In 2025, 1 euro houses in Italy continue to attract the attention of many people from around the world. This programme, created to combat the depopulation of small villages and bring abandoned historic town centres back to life, also extends to the territories of Sardinia, enriching the island’s property market with a range of truly enticing offers.
1 euro houses in Sardinia in 2025 represent one of the most interesting opportunities for those looking for a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re drawn to Sardinia’s coast with its spectacular beaches and crystal-clear sea, or you prefer the island’s hilly interior, 1 euro homes in Sardinia offer a variety of solutions, capable of meeting all kinds of needs.
How the 1 euro house programme works
The 1 euro house scheme in Italy, which includes the 1 euro homes for sale in Sardinia in 2025, is an initiative aimed at repopulating small Italian towns at risk of depopulation by offering dated properties in need of renovation for the symbolic price of just 1 euro.
To participate, buyers must contact the relevant local council directly and commit not only to purchasing the property but also to renovating it. Additionally, there are other costs to bear, such as notary fees and in most cases a €5,000 surety bond as a guarantee for the council.
Buyers are required to begin renovation work usually within two months of receiving the necessary permits, and the work must be completed within a year, with a minimum investment of approximately €20,000-25,000. Foreign nationals can also participate in the project, but only if they have an Italian tax code.
The initiative also offers the possibility of benefiting from various bonuses for building and energy renovations, making the purchase particularly advantageous. This project is widespread throughout Italy, from mountain villages to coastal towns, with the goal of breathing new life into local communities.
Where are the 1 euro houses in Sardinia in 2025?
Sardinia, with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and mountainous landscapes, is one of the Mediterranean’s gems. The island is renowned for its picturesque villages, rich history, and vibrant culture, attracting visitors from around the world each year.
In 2025, the 1 euro house project is active in the municipality of Nulvi located in the province of Sassari, and in Ollolai in the province of Nuoro. Both charming villages offer the opportunity to purchase properties at a symbolic price, contributing to the recovery and repopulation of one of the most authentic areas of the island.
Nulvi
Nulvi, located in the province of Sassari in northern Sardinia, is a charming town nestled in the Anglona region, an area known for its rolling hills and striking landscapes.
Mayor Antonello Cubaiu launched the 1 euro house initiative in 2016 to counteract the depopulation of the historic centre, which at the time was suffering from a significant decline in population. This proposal, which had already gained traction with the Salemi project in Sicily, attracted considerable interest, as demonstrated by the thousands of enquiries received. Despite bureaucratic challenges, the project remains active and still offers numerous 1 euro houses ready for renovation.
Geographically, Nulvi is about 20 kilometres from the Tyrrhenian Sea. The nearest coastal towns are Castelsardo and Marina di Sorso, which are accessible by car in about 30-45 minutes. This location allows residents to enjoy the tranquillity of Sardinia’s inland areas while having easy access to the island’s stunning beaches whenever they wish.
The combination of rural life and proximity to the sea makes Nulvi an appealing choice for anyone looking for a balance between the peacefulness of a hilly environment and the beauty of the coast.
Ollolai
First launched in 2018 to combat depopulation, the 1 euro houses project in Ollolai offers abandoned homes in the historic centre for just one euro—on the condition that buyers commit to renovating the properties within three years. Now, the initiative is gaining renewed international attention, particularly from Americans seeking a slower-paced lifestyle or simply a fresh start abroad.
Interest surged after the 2024 U.S. presidential election, with some Americans—especially those disillusioned by Donald Trump's return to power—looking to Europe for a new beginning. Ollolai’s offer has resonated with this group, offering not just affordable property, but an opportunity to relocate to a quieter, community-focused environment far from political tension.
Ollolai, with its traditional charm, mountain views, and strong sense of community, offers more than just a cheap house—it’s an invitation to embrace a different way of life. The town is keen to attract newcomers who are ready to invest time and energy into restoring its character-filled but crumbling homes. Some participants have even had their experience documented as part of a reality show called The Italian Dream, highlighting the transformation of the properties and the lives of those involved.
The local council is actively encouraging applications from abroad and is particularly open to interest from creatives, remote workers, and families who can contribute to revitalising the town. While the homes require significant renovation, Ollolai offers government support, guidance, and a welcoming local atmosphere that makes the challenge worthwhile. It’s not just a property purchase—it’s a lifestyle change in one of Italy’s most culturally rich regions.
Where to buy other 1 euro houses in Italy
In 2025, beyond Sardinia, the 1 euro house initiative has expanded to many Italian villages, widening its reach across the entire country, from the north to the south.
From Sicily, with its Mediterranean landscapes and historic towns, to Calabria, known for its unspoiled beaches, and all the way to Molise and Tuscany, regions characterised by their unique natural beauty and rich historical and artistic heritage, many municipalities have decided to join the project.
Whether it’s 1 euro houses in Italy near the sea or properties nestled in mountainous nature, the available options are numerous and cater to a wide variety of tastes and lifestyles.
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