An American purchased a $1 home in Italy and invested $35,000 in renovations, finding greater happiness in the process.

An American bought a rundown home in Italy for $1, then spent $35,000 renovating it. The transformation brought immense joy, highlighting the rewarding experience of investing in a property and lifestyle abroad.

Upon learning about a town in Italy offering abandoned homes for 1 euro each, Rubia Daniels from Berkeley, Calif., felt compelled to investigate. In 2019, she traveled to Mussomeli, Sicily, and seized the opportunity, purchasing three dilapidated properties at a steal. With her construction expertise, Daniels plans to transform them into a vacation home, restaurant, and wellness center, investing approximately $35,000 into her initial project.

Even amidst the challenges of renovating a home abroad during the pandemic, Daniels asserts that the lifestyle in Mussomeli has significantly enhanced her happiness.

Making friends in Sicily

Daniels was drawn to Mussomeli largely due to the warm reception she received during her visit. The real estate agent, Nathalie Milazzo, went above and beyond, showing her around town and fostering a sense of belonging. In the close-knit community of around 9,900 residents, Daniels quickly formed strong friendships, finding it easier to connect than in California. She has developed a deep bond with local Katerina Montagnino, even becoming godmother to her son, Leo, after hosting the Montagnino family in California.

While Daniels appreciates the friendliness of her California neighbors, she notes a difference in the pace of life. In California, the hustle between work and home leaves little time for socializing, unlike the more leisurely and social atmosphere she's found in Mussomeli.

Fewer money problems and less stress overall

Sicilians have a markedly different approach to leisure compared to Americans. They embrace a daily break from noon to 4 p.m. for lunch and a nap, followed by late family dinners lasting until midnight. Traveling around Italy and Europe is both accessible and affordable, with low costs for meals and transportation. Mussomeli's residents benefit from low living expenses, in stark contrast to the high costs in places like the Bay Area, where Daniels resides. She observes a link between high living expenses and stress, leading to overwork and less time for relationships and hobbies. Living in Mussomeli brings Daniels greater happiness compared to her life in the US.

“ This quote likely reflects someone's struggle with adjusting to the eating habits in Sicily, particularly the high consumption of carbohydrates. It suggests that managing or adapting to this dietary aspect is the primary challenge they face in that environment.”

Each time I visit, I witness how reduced financial pressure, increased social engagement, and regular physical activity (with many locals walking in the hilly terrain) contribute to improved health outcomes, despite the presence of some enduring indulgences.

"Here, people indulge in a lot of alcohol, nicotine, and carbs, yet they tend to live longer," Daniels observes. "I attribute this to the remarkably low stress levels and the active community, which seem to promote longevity."

"In Sicily, my main challenge is the abundance of carbs," Daniels jests. "Apart from that, life is truly wonderful."

Source: cnbc