The Hidden Italian Village Near Rome Where Homes Cost Only £25K

Over the decades, numerous Britons deprived of sunlight have escaped overseas for Italy 'in more temperate regions, purchasing real estate in areas ranging from Tuscany to Sicily for as little as a euro.

Nevertheless, since the €1 (85p) scheme grows in popularity and more foreigners buy homes, prime locations could be at risk of attracting too much interest and too many crowds. The houses also often require major renovation work that costs huge sums.

Real estate firms suggest that international purchasers consider villages not included in this scheme as an alternative option. €1 homes scheme , despite still providing deals.

"Prospective buyers should consider exploring lesser-known areas, well away from the typical tourist hotspots but within reach of major urban centers, where they can still get excellent value for their money," said Vincenzo de Tommaso, who works in public relations at Idealista.it, a multilingual real estate site. The i Paper .

Many Italians wouldn't consider looking for houses in those areas, but they tend to attract outsiders who find them quite appealing. Investing here is seen as safer compared to buying those one-euro homes, where the extent of renovations needed can be unpredictable and dealing with all the paperwork involved can be overwhelming.

A hidden-away hamlet located 15 miles away Rome Even among many Romans, Capena remains an enigma. Here, you can find snug ready-to-move-in apartments priced from just €30,000 (£25,176) and countryside villas beginning at €120,000 (£100,706).

Established by native Italic peoples who were eventually conquered by the ancient Romans, Capena now consists of a group of pastel-colored houses linked by narrow lanes and encircled by olive orchards and areas grazed by sheep. Here, international vacationers are few and far between, not to mention expatriates.

De Tommaso suggests that inexpensive real estate in Capena and similar lesser-known spots across Italy aren’t adequately publicized since locals believe these areas lack promise until they become part of attractive residential projects initiated by municipal governments, such as those offering houses for just €1.

The historical part of Capena is vehicle-free, featuring a butchery, shops, and cafes surrounding a palace and a historic fountain. Buses run into central Rome every day from Capena, though the closest railway station is approximately four miles distant.

Capena hosts various festivities including grape harvesting and folkloric activities. In honor of St. Luke, their patron saint, residents participate in processions where they enjoy traditionally made sweet rolls filled with remnants from the celebrations. Vendemmia (Wine harvest). Another charming festival occurs on Saint Anthony’s Day, where he serves as the patron saint of animals. On this occasion, shepherds and farmers bring their horses, donkeys, dogs, and cats to have them blessed during the village fair.

At the center of the historic area, close to the rocky fortress, a one-room apartment , featuring a loft-style bed, an expansive balcony offering scenic views, and exposed wood-beam ceilings, is available for €32,000 (£26,859). The property spans 65 square metres. old stone building With three bedrooms, a balcony, and an expansive rooftop terrace, this property is listed for €38,000 (£31,890) on the market.

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De Tommaso recommends potential buyers visit the location personally. He states it’s crucial "to get a sense of the area and prevent purchasing without seeing it firsthand."

In Capena, the top bargains are for compact apartments located within the historical center. Other excellent deals include a three-bedroom space with an area of 40 square meters. studio With a balcony available for €40,000 (£33,568); and a two-bedroom apartment Of 65 square meters featuring a floor-to-ceiling statement fireplace priced at €49,000 (£41,121).

Some properties require a more-than-cosmetic makeover. For €25,000 (£20,980), a two-bedroom independent house in the historical district of over 60 square metres requires a partial bathroom fix.

In the meantime, right outside the village, properties like farms and mansions are up for grabs, featuring a two-bedroom setup spanning 50 square metres. villa finish off with a 200-square-metre plot of land and a garage for €104,000 (£87,651).