George’s (new) life starts again from Mussomeli

The initiative of houses for one euro in Sicily is attracting more and more buyers from all over the world. The prospect of a quiet life, among uncontaminated nature and the alleys of small villages, seems to fascinate those who are tired of the frenetic pace of big cities.

This initiative, in fact, was created precisely to counteract the abandonment of small inhabited centers which have recorded a huge drop in population in recent years. Many original inhabitants of Sicilian villages (and the rest of Italy) prefer to seize the opportunities present in large cities, leaving their place of origin.

Something, however, is changing. The charm of the island and the idea of ​​reconsidering one’s priorities in favor of psycho-physical well-being are among the main reasons that contributed to the development of the “one-euro houses” initiative.

We have already told the story of Jeffrey Pfefferle and his partner, who fulfilled their dream of buying a house in Mussomeli after years of waiting. Even the famous Disney actress Emanuelle Bains chose to move to Sicily and reconnect with its roots.

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And, recently, too the British entrepreneur George Laing he joined the list of visitors who chose to stay. Inspired by the BBC program “Amanda and Alan’s Italian Job,” the 31-year-old turned his dream of owning a home into a reality.

For some time, in fact, George had felt the need to purchase a property and obtain certainties for the future. This dream, however, is not possible in London due to high costs.

Thus, thanks to the “one euro houses” initiative and some web research, the British entrepreneur discovered a unique opportunity Mussomeli.

“I wanted to own a property without a mortgage – he tells the Daily Mail – learn new skills by renovating it and enjoy the sun and lifestyle on a beautiful island.”

«When I discovered that its house number was 11 – he adds – my lucky number, I felt predestined, it immediately seemed like a little corner of paradise. The moment I arrived on the cobblestone street, dappled with sunlight, I was already enchanted, and when I finally crossed the threshold of number 11, I decided that whatever I found inside I would not be discouraged.”

The purchase of “houses for one euro”, in fact, involves some agreements that the buyer must respect and includes numerous additional expenses. The quaint three story cottage located in the heart of Mussomeli, bought by the young British man, it requires intense renovation; until recently it didn’t even have electricity or running water.

Every month, George Laing leaves East Sussex to return to Mussomeli and continue his renovations of his dream house. Every time the entrepreneur lands in Sicily he is struck by the beauty of the place and the warmth of the inhabitants, who always welcome him with affection.

The thirty-one year old told the Daily Mail that he has found hope again and is happy, now that he owns a house in a serene setting like that of Mussomeli.

«On my left there is a view of mountains – explains George – on my right a beautiful church. A five minute walk away, however, is the lively center of the town, where I can buy an excellent cappuccino for 1.50 euros and an even better pizza for five pounds.”

Nowadays the need to live in a less prohibitive economic context is pushing more and more people to look for an alternative, to find serenity and rediscover the pleasure of a simple walk in the open air. It is not surprising, then, that Sicily is among the favorite destinations for these important choices.

With its villages nestled in nature, the food, the culture and the warmth of the inhabitants, our island offers the possibility of changing the course of one’s life.