cannot change the facade, increase the area, or add modern materials without permission.
Many buyers do not take into account that after repairs, the cadastral value may increase 5-10 times, and the IMU too. In 2025, there were cases in Sicily when the tax after reconstruction exceeded 800 €/year for a house of 60 m2.
How is the deal going in 2025
1. The application is submitted only through the official website of the commune, with a motivation letter in Italian.
2. Selection is competitive: priority is given to projects with social or cultural benefits (for example, the opening of a guest house or workshop).
3. Signing of the compromise is 30-45 days after the approval of the application.
4. Key transfer — only after making a deposit for repairs and signing a deadline commitment.
Please note: most communes do not work with non-residents without an Italian representative.
You will not be able to complete the application process without a local lawyer or agent.
→ Turnkey transaction support — Italiatut
How to avoid the most common mistakes
1. Do not believe ads like “a house for 1 € without conditions” — this is fraud or outdated information.
2. Do not buy an object without checking the vincolo paesaggistico and vincolo storico — redevelopment is prohibited in security areas.
3. Do not ignore visura ipotecaria — the mortgage or court judgment debt remains on the property even after the sale.
4. Don’t skimp on energy audits — starting in 2025, a minimum of Class E is required for housing registration.
For those who want to see Italy from the inside, the GIDtut team offers author’s tours and individual itineraries.
If you are considering buying a one euro house in Italy, but do not know if this is realistic in your case, write to us on Telegram.
It is possible to buy a house for euros in Italy. But only if you are ready not for romance, but for work.
And we know how to make it predictable, safe, and ultimately inspiring.
