Biccari is a town in the beautiful Puglia region in south east Italy, it now has a population less than 2,000. Unbelievably, the population once topped 5,000 but has been in decline for decades as residents have left to pursue employment in other regions, cities and countries.

Surrounded by the Daunia mountains the town has views of the Adriatic sea to the east and is nestled between forests, lakes and olive groves.

Biccari, like many other southern Italian towns has plenty of derelict smaller properties that are in need of complete renovation. It also has a number of run-down, but habitable houses.

Mayor Gianfilippo Mignogna has launched an innovative solution to reverse the declining population trend. He is selling off the uninhabitable properties for €1 with a €3,000 deposit required, that is returned once the dwelling has been fully renovated. The work needs to be completed within a three year period. Also the “turn-key” properties that can be lived in straight away are also being offered for sale at very low prices. These houses are priced from €13,000 to €15,000.

We really like the idea of €1 houses for renovation but also small habitable houses for the price of a used car.