After Donald Trump’s election victory, many disillusioned Americans have started considering the idea of leaving the United States. In response to this growing dissatisfaction, the municipality of Ollolai, a charming village in Sardinia, has extended an invitation to US citizens to take part in its 1 euro house project. This initiative not only aims to combat depopulation but also offers an opportunity for those seeking a quieter, more peaceful life, far from the chaos, pollution and controversial politics of large cities.
What happened after Trump's election victory in 2024?
Following Donald Trump’s election victory, with his inauguration at the White House scheduled for 20th January 2025, a portion of the American public began expressing significant discontent, with some even contemplating leaving the United States. Many supporters of Kamala Harris and other voters disappointed by the tycoon’s victory voiced their desire to emigrate, seeking refuge from the country’s growing political tensions and polarisation.
It was in this context that the municipality of Ollolai, a small Sardinian village, decided to launch an especially enticing offer: "Thinking of leaving the US after Trump’s victory? Then come to Ollolai, where you can even buy houses for 1 euro." The promotional message, published on the local council’s website, quickly became an invitation for anyone looking to start a new life in Europe, in a peaceful place surrounded by nature and far removed from the hustle and bustle of major cities.
Ollolai has launched an initiative with the slogan "It’s time to start building your European escape in the stunning paradise of Sardinia," inviting not just Americans but anyone to move to this corner of the world that promises a healthier and more peaceful way of life. This claim is backed by the fact that Ollolai is part of a Blue Zone – regions where life expectancy is significantly higher than the global average, as evidenced by its high concentration of centenarians.
For several years, Ollolai has been tackling depopulation by offering houses in need of renovation for just 1 euro to those willing to relocate and contribute to revitalising the area. Thanks to the publicity generated by this initiative, the municipal website received thousands of views and hundreds of enquiries from potential buyers within hours, including many Americans keen to make a life-changing move.
The initiative, spearheaded by Mayor Francesco Columbu, represents a creative response to a contemporary social phenomenon. Whereas, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Italians emigrated to America in search of better opportunities, over a century later, the roles may have reversed: Americans are now ready to move to Europe in search of a new sense of balance.
How does the 1 euro house project work in Italy?
In Ollolai, several houses are available for just 1 euro, but how exactly does this project work? In simple terms, the initiative allows you to purchase a property in need of renovation for the symbolic price of euro.
How to buy a 1 euro house in Ollolai
The process is straightforward: interested individuals must express their interest directly to the local council and commit not only to buying the property but also to renovating it.
However, those joining the project should be aware of the following requirements:
- Renovation commitment: The property must be renovated and restored within one year of purchase, with an investment of approximately €20,000–€25,000.
- Legal fees: Buyers are responsible for covering notarial costs.
- Start of works: Renovation work must begin within a maximum of two months after obtaining the necessary permits.
- Security deposit: A €5,000 bond must be provided as a guarantee to the council.
Foreign citizens can also participate, provided they have an Italian tax code (codice fiscale), a mandatory document for paying taxes.
1 euro houses in Ollolai: requirements
To purchase one of the €1 houses available in Ollolai, no specific requirements are needed. The key is to adhere to the renovation terms and cover the notarial costs.
Even those who wish to work remotely from Ollolai can take part in the initiative by simply filling out the online form on the dedicated website. The information required includes:
- Full name;
- A link to your LinkedIn profile or a professional profile;
- Country of origin;
- Email address;
- Proposed start date of residence;
- Your motivation for joining the initiative.
Buying a 1 euro house in Ollolai and beyond
If you’re living in America and feel a strong urge to escape after Trump’s election victory, or if you’re in a bustling Italian or European city looking to relocate to a quieter place, buying one of the 1 euro houses in Ollolai might be the perfect solution. In addition to Ollolai, several other Sardinian towns joined the 1 euro house project in 2024. Among these picturesque villages is Nulvi, located in the province of Sassari.
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