Italian mountain apartments sell for less than a car

Mountain living in Italy's northeastern Dolomites can be surprisingly affordable, with apartments in less-famous villages costing less than a mid-range car. In Cellino di Sopra, a small settlement of around 80 residents, a 72-square-meter apartment is on the market for 45,000 euros. This translates to about 625 euros per square meter, a stark contrast to the approximately 5,000 euros per square meter found in the renowned resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo.

The property's attractive price gained attention after real estate agent Alessio Piccinato shared a video of the apartment online, which garnered over 600,000 views. Piccinato aims to show that "true mountain" locations still offer affordable housing, even cheaper than a car, appealing to those who value hiking and peace. The apartment itself is habitable, located in a building from the 1980s, and features two bedrooms, a kitchen, living room, fireplace, stove, and a terrace with mountain views. A garage is also included.

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My goal is to show people that there are places in the 'true mountain' where apartment prices are still low, lower than a car. For those who love hiking and tranquility, there are untouched little gems in our territory.

Piccinato notes that 45,000 euros is not unusual for the area, with other properties available at similar prices. These regions may not boast the extensive ski facilities of established resorts but provide numerous hiking trails and access to natural sites like Erto and Casso, Vajont, and Lake Barcis. Similar affordable options can be found in nearby areas such as Frisanco and Val Colvera.

The primary buyers for these mountain properties are typically Italian couples aged 55 to 60, seeking peace, nature, and quiet. Families with young children are less common, as they often prefer proximity to services like hospitals and pharmacies. However, international interest is growing, with Piccinato having recently sold a property in Barcis for 80,000 euros to an American family residing in the UK, who plan to use it as a holiday home. Polish and Hungarian buyers are also reportedly showing interest in the region.

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If you are not looking specifically for ski facilities, but love nature, there are excellent solutions at a fifth of the prices in better-known locations.