Across Europe, interest in €1 homes and rural revival schemes continues to grow. These initiatives, which offer symbolic property prices or generous grants, promise a chance to own a slice of countryside life for less than the cost of a meal out.
While Italy remains the best-known example, similar rural revival incentives are emerging elsewhere in Europe and beyond. In 2025, more towns, regions and even national governments are exploring creative ways to repopulate fading rural areas.
In this guide, we’ll explain how €1 home schemes work, what they really cost, where to find similar offers overseas and how to approach these opportunities wisely if you’re considering buying a property abroad this way.
€1 home schemes in Italy
What €1 schemes are
Italy pioneered the €1 home model more than a decade ago. The idea is simple: local councils sell abandoned or dilapidated houses for a symbolic price of €1 to attract new residents and revive depopulated towns.
Depopulation has long affected Italy’s inland and southern regions, where younger generations moved to cities for work. As homes fell empty, municipalities faced crumbling infrastructure and shrinking tax bases.
Some recent examples include Sambuca di Sicilia, which gained global attention for its €1 property auctions and, following strong interest, launched a second round of sales with higher deposits to attract more serious buyers. Similarly, in 2024, Calatafimi Segesta – another Sicilian town – introduced a comparable scheme focused on sustainable restoration, and officials have since reported renewed local business activity as newcomers begin to settle in.
It’s key to remember that the €1 price tag is largely symbolic. Buyers take on full responsibility for renovation and legal costs, which form the real investment. Yet for many, the chance to restore a stone house in Sicily or Sardinia remains a powerful draw.
What’s really involved when buying a €1 home
While the purchase price might be €1, renovation is mandatory and can often be extensive.
Buyers typically must:
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Pay a security deposit of €1,000-€5,000 (refundable on completion).
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Commit to a full renovation within a set timeframe (usually 1-3 years).
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Present an approved building plan and obtain all permits.
Renovation costs vary widely but generally range between €20,000 and €100,000, depending on the property’s size and condition.
Bureaucracy is another important factor to consider, and can be a challenging one. Municipalities require proof of financial capacity, insurance and compliance with Italy’s strict building regulations. Energy performance certificates, seismic checks and heritage rules may all apply, and it’s important to research these before purchasing a €1 home.
Other incentive schemes in Italy
Italy’s approach to rural revival extends beyond €1 homes. Several towns now offer cash grants or tax incentives to attract residents. For instance, regions such as Trentino-Alto Adige and Molise have introduced subsidies for families relocating or starting small businesses.
Nationally, Italy’s Superbonus programme – originally covering up to 110% of renovation costs for energy-efficient upgrades – has been revised in 2025 to reduce public spending. However, some local councils still offer scaled-down versions supporting insulation or renewable energy projects.
In many areas, these grants can complement or even replace €1 home schemes, appealing to buyers seeking less risky, partially renovated properties.
Eligibility and requirements
€1 homes in Italy are open to both domestic and international buyers, but rules vary by municipality.
EU citizens usually face straightforward conditions, while non-EU buyers may encounter extra taxes, stricter residency criteria or longer approval processes. However, all buyers must be able to demonstrate the financial means to complete renovations and pay local taxes.
It’s also essential to check property ownership records carefully, as some titles include shared walls or complex inheritance histories.
In short, while you can buy a €1 property in Italy in 2025, doing so successfully requires preparation, legal advice, finances and patience.
Rural revival and incentive schemes elsewhere
Italy may have started the trend, but rural revival incentives across Europe are multiplying. Governments are recognising the need to balance urbanisation with countryside renewal, and affordable housing is at the heart of this effort.
Croatia – Symbolic sales and renovation grants
Croatia’s small town of Legrad, near the Hungarian border, became famous for selling homes for just 13 cents, with buyers committed to renovating and living in the property for at least 15 years.
In 2024, Legrad sold several properties to buyers from Croatia and neighbouring countries, who received up to €3,500 in municipal renovation grants.
Other Croatian towns are following suit, pursuing families and young professionals willing to relocate.
Spain – Grants for rural relocation
Spain’s population decline in rural areas has prompted regional governments to introduce new housing subsidies.
In 2025, Castilla y León and Galicia are offering grants for young buyers under 35 who purchase or renovate homes in small villages. Amounts vary but can reach €10,000-€15,000 depending on the project.
In 2023, the Galician town of Mondoñedo awarded €12,000 in subsidies to a young couple renovating a village property.
While not identical to €1 property schemes, Spain’s approach aligns with the same goal – keeping small communities alive.
France – €1 homes and rural tax incentives
France has experimented with €1 homes in towns like Ambert, in central France, where vacant buildings are sold to buyers willing to renovate.
In 2022, Ambert sold three derelict properties for €1 each, with buyers committing to restoration within two years.
Additionally, France’s Fonds de Revitalisation Rurale (FRR) provides tax relief and grants for rural property development, supporting small businesses as well as residential projects.
Portugal – Affordable land and rural development
Portugal’s approach focuses on land availability rather than symbolic pricing. Through regional programmes in Alentejo and Centro, authorities encourage people to buy and reclassify rural land for residential use.
In 2024, the town of Castelo de Vide launched a programme providing plots from €5,000, alongside renovation subsidies for eco-friendly homes.
Combined with Portugal’s relatively low cost of living, these initiatives attract both locals and foreign residents seeking rural retreats.
Beyond Europe – Alternative models
Other parts of the world are adopting similar ideas, though with different mechanisms.
United States
In the US, the USDA Housing Preservation Grant provides funding for non-profits to help low-income homeowners repair rural properties. Some towns and cities also offer relocation incentives. Tulsa, Oklahoma and Belleville, Kansas offer up to $10,000 and $35,000, respectively, although you’ll typically already need a US work visa to be eligible.
Canada
Certain provinces in Canada run rural migration incentives, offering tax breaks and grants for individuals willing to settle in underpopulated regions.
Japan
Facing rapid depopulation in rural areas, Japan operates local ‘akiya bank’ programmes that list abandoned homes – some offered at little or no cost – on the condition that buyers renovate and live in them.
These examples show that the concept of cheap property abroad extends far beyond Europe, though the rules and rewards can vary widely.
Are €1 homes and other schemes worth it?
For many, the idea of buying a €1 home sounds irresistible. But like any investment, it has both advantages and drawbacks.
Pros:
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Exceptionally low entry cost.
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Opportunity to create a personalised home.
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Contribution to community regeneration.
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Potential for long-term property appreciation.
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Lifestyle change – slower pace, scenic surroundings.
Cons:
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High renovation and compliance costs.
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Complex legal and administrative processes.
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Remote locations with limited services.
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Potentially difficult resale potential.
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Cultural and language barriers.
In practice, these schemes suit buyers with flexible timelines, adequate renovation budgets and a desire for a hands-on project.
They are less suitable for those seeking immediate occupancy or straightforward investment returns. A successful experience usually depends on careful planning and realistic expectations.
Practical advice for would-be buyers
If you’re tempted to buy a cheap property in Europe or a similar initiative, preparation is key. Here’s a checklist to guide your approach:
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Research the municipality thoroughly. Each town sets its own rules – check eligibility, renovation deadlines and financial requirements.
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Budget realistically. Factor in renovation, permits, professional fees and taxes. Expect total spending far above the symbolic purchase price.
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Visit before committing. Inspect the area, meet local officials and gauge accessibility and amenities before committing to a purchase.
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Seek professional support. Hire an independent lawyer, translator and surveyor familiar with local property law.
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Check infrastructure. Confirm water, electricity and road access before purchasing.
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Understand long-term obligations. Some contracts require permanent residency or specific business use, and it’s important to understand this before you buy.
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Plan for currency transfers. When paying deposits or renovation costs, using a specialist currency provider such as Currencies Direct can help you get the best exchange rates, avoid bank fees and manage currency volatility.
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Keep all documents in order. Maintain records of all permits, payments and communications.
With clear information and sound financial planning, buying property abroad can be rewarding, even when the purchase price is symbolic.
More information about buying property abroad
If you want more helpful guides about buying property overseas, whether about locations, costs or legal considerations, we have plenty of overseas property articles on our blog.
Meanwhile, feel free to get in touch with our team if you want to know more about transferring money abroad for a property purchase. We offer excellent exchange rates, a range of specialist services, and personalised support to help you get the most from your money transfers.
