These countries will practically hand you a house if you’re willing to fix it up.
Buying a home doesn’t have to mean draining your savings. In some places, entire villages are filled with abandoned homes just waiting for someone to breathe life back into them. Governments and local communities are offering homes at shockingly low prices—or even for free—if buyers commit to renovating them. It’s a win-win: you get an affordable home, and these towns get a second chance at life.
Some programs even provide grants, tax breaks, or direct payments to encourage new residents to move in. Whether it’s a charming cottage in the European countryside or a traditional home in Japan, these opportunities allow adventurous buyers to own property for a fraction of what it would cost elsewhere. If you’ve ever dreamed of fixing up an old home in a stunning location, and willing to put in the work, these 11 countries are offering deals that are hard to resist.
1. Italy is practically giving away homes in picturesque villages.
Italy’s 1 Euro home program has made headlines worldwide, and for good reason. Small towns across the country—especially in Sicily and rural regions like Abruzzo and Tuscany—are selling abandoned homes for as little as one euro. The catch? Buyers must commit to renovating the property within a few years, usually according to local building codes.
While renovation costs vary, they’re often far less than buying a new home outright. Some towns even offer grants or tax incentives to help with renovations, as stated by Adam Palasciano of Nasdaq. The appeal goes beyond cheap housing—these towns are filled with rich history, stunning landscapes, and incredible food. If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up in an Italian villa without breaking the bank, this could be your chance.
2. Croatia is offering historic homes near the coast for next to nothing.
Croatia’s coastline is a tourist dream, but inland villages have been struggling with population decline. To attract new residents, some towns are selling abandoned homes for as little as 13,000 euros, with government-backed renovation assistance. The villages of Legrad and Draga are among the locations offering these deals, hoping to revitalize their aging communities, according to Arielle Tschienkel of Apartment Therapy.
Buyers who commit to restoring the homes and settling in for at least a few years can benefit from additional incentives like tax breaks and low-interest loans. The upside? A chance to own property in a country known for its breathtaking Adriatic coastline, medieval towns, and warm Mediterranean climate. It’s an appealing option for anyone looking for affordability and adventure.
3. Spain is selling off rural homes at bargain prices.
Spain has entire villages sitting empty, and local governments are eager to bring them back to life. Some regions, especially in Galicia and Andalusia, are offering abandoned homes for as little as €5,000. In some cases, entire villages can be purchased by investors for an incredibly low price, as reported by Disha Kapkoti of Tripoto.
Many of these homes need serious work, but Spain’s lower renovation costs make it feasible. Additionally, some towns provide financial incentives or reduced property taxes for those who commit to restoring and living in these properties. With Spain’s laid-back lifestyle, delicious food, and rich history, these opportunities are ideal for buyers willing to take on a renovation challenge in exchange for a dream home.
4. Ireland offers grants to restore homes in the countryside.
Ireland has many abandoned rural properties, and the government is actively encouraging people to move in and renovate them. Through the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, buyers can receive up to 50,000 euros to restore abandoned homes, making the process more affordable.
These homes are often located in scenic areas with rolling green hills, historic villages, and access to the country’s famously welcoming communities. While Ireland’s property market in major cities remains competitive, these rural opportunities provide an affordable way to own a home while experiencing the charm of small-town life.
5. France has abandoned countryside homes waiting for new owners.
France’s picturesque villages are dotted with abandoned homes, particularly in regions like Normandy, Brittany, and the south of France. Some small towns are offering these properties at minimal cost, provided buyers commit to restoration. Others have programs where they sell historic homes at reduced prices to those willing to invest in renovations.
The French government also provides various incentives, such as reduced property taxes for renovations and low-interest loans for home improvements. With its world-class food, wine, and landscapes, owning a home in France for cheap is an opportunity that feels almost too good to be true.
6. Japan is giving away abandoned houses to revitalize rural areas.
Japan’s akiya (abandoned house) problem has led to entire neighborhoods being left empty. To combat this, many municipalities are listing these homes for free or extremely low prices in akiya banks—databases where potential buyers can find properties in need of renovation. Some areas even offer financial assistance to cover repair costs.
These homes are often located in the countryside, near mountains or historic villages. While Japan’s strict building codes mean renovations need to be carefully planned, the reward is owning a home in one of the world’s most culturally rich countries, often for a fraction of what city properties cost.
7. Austria’s rural regions offer incentives for home restoration.
Austria may be famous for its Alpine ski resorts, but many of its rural areas are struggling with depopulation. Some towns are offering abandoned properties at reduced prices, often alongside financial incentives for renovation and settlement.
For those who don’t mind a quieter lifestyle, this means the chance to own a home surrounded by stunning mountains, lakes, and some of Europe’s best outdoor recreation opportunities. The country’s high standard of living and strong infrastructure make it an attractive place to settle down.
8. Poland is encouraging homeownership in quiet countryside towns.
Poland’s rural regions, particularly in the east, have many abandoned properties that can be purchased at exceptionally low prices. Some towns and municipalities offer tax breaks and renovation grants to attract new homeowners willing to invest in these homes.
With a cost of living lower than most Western European countries and a growing economy, Poland presents a great opportunity for those looking to own property while enjoying a mix of rich history, vibrant cities, and beautiful landscapes.
9. Czech Republic has historic villages with cheap homes ready for restoration.
The Czech countryside is full of charming yet forgotten villages where homes can be bought at incredibly low prices. While major cities like Prague are expensive, rural areas offer much cheaper alternatives, and some municipalities are offering incentives for renovation projects.
These homes often feature beautiful old-world architecture, making them ideal for buyers who appreciate historical charm. With a strong economy and excellent public services, the Czech Republic provides an affordable yet high-quality option for those looking to invest in real estate.
10. Mexico is reviving historic neighborhoods with affordable homes.
In Mexico, some towns and cities are selling abandoned properties at low prices to encourage revitalization. Historic districts, especially in regions like Guanajuato and Yucatán, have old colonial homes that can be purchased and restored at a fraction of the cost of modern housing developments.
The country’s affordable renovation costs and warm climate make it an attractive option for expats and retirees. Some regions even offer tax incentives for home restoration, making it even easier to bring an old property back to life.
11. Switzerland offers incentives for buyers in mountain villages.
Switzerland might be known for high real estate prices, but in rural areas, some municipalities are offering financial incentives to buyers willing to renovate abandoned homes. Villages in the Alps, in particular, are looking for new residents to prevent population decline.
These homes often come with breathtaking mountain views, fresh air, and access to some of the world’s best hiking and skiing. While renovation costs can be higher than in other countries, the high quality of life and long-term investment potential make Swiss properties a unique and appealing option.