(NewsNation) — First, it was ultra-cheap homes, as little as €1 in a town in Sicily. Now, one of Italy’s most scenic regions is trying to attract new people by offering to pay people to move there. But, of course, there are a few terms and conditions.
Tuscany, Italy’s famous region in the middle of the country, is offering €10,000 to €30,000 to move to one of 76 small towns — emphasis on “small.” All the towns have populations of 5,000 or fewer.
Anyone interested must commit time as well as money. Americans must apply for a residence permit lasting at least 10 years, and must use the home as a primary residence, not a vacation house.
Also: applicants have to move fast. The application deadline for the program ends July 27.
Moving incentives are nothing new in Italy. The Sicilian village of Sambuca di Sicilla offered homes for just €1 in 2019. The most famous taker was actress Lorraine Bracco. The “Sopranos” star documented her purchase and renovation in a series that ran on HGTV.
Tuscany offers houses and apartments in all prices ranges, including many move-in ready homes for under €100,000. The strong U.S. dollar has put it nearly even with the Euro. €100,000 equals about $106,000.
American interest in Tuscany has steadily grown, thanks to a cost of living that’s about 20% cheaper than the U.S., slower inflation and a longer average life expectancy.