Australian Chef's 85p Sicilian Dream Home Turns Into Renovation Nightmare
An Australian chef who purchased a dilapidated property in Italy for the astonishing price of just 85p has been compelled to relinquish his dream home after encountering insurmountable challenges in renovating it within a strict deadline.
The Allure of the 'Case 1 Euro' Scheme in Mussomeli
Danny McCubbin, 58, seized the opportunity presented by Mussomeli's 'Case 1 Euro' initiative, a campaign designed to attract foreign investment to the Sicilian town by offering properties at symbolic prices. Having resided in the United Kingdom for 17 years, McCubbin found the prospect of owning an Italian home at such a minimal cost irresistible and even encouraged others to explore similar opportunities.
The critical condition attached to these bargain purchases was that buyers must complete renovations within three years to secure full ownership rights. This stipulation, while intended to revitalise the local housing stock, ultimately proved to be McCubbin's undoing.
Builder Shortage Derails Renovation Plans
Faced with a widespread shortage of skilled labour in Italy's construction sector, McCubbin – a chef with experience working for Jamie Oliver's Fifteen Foundation – struggled desperately to find builders willing to undertake the necessary refurbishment work. The property, which required significant attention, deteriorated further over time as his search for reliable tradespeople yielded no results.
"It was very difficult to find a builder and over time the house deteriorated," McCubbin revealed in an interview with iNews. "By the time I did find a building company, it was double the cost to renovate it. I decided it was not worth it for me anymore."
With the renovation deadline looming and no viable solution in sight, McCubbin made the difficult decision to sell the property back to an estate agency, receiving only his original payment in return. The experience was particularly disappointing given how much he had come to appreciate the tranquil lifestyle in Mussomeli, a picturesque town with approximately 11,000 residents.
Second Chance with a More Manageable Property
Undeterred by his initial setback, McCubbin demonstrated remarkable resilience by purchasing another bargain property in the same region for £6,700 (approximately €8,000). This second home required substantially less renovation work, making it a more feasible project.
Fortunately, he managed to secure two construction workers for a week of labour, with the minor repairs costing him £4,200 (around €5,000). This successful renovation has allowed him to finally move into the property and establish roots in the community he has grown to love.
Community Kitchen Initiative Born from Adversity
McCubbin's commitment to Mussomeli extends beyond property ownership. He has since launched The Good Kitchen, a community initiative dedicated to preparing and distributing free meals to vulnerable local families. His motivation for relocating to Italy was multifaceted, combining personal aspiration with practical considerations.
"I moved here at the end of December 2020, because I wanted to live in Italy when Brexit happened," McCubbin explained. "I've always wanted to live in Sicily, my parents loved the countryside. So I asked myself what was missing in Mussomeli and I came up with the idea of The Good Kitchen."
Local Authorities Address Labour Shortage Concerns
The builder shortage that thwarted McCubbin's initial plans has prompted local officials to take action. Mussomeli's deputy mayor has acknowledged the burden placed on property owners who desperately require tradespeople for renovation projects and is working to alleviate these challenges.
Mayor Toti Nigrelli has pledged to tackle the labour shortage more comprehensively to support others hoping to capitalise on discounted property opportunities. "Local enterprises, which are busy with renovations until 2024, are forced to turn down new contracts," Nigrelli stated. "But soon there will be an influx of new builders from abroad to help out."
McCubbin's experience serves as both a cautionary tale about the hidden challenges of ultra-cheap property schemes and an inspiring story of perseverance, community spirit, and finding alternative paths to achieving one's dreams in a foreign land.
