Find A Bargain Apartment In Italy

It is far from the most frequented beach hotspot in Calabria, the south Italian region on the instep of Italy’s stiletto-shaped landmass. Even Calabrians might concede it isn’t the prettiest, not with San Lucido, Paola, Tropea, Briatico and Belvedere Marittimo in the running.

Nonetheless for home hunters trying to find something that won’t break the bank, the unassuming location of Scalea is our surprise recommendation for 2012. The location comes with all the advantages of more prominent hotspots sea retreats – a stunning sandy beach, crystal blue waters and a temperature averaging a balmy 49.5 degrees Fahrenheit even in January and that hits about typically 79 in early Autumn. Then again late Autumn has typical temperatures of close to 73 degrees. But it is in terms of bargain homes – conceivably the best deals one can find across the Italian property sector at the moment – that it really takes prominence.

House prices hover just under Euro 1,000 for a square metre. So that means a 25sq m studio apartment barely 500 metres from the beaches can start from just Euro 20,000. A 30sq m one-bedroom sea-view option can change hands for as little as Euro29,000 or Euro 30,000.

Not overly large, but adequate for a couple of holidaymakers – or three or four if they are content to use the living room to sleep in at night-time. Add the fact that often both coast and shopping will be around a 5-minute walk and that is undeniable value.

For an option a trifle more roomy but still considerably within a modest budget, a 50sq m twin-bedroom choice can start at around Euro49,000 . One might also get one or more of a view of the sea, balcony and garden for that if you shop around.

In general, the average expense of day-to-day living in Italy’s southern regions – everything from property prices to what you are charged for a cup of coffee – tends to be far more affordable than in regions like Tuscany, which draw far more overseas holidaymakers and are more expensive as a result.

The speed of day-to-day living in this neck of the woods is inclined to be far more unhurried. This is, you quickly come to appreciate, traditional Italy. A feature that is slowly altering, with overseas buyers increasingly eyeing resorts such as Scalea in search of better value. Locals have for decades vacationed here of course – all of which means letting scope for your property is in rude health.

But there is much more to Scalea than affordable houses to buy The area is home to nearly 11,000 inhabitants and sees that population swollen in summer months as Italians and growing hordes of UK and US visitors flock to the resort. On top of the great scenery, the sea being overlooked by mountains, this location boasts a rich cultural heritage.

The town came to prominence as a Byzantine sea port, attracting merchants from around the ancient world. A Byzantine castle and ancient wall dominate the medieval centre, perched on the hillside looking down on the sea and the port, which is vibrant with modern hotels and large villas.

Getting to Scalea is straightforward too. The most convenient international airport is Lamezia Terme, around 120km to the south, while Naples’ Capodichino Airport is 2hr 35 mins by car in the opposite direction. Both airports are also accessible by train as Scalea has a mainline train station.

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About the author

The author writes about property for sale in Italy at Homes and Villas Abroad. She is also knowledgeable on luxury Tuscany property and Italian mortgage deals.

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