Julia Silk

While working as the website Manager for a radio station in Bournemouth, Julia met Marcus. After buying a house in Dorset and doing a lot of work on it themselves, they realised they both loved the idea of renovating old houses, particularly stone ones. In 2003 they bought a stone house in a village by the sea in Greece. In those two years they learnt that “If someone else is able to do something, then so could they”, and set about doing the tiling, plastering etc. themselves. They also offered holiday rental while they were preparing to sell the property. After selling the house in Greece, they found another stone house outside a village in Istria, Croatia. Once again, they did most of the renovation work themselves, except for new electrics and plumbing. Both properties had thick limestone walls that needed pointing, and stone and wood flooring that needed relaying, as well as bathrooms and kitchens.

An Italian renovation

In 2008 they set out on their biggest challenge yet, when they bought a small Masseria with an olive grove in Puglia, Italy, that had no electric or plumbing and was a total mess. They thought they would buy, renovate and sell again. However, this time they couldn’t think of anywhere else they would rather be and decided to stay. Through experience and research over the years, Julia has gained immense knowledge of buying, renovating and living in Italy, which she has been exclusively sharing with Property Guides readers, and expats starting a new life in her area of Puglia. Julia’s love of Italy’s history, architecture, culture, traditions and way of life is evident in her writing.  

Julia's home in Puglia

 

Help, my Italian home came with 400 olive trees!

 

Bougainvillea and local stone: Julia's home

   

Articles by Julia Silk

The appeal of Italian property to wealthy individuals

Wealth can buy you a luxury Italian property in some of the most exclusive cities, with unique architecture and incredible views. If you long to improve your work-life balance in a glorious location, Italy has some of the most beautiful cities of art and picturesque natural landscapes. But, how else is Italy tempting wealthy individuals to buy property in Italy?

Where are people buying property in Greece?

When considering where to buy property in Greece, the most popular tourist towns tend to have the best transport links and places of interest. If you plan to offer holiday rental, well known resorts are likely to be the best investment. However, asking prices are higher in top holiday destinations, where beaches, restaurants and shops are all within walking distance.

Should I invest in a property in Greece?

Investing in a property in Greece can be rewarding in so many ways. Houses are still very affordable, while growing in value each year. Summer tourism is going strong and rental potential for your property is good. Plus, there is a confidence among big investors in the future of Greece.

Puglia is enchanting the rich and famous

Puglia is attracting the attention of some well-known faces and TV chefs. Some looking for a peaceful holiday and others with a TV crew in tow. They come in search of the real unspoilt Italy, authentic and laid back. Where the food, culture, architecture and warm welcome, make you feel immediately at home.

Affordable properties in Italy’s most popular regions

Amazingly, you can still find affordable properties in Italy, even in Tuscany, Sicily and Puglia. Whether looking for a holiday home, a cheap doer upper or a nice spot to retire to, there are plenty of properties for sale for less than €200,000. You can even find countryside villas and stone houses needing some modernisation for under €100,000.

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