How to buy a 1-euro house in Italy: US guide

Buying a 1-euro house is an intriguing prospect for US citizens who want to move to Italy without breaking the bank. Many local towns are enrolled in the program, but is it too good to be true?

We take a look at everything you need to know about 1-euro houses, including pros, cons, and how to buy a 1-euro house in Italy.

We'll also introduce the Wise account, which allows you to send, spend, and receive your money across the globe in over 40 currencies – all at the fair mid-market rate.

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What is a 1-euro house in Italy?

The 1-euro house program is just what it sounds like — locals and foreigners can purchase a property in Italy for the symbolic low price of 1 euro.

However, the program isn’t just about finding cheap real estate abroad. It aims to revitalize abandoned houses and boost the local economy of rural regions, particularly small towns at risk of depopulation.

Although you can purchase a beautiful historic villa for a low price, these properties need a lot of work. You’ll likely need to commit to serious renovations.¹

The program first started in Sicily in 2008. Since then, over 70 local towns have enrolled in the scheme, putting beautiful but dilapidated buildings on the market for just 1 euro.²

To buy a house for 1 euro, you’ll need to contact your local council in Italy. You may also need to provide an official declaration of interest and commitment to purchase and renovate your property.¹

Each local town will set its own obligations for buyers, so it’s important to look into any conditions before going ahead with your purchase.²

Can I buy a 1-euro house in Italy as a foreigner?

Anyone can take advantage of Italy’s 1-euro program, including US citizens. The program is particularly intriguing for foreigners who want to enjoy a new pace of life in small-town Italy.²

You can become part of a local Mediterranean community — and help to restore it to its former glory. Many Americans use the program to invest in the local economy, creating jobs and encouraging communities to thrive again.

If you want to buy a 1-euro house in Italy as a foreigner, you’ll first need to do your research. You’ll need to work with local professionals to help you navigate Italy’s complex bureaucratic processes. This includes getting the right building permits.

Italy’s planning permission rules can be restrictive, particularly when it comes to historic properties. For example, Italy’s Code of Cultural Heritage and Landscape dictates how you can alter historically or artistically important buildings.³

If you intend on staying in your home long-term, you’ll also need to get a residence permit, as purchasing property doesn’t automatically guarantee you Italian residency.²

Pros and cons of 1-euro houses

Although buying a house for 1 euro is an exciting and unusual investment opportunity, there are some key things to consider.

You’ll need to think about how much it costs to renovate your new Italian home. Many 1-euro properties also come with strict planning permission requirements. Your exact obligations will depend on the location of your home.

Let’s take a closer look at some pros and cons of 1-euro houses in Italy. How can you make the most of Italy’s affordable property program?

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Where can I buy homes for 1 euro in Italy?

If you want to buy a 1-euro house in Italy, you can choose from a range of eligible locations. Italian towns opt into the scheme, so you’ll need to contact your desired local council to get started with your purchase.

Over 70 towns in Italy have agreed to sell old or derelict houses for 1 euro, including local communities in northern Italy, southern Italy, Sicily, and Sardinia.²

Here are some potential 1-euro locations in Italy, including small towns in a range of attractive Italian regions.

How to buy a 1-euro house in Italy

So, how can you buy a 1-euro house in Italy? Here’s a step-by-step guide to purchasing your Italian home:

Step 1. Select your 1-euro house and apply via the local town council. You may need to speak with the council to determine which houses are part of the program — and some properties will have an auction purchase process.

Step 2. Complete the notarial deed for your property. This is an important step in the Italian house-buying process, so you may want to consult a lawyer for support.

Step 3. Pay your security deposit. This may be as much as 10,000 EUR, and you may need to meet certain requirements to receive your deposit back.

Step 4. You’ll typically need to submit your renovation plan to the council within 12 months. Some councils may prefer local tourist projects or new families over corporate foreign investors.

Step 5. Finally, you’ll need to complete your renovation within 2 to 3 years, or the deadline set by your town.²

You’ll need a few key documents for your Italian house purchase. This includes a proposal with your desired renovations. You’ll need to set out exactly how you intend to change the building while still preserving its historical roots.

You may also need to provide an official declaration of commitment to sign the public deed of transfer of the property. You’ll need to assume responsibility for all expenses.

To buy a house in Italy as a foreigner, you’ll also need to get an Italian tax code. Known as a codice fiscale, this will ensure you pay the correct taxes for your property purchase and any expenses going forward.⁴

Italy’s 1-euro house program is a lucrative opportunity for US buyers and investors. You can purchase a beautiful and historic Italian property for a symbolic price, but you’ll need to make certain commitments.

Your home may need extensive renovations. You’ll also need to show how you can contribute to local or declining community populations. This may be a bigger and more expensive project than you first expected.

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Sources

1. Casa Riviera - 1 Euro houses in Italy: Still possible in 2025?
2. Impatria - 1 Euro Houses in Italy: Complete 2025 Guide for Foreigners
3. Ihomerank - Home Renovation in Italy: Planning, Budgeting, and Execution
4. Idealista - Buying a 1 euro house in Italy as a foreigner: documents required