Texas Couple Purchases Italian Mansion Sight-Unseen for $160,000
A Texas couple has recently made headlines by purchasing a historic mansion in Italy for a fraction of what similar properties cost in the United States. John Alan Ambrose, 61, and his wife, Vicky, 57, acquired the empty shell of a former palazzo in Biella for €140,000, approximately $160,000, despite never having visited the city beforehand. Their bold decision marks a shift from the popular trend of buying one-euro houses in picturesque Italian towns, leaning instead toward this more unique opportunity.
Details of the Purchase
In 2022, the Ambroses bought a mansion located in the foothills of the Alps in Piedmont. The property, built in the 1930s in the Liberty style, boasts 14-foot ceilings, solid wood doors, and arched windows overlooking picturesque courtyards. The couple has since embarked on a three-year renovation journey, investing an additional €150,000 to transform the building into a luxury apartment featuring four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and two balconies.
Biella: A Hidden Gem
- City Overview: Biella, a lesser-known city in northern Italy, is recognized for high-quality wool production.
- Historic Significance: The city is filled with buildings dating back to the 16th and 18th centuries.
- Local Attractions: The renowned Duomo cathedral, Sanctuary of Oropa, and easy access to stunning lakes and vineyards.
Vicky discovered Biella while exploring opportunities in Italian cashmere and wool. She appreciated the city’s blend of small-town charm and proximity to major transport hubs. The generous local culture and affordability of real estate compared to the U.S. further attracted the couple to their adventure.
Overcoming Renovation Challenges
The most significant challenges arose during the renovation process. The couple faced issues such as language barriers, unreliable contractors, and bureaucratic red tape due to the historic status of the building. Despite these hurdles, the Ambroses took a hands-on approach to their renovation.
Renovation Highlights
- Updated plumbing and wiring throughout the apartment.
- Transformed bathrooms and kitchens with high-quality fixtures.
- Completed cosmetic enhancements such as air conditioning, new flooring, and paint.
While their renovations took longer than expected, they resulted in a luxurious space perfect for Alpine skiing adventures and hosting family and friends, including their son, Cleary.
Life in Biella
The Ambroses now immerse themselves in the local lifestyle. They enjoy the vibrant café scene, participate in outdoor activities, and explore the beauty of the surrounding region. They relish the unexpected aspects of life in Biella, including the less hurried pace, which contrasts significantly with their experiences back in Texas.
Cultural Insights
- Shops often close during midday and on Mondays, requiring careful planning for errands.
- Interactions with locals frequently begin with inquiries about their decision to live in Biella.
The couple cherishes their time in Italy, finding joy in both the mountains and the luxurious lifestyle they have cultivated. They expressed satisfaction with their choice and the unique qualities of Biella, dismissing the trend of one-euro homes as too risky. Instead, they found a haven in the Piedmont region, where they can enjoy both their passion for skiing and a relaxing retreat.
