Sambuca di Sicilia, Italy – When Meredith Tabbone made the decision to purchase and revamp a bargain-priced home in Italy, she had no idea it would lead to a transformative journey. Over the course of more than four years and nearly half a million dollars, Tabbone’s experience with her 1-euro home in Italy has reshaped her views on work, life, friendships, and happiness.

A financial advisor from Chicago, Tabbone stumbled upon an opportunity in 2019 in Sambuca di Sicilia, a town in Italy auctioning off deserted properties for as little as 1 euro, roughly $1.05. Delving into her family history, Tabbone uncovered a link to Sambuca, where her great-grandfather was born before venturing to America.

Captivated by the serendipity of the connection, Tabbone placed a bid and secured ownership of the home for 5,900 euros, about $6,200, along with an adjacent building. Commencing a massive renovation project, she invested around $475,000 into her Italian dream home.

Embracing the relaxed Sicilian pace of life, Tabbone adapted to a slower renovation timeline and confronted setbacks due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges, she found solace in the community spirit and camaraderie with locals, fostering deep friendships that enriched her life in Sicily.

The shift in perspective extended to Tabbone’s professional life as well, leading her to reevaluate her priorities and strive for a better work-life balance. Gaining a newfound appreciation for personal fulfillment, Tabbone now directs her energy towards personal goals, like exploring every corner of the globe.

Reflecting on her journey, Tabbone’s only regret lies in not embracing the concept of slower living sooner. The experience has not only redefined her outlook on work and life but also solidified her belief that Sambuca was the perfect place to immerse herself in a meaningful project and a vibrant community.

Overall, Tabbone’s venture into the realm of Italian homeownership serves as a testament to the transformative power of embracing new experiences, fostering human connections, and finding fulfillment in unexpected places.