The property market in Calabria offers a wide range of possibilities, but it is houses in historic city centres and traditional farmhouses (casali) that generate the most excitement for investors with vision. Such buildings, when properly renovated, gain enormous value and are ideal for boutique flats or B&Bs. Although the purchase of ruins for complete renovation often carries a low asking price, it requires sound financial preparation to cover the cost of materials and labour.
The key to success is to avoid the most common mistake - choosing a property based solely on price, without analysing its technical condition. In Italy, older buildings can have inconsistencies in the plans, so it is essential to work with a local advisor who will check the documentation before finalising the transaction with the notary. Despite the challenges, investing in the historic fabric of Scalea or the surrounding towns is a chance to own a one-of-a-kind property that attracts tourists looking for an authentic experience away from the mass resorts.
