Unusual reason an Italian village offers $1 homes to American citizens

A fresh initiative is inviting US citizens, more than any other group, to purchase property in an Italian village.

For many individuals working desk jobs, the thought of abandoning the dreariness of rain and smog for the warmth of a European country, where wine and simple living become a daily occurrence, is quite appealing.

Fortunately, one Italian village is especially urging American residents to “embrace a more balanced lifestyle” with an enticing offer.

The village of Ollolai, situated in the heart of Barbagia, in the Nuoro province of Sardinia, Italy, is offering properties, as described on the scheme’s website: “Nestled in pristine nature, surrounded by incredible cuisine, and immersed in a community with ancient traditions, in the rare Earth’s Blue Zone, Ollolai is the perfect destination to reconnect, recharge, and embrace a new way of life.

“Discover an array of properties from the originators of the €1 House global phenomenon. Whether you’re searching for a €1 house to renovate or a move-in-ready home, we’ll guide you through every step of your journey, from arranging viewings to finding contractors and navigating the necessary bureaucracy.”

The cost of living in this Sardinian village is astonishingly low, with prices starting from $1, up to $100,000, and some properties even offered for free.

There are three accommodation categories available: free temporary homes for remote workers, $1 homes needing renovation investment, and move-in-ready homes priced up to $100,000.

So, why is this initiative specifically targeting US citizens with such an attractive offer?

The site indicates its appeal to those “worn out by global politics,” a sentiment many can relate to.

Specifically, the initiative is directed at Americans, as Ollolai’s mayor Francesco Columbu explained to CNN.

He stated, “We just really want, and will focus on, Americans above all. We can’t, of course, ban people from other countries to apply, but Americans will have a fast-track procedure.”

The website and offer were introduced soon after Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 Presidential Election, hinting at the timing’s significance.

Columbu further explained, “We have specifically created this website now to meet US post-elections relocation needs. The first edition of our digital nomad scheme which launched last year was already solely for Americans.”

This initiative also aims to benefit the village itself.

With Ollolai’s population dwindling to below 1,150, the village is striving to rejuvenate its community.

Columbu noted, “We are betting on [US citizens] to help us revive the village, they are our winning card.”

However, those interested in this “stunning paradise” should act swiftly. Although the village is still “half empty,” there are only “about 100 unoccupied cheap homes potentially on sale, ready to move in,” and there’s been significant interest with “38,000” inquiries already.