Italy's one-euro home sales have become popular in recent years, enticing many foreigners with the opportunity to own abandoned properties in depopulated towns. However, some villages, like Patrica, are finding it difficult to sell their empty homes. Located south of Rome, Patrica is a remote medieval village with a population of only 3,000 residents. Over 40 properties in the village, deserted since the early 1900s, have been left to deteriorate.

In an effort to revitalize the dying village, Mayor Lucio Fiordaliso took inspiration from other successful Italian towns and initiated a one-euro home project. However, Patrica has encountered challenges unique to its circumstances. Unlike towns affected by natural disasters, Patrica requires the consent of owners or their heirs before selling abandoned homes.

Although the town received a positive response from 10 owners initially, they later withdrew from the project. The remaining owners either did not respond or were entangled in family disputes over the inheritance. Italian law stipulates that all heirs must provide written consent for the sale of a property, complicating the process further. Moreover, tracking down descendants who have long migrated overseas and may have different last names has proven to be a difficult task.

Another obstacle hindering the one-euro scheme in Patrica is the condition of the homes. Many properties are in a state of disrepair and unsuitable for sale, even if the owners were willing to sell them. Gianni Valleco, a local resident, attempted to sell his parents' abandoned home but discovered it was essentially a heap of ruins. The roof had collapsed, walls crumbled, and the house had been used as a dumping ground.

Despite these challenges, Mayor Fiordaliso remains determined to sell the long abandoned homes and attract newcomers to the village. To boost Patrica's appeal, the town hall funded the makeover of external facades of ancient palazzos, and locals have begun renovating their old family homes. Tax breaks and incentives have also been introduced for those starting commercial activities in the historic district.

Although there has been interest from foreigners, they tend to favor ready-to-occupy homes or turn-key apartments over dilapidated buildings that require extensive renovations. Real estate agent Ilario Grossi has noted that the cost of refurbishing old properties can often surpass the price of newer, already renovated homes.

Despite these challenges, Patrica remains hopeful that a solution can be found. Mayor Fiordaliso is determined to negotiate with warring relatives, resolve ownership disputes, and eventually sell the abandoned homes in the village.