Couple Bought a 3-Bedroom Apartment in Italy for $407,000 and Spent $65,000 Renovating – Take a Look Inside

A Passionate Pursuit of a Dream

Cassandra Kane, a New Jersey-native, had a life-changing experience when she studied abroad in London in 2009. She fell in love with Tuscany and knew that she would one day return. Eight years later, after finding herself between jobs in New York City, she decided to take the plunge and move to Florence, Italy. It was during this time that she met her now-husband, Lorenzo Berchielli.

From Small to Big

Initially, the couple lived in a one-bedroom apartment owned by Berchielli, but Kane had her heart set on a place with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. After touring 30 apartments in six months, they stumbled upon a property that fit their criteria, complete with a unique mural painted on the built-in wardrobe in the master bedroom. The property’s previous owners, antique dealers, had filled the apartment to the brim with antiques and treasures.

The Unconventional Decision

Despite being filled to the brim with stuff, the overall apartment was in good condition, but the kitchen and bathrooms needed a total renovation. Kane and Berchielli decided to take the risk and buy the apartment, spending about $65,000 fixing it up. They bought a used kitchen on Facebook Marketplace, gutted the bathrooms, living room, and one of the bedrooms, and updated the plumbing and electrical systems.

A Labor of Love

Kane and Berchielli were hands-on throughout the renovation process, completing tasks such as painting, hauling garbage to the dump, and mounting doors. Kane, an entrepreneur, is now the owner of a luxury accessories brand, Sieme, which uses repurposed leather. She plans to fill the new home with artisan pieces that tell a story about their life together.

‘It was the Worst Decision’

However, the process wasn’t without its challenges. The couple had to dispose of some unusual items left behind by the previous owners, including old dentures and diapers. Despite the difficulties, they are thrilled to have made it through the renovation process and are now enjoying their new home.

‘Now is the Fun Part’

Today, the apartment is still a work in progress, but Kane is excited to continue making it her own. She plans to host friends and family and fill the space with pieces that tell the story of their relationship. As they settle into their new life in Italy, they are learning to navigate the country’s unique property market and bureaucracy.

Conclusion

Cassandra Kane and Lorenzo Berchielli’s story is one of following one’s dreams, taking risks, and learning from the experiences that come with buying and renovating a property in a foreign country. With its rich history and stunning landscapes, Italy is a popular destination for expats, and their journey serves as a valuable lesson for anyone considering a similar path.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What inspired you to buy a property in Italy?
A: Cassandra Kane was inspired by her experience studying abroad in Tuscany and always knew that she would return. She decided to take the plunge and move to Florence after finding herself between jobs in New York City.

Q: How did you find your new home?
A: After touring 30 apartments in six months, Cassandra and Lorenzo found their dream home through an unconventional listing. They made a verbal offer, and the contract of sale was signed in January.

Q: What was the renovation process like?
A: The couple handled some of the work themselves, including painting, hauling garbage to the dump, and mounting doors. They spent about $65,000 fixing up the property and updating the plumbing and electrical systems.

Q: What do you plan to do with your new home?
A: Cassandra and Lorenzo plan to fill the space with artisan pieces that tell the story of their life together. They will continue to renovate and make the space their own, hosting friends and family in the future.

Q: What advice do you have for anyone considering buying and renovating a property abroad?
A: Cassandra advises not outsourcing any part of the process, being your own biggest advocate, and doing your research to avoid surprises. She also stresses the importance of learning about the local property market and bureaucracy.