(2) Restoring My Historic Villa in Sicily: First Steps of Securing the Property in Italy

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  • Опубліковано 28 вер 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 45

  • @rainaeales6692
    @rainaeales6692 3 дні тому +9

    You’re such a brave soul, I would find all that work so overwhelming. I always admire people that just get on and do it.

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  3 дні тому +4

      Thank you so much! 😊 It’s definitely a huge task and can feel overwhelming at times, but I just take it one step at a time. It’s all part of the adventure, and seeing the progress makes it so rewarding!

  • @neutonrenda2303
    @neutonrenda2303 3 дні тому +8

    So glad I found your content before you get too much done. You're doing something I plan on doing within the next few years, so I'm going to enjoy following. I hope that was a pistachio pastry, the colour is a giveaway.😋👍

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  3 дні тому +3

      Thank you so much! 😊 I’m glad you found my channel early on. It's definitely a big project, but I’m enjoying every step of the journey. And yes, that was a pistachio pastry (one of my favorites)-so delicious! Make sure to check back on Sunday for video 5, and stay tuned for more videos every Sunday. Excited to have you along for the ride!

  • @vassallo49
    @vassallo49 3 дні тому +6

    Cornetto al pistacchio, buono!

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  3 дні тому +3

      Grazie! 😊 Il cornetto al pistacchio è sicuramente uno dei miei preferiti-un ottimo premio dopo una mattinata di duro lavoro sulla villa! Sono anche un grande fan degli arancini, ma sono indeciso tra il ragù e il pollo con funghi come mio preferito.

    • @ail-on3px
      @ail-on3px 2 дні тому +2

      ​@@OperationSicily arancini al burro? Arancini with butter? 🙂

  • @joannamacfarlane5404
    @joannamacfarlane5404 День тому +3

    I am enjoying this already from New Zealand; how some commentary as you work... your thoughts perhaps, where you source materials and furniture from etc. Cheers!

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  День тому

      Thank you so much, Joanna! 😊 I’m really glad you’re enjoying the journey all the way from New Zealand. I’ll definitely be adding more commentary in future videos, sharing my thoughts as I work and where I’m sourcing materials and furniture from. There's a lot more to come, so stay tuned! Cheers for the great suggestion and for following along!

  • @finniganyork9608
    @finniganyork9608 3 дні тому +7

    When was the house built? Can you clean and paint the bed frame? I wonder if you ought to be wearing a mask to keep out the dust and rodent bacteria when you sweep or dislodge droppings and rust, etc?

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  3 дні тому +3

      To be honest, I have no idea when the house was built or how long it’s been empty, but I did find an old newspaper in the kitchen from 1995, which gives a clue about when someone might have last lived here. The only thing I kept while stripping out the house was the large dining table, which was covered in a dirty old plastic waterproof sheet. When I removed it, the tabletop was like brand new! The rodent infestation was intense, something I've never seen on that scale before, so I decided to get rid of everything else. I did eventually find a decent respirator/dust mask, and I've been using it ever since when sweeping out the property-definitely a good call! Thanks for your advice and questions! 😊

    • @vassallo49
      @vassallo49 3 дні тому +1

      I think the 60s

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  3 дні тому

      Thanks for your input! 😊 It’s interesting you mention the 60s; it could definitely be around that time. Finding that old newspaper from 1995 was the only real clue I have so far

    • @annekevangaans9403
      @annekevangaans9403 2 дні тому

      ​@@OperationSicily I just watched your first video and you mentioned 1995, I thought they found some very corny tiles.😂

    • @mikeylorene
      @mikeylorene 2 дні тому +4

      @@OperationSicily From a retired property renovator, real estate agent and house flipper (doing the same you are doing right now), here is a few tips I learned along the way. At this point, I would send in a professional cleaning team and have them pressure wash (with added bleach to the water) the entire house inside and out, including the roof, ceilings, floors, doors and windows, porch and any outside stone or concrete areas. You will never get it properly "clean" by vacuuming and sweeping as you cannot see the hidden mold and insect eggs. Don't waste time and money moving trees- it takes YEARS to grow them and they have a tendency to die if uprooted. Leave the ones already there- you will need that shade- and just plant new things you want in the places you want. Always keep 409 cleaner with you- it has petroleum in it and stops flying bugs, insects and spiders dead in their tracks- those wasps will immediately drop and they will never come back to a 409 sprayed nest- spray 409 on the fly screens, spray around your windows and doorways outside after everything is clean and dry. Put giant CONTAC packets everywhere to get rid of roaches, place D-CON in your attic to get rid of rodents. Keep your cat away while doing this. If you have trouble with any critters accosting you or your cat, keep a spray bottle of ammonia handy- one whiff of that and you will never see that critter on your property again. Try spraying WD40 all over those metal rolling window blinds- they might roll a bit easier with a coating of oil. Oh, and keep the Japanese plum tree. Anything that bears food is a keeper in today's world.

  • @nevisscot7697
    @nevisscot7697 2 дні тому +2

    Is the roof sound?its a lovely property .good luck.

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  2 дні тому +1

      Thanks so much, Nevis! 😊 The roof is in decent condition, but I’ll be checking it thoroughly in an upcoming video to make sure it's completely sound. It’s all part of the journey of bringing this lovely property back to life. Thanks for your good wishes!

  • @a-k6575
    @a-k6575 2 дні тому +2

    Ratatouille stew with a dash of Rat perhaps, just a suggestion.
    There is quite a community of expats in Sicily who could possibly give you a hand once you get to know them.
    A great project, wishing you all the strength and joy needed along the journey.
    PS. Wasp alert, they are not bees.

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  2 дні тому +2

      Haha, a little Ratatouille stew might be just what this villa needs! 🐀 But I’ll try to avoid adding any 'extra ingredients' in the kitchen. Thanks for the tip about the expat community; I’ll definitely be looking to connect with them as the project moves forward! And you’re right about the wasps - I did some research and found out they’re European paper wasps, not bees. Thanks for the encouragement, and I appreciate you following along on this journey!

  • @tedda6171
    @tedda6171 День тому +1

    Living vicariously through you from Australia - looking forward to seeing your work.

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  День тому

      Thank you so much, Tedda! 😊 I’m thrilled to have you following along all the way from Australia. There's a lot more to come, and I can’t wait to share the progress as I bring this villa back to life. Stay tuned for more updates!

  • @toddsholtis4470
    @toddsholtis4470 2 дні тому +1

    Please wear a 3M mask to protect yourself from the rat and bird droppings (whilst sweeping/cleaning), I am a little late in the comments I guess for this.

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  День тому +1

      Thanks for looking out for me, Todd! 😊 I definitely appreciate the advice, and you’re absolutely right about the importance of wearing a mask. I’ve made sure to take precautions while cleaning, and in fact, in the next video, I’ll be mopping the floors with disinfectant multiple times to make sure everything is properly sanitized. It’s all part of making the villa safe and livable! Thanks again for the reminder and for following along on the journey

  • @qasion
    @qasion 5 годин тому

    I do handy work where I live, how the prices in Italy for power tools, would be worth shipping my tools ?

  • @livmaria942
    @livmaria942 2 дні тому +1

    Congratulations on the house, it looks solid and will be a nice place when it's finished🤩. But wow, you have a lot of work ahead of you, but I think it's exciting to see something become beautiful again. Where in Sicily are you, yes you don't have to say the city but just roughly. The reason I'm asking is that next year me and my son want to rent a house and look for a property we can buy. It should ideally be on its own with a large garden. I think it is difficult which part of the island to settle down for. I hear from others that there is a big difference in many things from region to region. But preferably as close to the sea as possible as we love the sea. Hope you will be happy with the house and the place and will enjoy your new life. We are from Denmark but can't recognize our country anymore and people are more and more angry and unapproachable. I think from what I have seen of videos from many that they have a completely different attitude to life than both UK and Dk. People seem happy and welcoming. And lovely food and the prices are affordable. Good luck going forward with it all. Kind regards Maria.😊

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  День тому +1

      Thank you so much, Maria, and congratulations on considering your own adventure in Sicily! 😊 Being located near the sea was also an important factor for me when I was searching for a property, and I can assure you, it’s a decision I’m so glad I made.
      I completely understand what you mean about not recognizing your country anymore. To be honest, I feel the same about the UK, and I think many people across Europe feel that way too. But Sicily truly is something else-it feels like stepping back in time 20 years, where everyone is so friendly, welcoming, and eager to help. It’s been a breath of fresh air for me. I just need to massively improve my Italian so I can engage more with the locals, but finding the time to learn a whole new language with everything else going on is definitely a challenge!
      If you're serious about finding the perfect spot, I’d highly recommend traveling along the coastline and spending a few nights in different areas to get a feel for each one. You’ll know when you find the place that feels right. And yes, the food out here is absolutely incredible-definitely a game changer!
      Another thing I love about Sicily is that you’ll still find small, independent bakeries, florists, butchers, little DIY shops, cafes, delis, and greengrocers everywhere. It’s so refreshing compared to the large chain supermarkets that have taken over in the UK.
      If you have any more questions or need any advice, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you and your son the best of luck on your journey, and I hope you find your dream home here in Sicily! 😊

    • @livmaria942
      @livmaria942 День тому

      @@OperationSicily Hello again, Thank you for your sweet reply, nice when people respond to one.
      I can understand that you find it difficult to find time to learn their language because I also started a few weeks ago. I follow 3 on you tube who are incredibly good and easy to understand in their way of explaining things. Because it will be nice to be able to say just a little and hopefully understand them too. Because they want to talk, I can see that from the videos I follow.
      But yes, they seem totally different with their good mood and interest in new people. It will be exciting to come and have a look around, because we definitely want to before we decide on something permanent.
      Well, you're probably still busy cleaning and working and sweating, because at least you get the heat with such a project. Good will to work with it all. Also remember to relax a bit in between so you don't burn out, as it's hard. I hope your fine trees come to life again. although your garden is enclosed, I think you have a lot of privacy and can sit in peace. have a good time looking forward to the next video. Kind regards Maria.🙂

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  День тому +1

      Thank you so much for your kind words and advice, Maria! 😊 It’s really encouraging to hear that you’re also learning the language-I agree, being able to communicate even a little makes such a difference when engaging with the locals. They genuinely have so much to share, and their warmth and friendliness make it worth every effort to learn!
      Yes, it's definitely a challenge balancing the renovation, cleaning, and trying to squeeze in some Italian lessons, but I'm determined to make it all work. And you’re absolutely right, the heat definitely adds another layer to it all! I’ve been trying to take your advice and remember to rest in between, especially with so much still ahead.
      I have my fingers crossed for the fruit trees-they've been through a lot, but I’m doing my best to nurse them back to health. The garden really is a little oasis, and I’m grateful for the privacy it offers amidst all the hard work.
      Wishing you all the best with your property search, and I hope you and your son find the perfect place to call home here in Sicily! If you ever need any tips or advice, feel free to reach out, and don’t forget to follow along on Instagram @Operation.Sicily for more updates. Take care, and I look forward to hearing about your own journey! 🌿😊

    • @livmaria942
      @livmaria942 21 годину тому

      @@OperationSicily It sounds good that you remember to relax too. Because we're not used to the heat, it's something I really think we'll have to get used to along the way. Nice that you are taking care of the trees because they will be very nice again and what a joy to see them thrive.
      thank you for writing that if we need advice, we can ask you for help with things, because wow there is a lot to keep track of. Do you live all the way out west at the tip almost close to the coast. Or have I seen wrong, yes I'm smiling because I'm a bit curious about what people choose from places as it would actually be nice to know a little about someone else who has also moved from their home country. And with whom you can communicate after all. Because it takes some time before that language takes hold, I think. The heat would be great with air conditioning. Me and the son bought a big one each for our bedrooms this summer when they were on a wild offer for 250 euros each, and what joy we have had from them, fantastic to be able to sleep well.
      We think we will rent a motorhome next year in Germany and drive on from there, because we have a male labrador dog Anton, 7 years old, who will of course go with us, and it is all easier with the house on our back for now.😄 Thanks again for your kindness.🙂

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  6 годин тому +1

      It sounds like you have a great plan, Maria! 😊 Renting a motorhome and traveling with your Labrador, Anton, sounds like the perfect way to explore Sicily and find your ideal spot. It’ll give you the freedom to see different regions and really get a feel for each area.
      Yes, I’m based out west, not too far from the coast, which means I get to enjoy those beautiful sea breezes every now and then! The heat can be challenging, and air conditioning would definitely be a dream come true one day. That’s amazing you managed to find such a great deal on your units-I’m sure they’ve been a lifesaver during summer!
      If you ever have any questions about the move or need advice on specific areas, feel free to reach out. Wishing you and Anton all the best with your journey, and I look forward to hearing more about your adventures! Don’t forget to follow along on Instagram @Operation.Sicily for more updates. Safe travels! 🚐🐾😊

  • @emmsue1053
    @emmsue1053 24 хвилини тому

    You're amazing, patience of a Saint! Stick some WD40 on all those blinds & locks now they are sorted? Please adopt the lame sheep from Vid 1 as well?? (Cos you don't have enough to cope with right now, LOL) Its rained here in Mancs today and the heating went on at tea time!!

    • @emmsue1053
      @emmsue1053 23 хвилини тому

      P.S> Cant read the captions, too small.. Sorry.

  • @menmanagement
    @menmanagement День тому

    Sorry but this is Operation BUST … opening: figs growing WOW and entire video loud noise with no narration or talk while work in progress. I’m not here to feel your pain, I’m here to be DYI entertained. Not a subscriber, just one time that’s it watcher.

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  День тому

      Thanks for the honest feedback! 😊 I’m still finding my style and learning as I go, so I really appreciate hearing what viewers are looking for. I’ll be working on adding more narration and sharing more of the DIY process in upcoming videos.

  • @barrycain2320
    @barrycain2320 День тому

    I/m glad that I found you. I am from South Carolina in the states. I have a friend in Italy that is encouraging my real estate partner and I to purchase a villa in Sicily. What is the going rate for a villa? Where is your located ?

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  День тому +1

      Thanks for finding my channel, Barry! 😊 It’s great to hear you’re considering a villa in Sicily-there are so many amazing opportunities here. I’ll be covering all the details about the cost and process of buying my villa in an upcoming video, so stay tuned for that! I’m located near Trapani, which is on the western side of Sicily. It’s a beautiful area with a lot of charm and history. Best of luck with your search, and feel free to reach out if you have any other questions!

  • @axpeg
    @axpeg 16 годин тому

    Dai serramenti, porte e finestre in genere, si evince che la costruzione dell'immobile risale a fine anni 70 inizio anni 80, in quegli anni si usavano questi modelli. Dalla chioma degli alberi che si vede in video, credo sia almeno 10 anni che nessuno li cura. Al minuto 13,05 avresti potuto tagliare il cilindro della chiave invece di rovinare la porta, ci sono vari tutorial su UA-cam, ricordalo la prossima volta. Per il resto, auguri per la mole di lavoro che c'è da fare.

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  7 годин тому +1

      Hai perfettamente ragione, ho combinato un bel pasticcio con l'apertura della porta sul retro! Ero totalmente concentrato sul lavoro e non stavo pensando bene-avrei potuto semplicemente spezzare il cilindro europeo. Grazie per il consiglio, lo ricorderò per la prossima volta! 😊 Ad ogni modo, tutte le porte e finestre verranno sostituite, quindi fortunatamente non sarà un problema a lungo termine. Grazie mille per gli auguri, e spero che continuerai a seguire il mio viaggio!

  • @antoniosidoni5310
    @antoniosidoni5310 3 дні тому +1

    Ciao.
    Where do you live while restoring the villa?

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  3 дні тому +9

      Ciao! 😊 I’ve been staying in an Airbnb while working on the villa. As soon as I get the electrics sorted and the water well up and running, I’ll be moving into the property, which I’m really looking forward to! It’s been a great way to experience life in Sicily bit by bit, and the locals have been so nice and friendly!

    • @richardmarino5658
      @richardmarino5658 3 дні тому +1

      Congratulations on your new home. Although you may have a lot to do I’m sure you will succeed. Patience is the key.

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  3 дні тому +2

      Thank you so much, Richard! 😊 Patience is definitely key with a project like this, and I'm excited to see it all come together bit by bit. It's a big challenge, but I’m ready to tackle it. The support and encouragement mean a lot-grazie! 🙏🏡

  • @nickiemoreno1261
    @nickiemoreno1261 2 дні тому +2

    🤔🧐 Shopping list: WD40, mask, gloves, drill & bits, electric, water, man you got a lot to do! I love watching this side of real life. 👍🏼💪🏼💦🧰🪛🔧🔨⚒️🛠️⛏️🪚🔩⚙️⛓️🧲🔪🪓🧹🪠🧺🛁🚿🚽🧻🧻🧻🧻🧻🧻🪥🪒🧼🪣🧽🔐📝🖌️📪🕰️🧯🪔💳🪪🛻🎼 and tons of prayers 🙏🏼😉

    • @OperationSicily
      @OperationSicily  День тому

      Thanks, Nickie! 😊 That’s definitely quite the shopping list-I might need a second cart! 😂 You’re absolutely right; there’s a lot to tackle, but that’s all part of the adventure. I’m glad you’re enjoying this real-life renovation journey, and there’s plenty more to come. Stay tuned