Thank you so much! 😊 The unique style and character are what drew me to this villa in the first place. The front walls definitely have a charm of their own. I can’t wait to see it all restored and brought back to life-there’s still a long way to go, but it’s going to be worth it! Appreciate you following the journey!
It's such a big job you have taken on, and you're getting it well started! Keep it up, soon you will have lots of subscribers, and a house you can call a home. I have joined your cheerleading squad
Thank you so much for your support! 😊 It’s definitely a huge job, and the gardens are massive, which is going to take a lot of work too, but I love a challenge, so it's the perfect fit for me! The intense heat has also been a real challenge, especially coming from the UK-it’s tough to capture just how warm it is on camera. Your encouragement means a lot, and I’m so glad to have you on this journey with me! 🎉🏡
Thank you so much for subscribing! 😊 I really appreciate the support. And yes, you're absolutely right about the mask! I managed to find a decent respirator/dust mask and have been using it whenever I’m sweeping out the property. The amount of rat droppings has been unreal, so it’s definitely been essential.
Absolutely, safety first! 😊 This renovation journey is a marathon, not a sprint, so I need to stay healthy and protected. Thanks again for looking out-it's great to have such supportive viewers
Welcome to the channel, and thank you for subscribing! 😊 It’s definitely a big project with lots of potential, and I’m excited to share the journey with you. Greetings from Sicily to Naples, Florida! 🌞 Looking forward to having you along for the adventure!
First job get some outside or inside clean space with shade for your Siesta - never work in August, it's Italy. Never work after 12pm, or 2pm or 5pm, bed by 9pm. No wonder there are no jobs for the young. Yes we too have 1960s mattresses up North though, buy once last forever, yuck.
Great advice! 😊 I definitely need to create a shaded space for those siestas-working in the August heat here in Sicily has been intense, so I can see why taking breaks is a must. The local way of life is something I’m getting used to, and I’m learning to pace myself with the renovation. As for those old mattresses, I totally agree-they’ve definitely seen better days! Thanks for watching and sharing your tips! 🌞
Thanks so much for the encouragement! 😊 I’m not exactly sure how long the property has been empty, but I suspect the seller may have inherited it from a relative, so it could have been vacant for quite some time. Most of the droppings I’ve found are definitely from rats-I discovered a dead rat in the small bedroom and another one in the kitchen sink trap, which wasn’t a pleasant find at all. Rat nests were everywhere-in drawers, shoes, buckets, and even inside the back of kitchen appliances. Cleaning it all up has been a real challenge! Have you ever dealt with anything like this? Appreciate your support-it’s been quite the adventure so far! 🐀🏚️
Thank you so much for your concern! 😊 You're absolutely right about the mask-it's essential for dealing with the rodent droppings. I did manage to find a decent respirator/dust mask, and I've been wearing it whenever I’m cleaning up. The transformation has been challenging but also incredibly rewarding. I’m glad to have you along for the journey!
I just found your channel, also. Your home, and that completely walled garden, is so charming! I've not seen anything like it in Italy - maybe it's particularly Sicilian?!? I agree w/some other comments re creating a little oasis of calm in your garden; sow some grass, plant some flowers or buy some potted plants; maybe get a hammock where you can rest and breathe fresh air! A little patch of green and beautiful color will offer some respite from the rat droppings and skittering geckos.
Thank you so much for your kind words and for joining the journey! 😊 The walled garden definitely has that unique Sicilian charm, and I can't wait to transform it into a beautiful oasis. Over time, I plan to make some big changes, including a large swimming pool, an outdoor kitchen, and outbuildings for storage and a water well pump and filtration room. The back garden will have a spacious terrace with seating and sofas for relaxing, and I’m excited about developing the roof terrace-it offers amazing views over the countryside! 🌿 The fruit trees in the back garden will be moved to the front, and I’ll be adding even more varieties to create a lush, green space. I love the idea of a hammock and adding flowers and plants for that perfect patch of green. It's going to be a great place to unwind! 🌳
New to your channel 😊...just wondering what area in Sicily your located?...i was born in Sicily and came to Canada when i was 12.... Also, what price range would this villa be in and which agent or immobiliari did you use to acquire your villa...thanks!!
Welcome to the channel, Joseph! 😊 I’m located near Trapani, on the western side of Sicily-it's such a beautiful area with a lot of charm. I’m planning to make a dedicated video soon where I'll cover all the details about the cost of the villa, the process of buying it, and the agent I used, so stay tuned for that! It’s great to connect with someone who was born in Sicily, and I hope you enjoy following my renovation journey. Feel free to ask any other questions in the meantime!
Thank you so much, Vicki! 😊 I really appreciate your support all the way from Australia. It’s going to be a lot of hard work, but I’m excited to share the journey with you. If you’d like more updates along the way, feel free to follow me on Instagram @Operation.Sicily. New video coming out tomorrow as well! 🇮🇹🏡
The little gecko is cute as. Think they're called wall geckos. Those mattresses scared the bejesus out of me. I was waiting for a rat to jump out and challenge you. I did battle with rats once when we renovated an old property...the smell is beyond disgusting. I'm feeling your pain...lol.
Thanks, Joy! 😊 The little wall gecko has definitely become my unexpected renovation buddy-always popping up when I least expect it! And believe me, those mattresses had me on edge too-I was half-expecting a rat showdown myself! 😂 The smell from the rats was truly something else, but it's all part of the journey, right? Thanks for sharing your story, and I’m glad you’re following along. Let’s hope there are no more rat surprises ahead!
Grand job done! The tower is amazing, will it need glass at some stage or is it like that for ventilation and cool air? have a couple of days off now, you deserve a break. Subscribed, thanks for posting.
Salve, ti dico già, che mi sono iscritto dal tuo primo video. Dalle piccole informazioni che ho, credo che tu abbia preso questa casa, nella mia stessa provincia e da ciò, sarò lieto se tu vorrai, di darti qualche dritta, di tanto in tanto. Iniziando con una cosa frivola,...Gli arancini come li chiami tu,...Dalla punta estrema occidentale della Sicilia fino ad arrivare a Palermo, l'Arancin..o è femmina cioè Arancina. da Palermo a Catania è Maschio, = Arancino. 😁. detto questo, mettiti in contatto con l'ufficio del comune di pertinenza che si occupa dei rifiuti, saranno loro a sgombrare tutto con i loro mezzi. Per il recupero del ferro, c'è un'azienda che conosco, che in base alla tua ipotetica posizione dista da te circa 40 Km e da ciò che potresti ricavare, non prenderesti nemmeno il costo della benzina, dato che dovresti essere tu a portarglieli. per il pozzo, affidati ad un'azienda seria, che lo ripulisca e che faccia le analisi dell'acqua. Per il resto, al prossimo video.
Salve e grazie mille per il tuo supporto! 😊 Mi farebbe davvero piacere avere qualcuno con la tua conoscenza locale. Mandami un’email a hello@operationsicily.com e sarò felice di condividere la mia posizione. Sto cercando dei bei mattoni per ricostruire il pozzo e delle belle pietre per costruire i muri della terrazza del giardino sul retro. Se conosci qualche posto che potrebbe fornirmi questi materiali, sarei davvero grato! Per quanto riguarda il pozzo, ho in programma di svuotarlo, disinfettarlo, lasciarlo riempire di nuovo e poi far analizzare l’acqua per verificare se è sicura. Le pareti del pozzo sono di terra e sembrano scavate a mano, quindi c’è un bel po’ di lavoro da fare, ma è fondamentale per me sistemarlo poiché non c’è un approvvigionamento idrico principale per la casa-il pozzo sarà la fonte principale d’acqua. Grazie ancora e spero di sentirti presto!
Grazie mille, Cristina! 😊 Sì, credo anche io che la casa sia stata abbandonata per almeno 10 anni, forse anche di più! Ma con un po’ di lavoro, intonaco nuovo e un po' di amore, sono sicuro che diventerà bellissima. Sono felice che ti piaccia il progetto-grazie per il tuo supporto! 🙏
Doing this work alone on your own is a very huge task. A complete restructuring, may cost up to 100K€ or more if done by a company. At least you are making a big saving. Geckos kill insects and are said to bring good fortune.
You're absolutely right, Luca-it's a massive task to take on alone, but that's all part of the adventure! 😊 By doing most of the work myself, I’m saving a lot compared to hiring a company, though I will bring in some help for things like electrics and any heavy digger work. And yes, I’ve heard geckos are good luck! There are plenty of them around, so hopefully, they bring me lots of fortune as I continue this project! 🦎💪
Just subscribed and enjoying the vids, well done mate. A days work clearing the contents into a big skip. New Windows, lick of paint and jobs a good one! Have you thought about solar for electricity (you may have mentioned it, I'm only on vid #2) Looking forward to seeing the updates. Cheers.
Thanks so much for subscribing, mate! 😊 Glad you’re enjoying the videos so far. I agree, a big skip would make things quicker, but I’m working with a limited budget, so I’m doing it bit by bit! As for solar, it’s definitely something I’m considering, especially since there’s no mains electricity to the property right now. It would be a great way to get some off-grid power going! Appreciate your support, and if you want to follow along with more updates, feel free to check out my Instagram @Operation.Sicily. Cheers! ☀️🔧
Thank you so much for joining the journey, Mercia! 😊 I'm excited to have you along as I transform this Sicilian villa. There's a lot of work ahead, but I can't wait to share every step of the renovation process with you! 🏡🔨 Stay tuned!
Yeahhh... You should be wearing a mask. God only knows what your breathing in.. and I jump 50 ft as soon as I saw the bug!!! 😳... And it definitely needs to be to sanitized!! YIKES!!
Thanks for the concern, Yolanda! 😊 You’re absolutely right-I’ve made sure to take safety seriously, especially with the disinfecting. In fact, in the next video, I’ll be thoroughly sanitizing the floors with fresh disinfectant, mopping them three times to make sure everything is as clean as possible. Believe me, I would've loved to use a vacuum cleaner, but with no electricity, I’m doing what I can! As for the bugs, they definitely keep me on my toes! 😂 Thanks for watching and following the journey!
Thank you so much, Marianne! 😊 Those old Italian motifs are definitely something, aren't they? The bathroom tiles are a bit wild, but they do have a certain charm! I’m excited to keep making progress, and I can’t wait to see how the casa transforms. If you'd like to follow more updates, feel free to check out my Instagram @Operation.Sicily. New video coming out tomorrow too! 🛠️🏡
Thank you so much for the encouragement, Helena! 😊 As for the bathroom, those tiles are certainly…something, aren’t they? 😂 They’re so bright and colorful, I feel like I’m stepping into a '70s disco every time I walk in! But they’ve definitely seen better days. As for electricity and water, it couldn’t be any worse-there’s currently no electricity at the property, not even a main power connection. And there’s no main water supply either. But on the plus side, there is an old water well in the back garden, so I’m planning to renovate and use that as my water source. It’s going to be a challenge, but I’m excited to make it work! ⚡💧
Haha, I know, right? It did look like I walked into an episode of CSI: Sicily! 😂 No idea why it was left in such a state, but I’m on a mission to turn that ‘murder scene’ into a dream bedroom. Appreciate you watching, and if you’re up for more renovation mysteries, feel free to follow along on Instagram @Operation.Sicily! 🕵️♂️🏡
Thank you so much, Joop! 😊 It really was a huge mess to begin with, but bit by bit, it's starting to come together. I appreciate your kind words and support-it keeps me motivated! If you'd like to follow more of the journey, feel free to check out my Instagram @Operation.Sicily. There's still a lot more to come! 🛠️
Thanks for the advice, Ellen! 😊 I wish it were that easy, but things move a bit differently out here in Sicily. Getting a dumpster sorted isn’t as straightforward, and I’m trying to do this project on a very tight budget. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for scrappers who might want to take the unwanted appliances, though! Appreciate you watching, and if you'd like to follow the journey, feel free to check out my Instagram @Operation.Sicily. 🚧
Thanks for your question, Heather! 😊 I’m planning to cover all the details about the cost of the property and the buying process in an upcoming video, so stay tuned! I promise it’ll be worth the wait. Thanks for following along on the journey!
Thank you, Sharon! 😊 The tower actually adds a lot of character to the villa, but I’m not entirely sure of its original purpose. It might have been for ventilation, as you mentioned, or simply to give the house a bit of an architectural flair. I plan to make it a key feature and maybe even convert it into something functional! Feel free to follow along on Instagram @Operation.Sicily for more updates on what I decide to do with it. 🌟
Great question, Edward! 😊 There might be a metal scrap merchant in Sicily, but finding one can be a bit of a challenge. Most of them don’t have websites, and if you do manage to contact them, it can take 2-3 weeks to get a response! It’s one of those things that just takes a bit more patience out here. Thanks for the suggestion though-I'll keep it in mind as I continue the renovation journey!
Thank you so much, JSD! 😊 Your kind words mean a lot to me. It’s definitely a big journey, but I’m loving every step of it. I really appreciate your support and hope you enjoy following along as the villa transforms!
If you are too hot in the work trousers and worried about bug bites, take leaf out of the SAS handbook. A pair shorts with tights underneath. In the Falklands they used them as a second layer to keep warm but they work like mosquito nets too.
That’s a fantastic idea, Edward! 😊 I’ll definitely have to give the shorts with tights a try - sounds like a great solution. I recently bought some industrial-grade fly spray that farmers use to keep mosquitoes away, and it’s been helping. During the first week, I was wearing shorts and ended up with at least 40 bites! Hopefully, your suggestion will keep those pesky bugs at bay. Thanks again for the tip!
Great observation, Nevis! 😊 The walled garden does have a bit of a Moroccan vibe, doesn’t it? That’s one of the things I love about this place-it has so much character and potential. I’m excited to transform it even more while keeping that unique charm. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!
Thank you for your comment! 😊 I know those tiles have a unique charm, but they're not quite my style. That being said, I appreciate their retro vibe and can see why some people would want to keep them. I’ll definitely be replacing them, but I'll make sure to find something that still respects the villa's character. What kind of tiles would you choose if it were your renovation?
Thanks for the tip, Joe! 😊 I did manage to get myself a wheelbarrow, which has been a big help, but to be honest, I’m on a very limited budget, so I’m trying to make do with what I’ve got. There’s a lot to do, and every bit of equipment makes a difference!
@OperationSicily I understand that. I am glad you sourced a wheelbarrow to help move stuff out of the house. I wish you luck as I am hoping to purchase a home in Italy within two years. I will keep watching!!
Thanks, Joe! 😊 The wheelbarrow has definitely been a lifesaver for all the heavy lifting. Wishing you the best of luck with your own journey to buying a home in Italy-I’m sure it’ll be an incredible adventure! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions along the way, and if you’d like more updates on my progress, you can follow me on Instagram @Operation.Sicily. Appreciate your support!
Thanks for the suggestion, Karen! 😊 I’d love to hose it down, but unfortunately, there’s no water supply to the property at the moment. I’m hoping to restore the old water well in the garden soon, so I can finally get things properly cleaned up! Feel free to follow along on Instagram @Operation.Sicily for more updates as I tackle this challenge. 💧
Thanks so much for subscribing, mate! 😊 You’re spot on-it looks like the villa has been empty for at least 20 years. I found an old newspaper from 1995 inside, so it’s been abandoned for quite some time. There’s a lot of work to do, but I’m up for the challenge. Appreciate your support, and I hope you enjoy following the transformation!
@@OperationSicily Looking forward it, lovely area and scope to add more out buildings or possible chalet type accomodation. Loads of potential there bud. Cheers Mark.
Thanks, Mark! 😊 I agree, there's definitely a lot of potential with the space, and I’m already thinking about ways to make the most of it-maybe even some outbuildings or a little guest chalet in the future! It’s exciting to imagine what it could become. Appreciate your support, and I’m glad to have you along for the journey. Feel free to follow me on Instagram @Operation.Sicily for more behind-the-scenes updates! Cheers! 🏡
I am thoroughly impressed. How do you plan to keep the rodents (rats) out? The amount of feces in that house is alarming and has to be a health hazard. I will continue to follow your journey as the project has so much potential. I pray that you meet someone who can assist you with your renovations.
Thank you so much for your kind words and support! 😊 The amount of rodent droppings was definitely shocking, and I agree, it was a serious health hazard. I've been thoroughly disinfecting and cleaning the entire place to ensure it's safe. As for keeping the rats out, I'll be sealing up any entry points, making sure all food is stored properly, and I’m also considering getting some cats to help keep them away! 🐱
After you clean the place get a few cats they keep the rat away. Good luck on keeping up with your work. You need a few people that can help you with the restoration process.
Thank you, Maria! 😊 I’m planning to do most of the work myself, apart from the electrics-at least for the first fix. I might also bring in a digger with an operator due to costs, as it makes more sense than hiring the digger alone. As for the cats, I’d love to get a few to help keep the rats away, but I sometimes have to travel back to the UK for 1-2 weeks at a time, so I wouldn’t want to leave them alone. I have been feeding a few of the local stray cats though, so maybe they’ll stick around and help out! 🐱
Finding this place was quite the adventure! I’ve always wanted a project like this, and rural Sicily offers the perfect mix of challenge and beauty. It’s definitely off the beaten path, but that’s part of the charm! 😊
You're absolutely right, Suzanna! 😊 Disinfectant has become my go-to for every cleaning session-it’s the only way to make sure everything is properly sanitized. It’s been quite the task, but the results are definitely worth it.
Haha, yes, there are so many geckos inside and outside the property! 🦎 They always make me jump when I spot them. Have you noticed how quickly they dart around? Keeps me on my toes! 😂
You're absolutely right! 😊 I’ve read that they help keep the insect population down, so they’re definitely welcome guests around here. I’ll try not to jump as much when I see them darting about! 🦎
I absolutely love cats! 😊 I’ve actually been feeding a few of the local stray cats that come by. I’d love to get a couple of my own, but since I have to fly back to the UK for a week or two sometimes, I wouldn’t want to leave them behind. As for those bathroom tiles, they’re definitely not my taste either-they’ll be going for sure! 😂
That's exactly what I'm hoping! 😊 The strays have already become regular visitors, so fingers crossed they'll help keep the rodent population in check. It’s great having some furry friends around, and who knows, maybe I’ll end up adopting one of them! 🐱
😅my face has been scrunched up all the way through this video. I read in the comments you now have face mask…great . I love the photography, well not so much rodent droppings, and the way you’re letting it tell the story. How you keep on in that heat 👍🏻I’m Australian so I know what working in heat in the ‘30s is like. Is the tower a folley or can you access all the way to the top? Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much! 😊 The heat has definitely been one of the biggest challenges-it’s hard to capture just how intense it is on camera, so I can only imagine you understand it well being from Australia! I’m glad you’re enjoying the journey so far, even with all the rodent droppings-I really wanted to capture just how bad the infestation was! As for the tower, it's currently completely empty, but I have big plans for it. I’m going to build a stunning spiral staircase that will lead up to the flat roof, which I’ll be converting into a beautiful terrace with fantastic views over the countryside. It’s going to be a great spot to relax and enjoy the Sicilian landscape! 🌿🏡
Thank you so much for subscribing! 😊 And yes, you’re absolutely right about the mask. I’ve managed to get hold of a decent respirator/dust mask, and I’ve been wearing it whenever I’m tackling the deep cleaning. The amount of dust and rodent droppings made it essential!
Your place has definitely got a really unique style to it, even the front walls are very different. Can't wait to see it coming back to life.👍
Thank you so much! 😊 The unique style and character are what drew me to this villa in the first place. The front walls definitely have a charm of their own. I can’t wait to see it all restored and brought back to life-there’s still a long way to go, but it’s going to be worth it! Appreciate you following the journey!
It's such a big job you have taken on, and you're getting it well started! Keep it up, soon you will have lots of subscribers, and a house you can call a home. I have joined your cheerleading squad
Thank you so much for your support! 😊 It’s definitely a huge job, and the gardens are massive, which is going to take a lot of work too, but I love a challenge, so it's the perfect fit for me! The intense heat has also been a real challenge, especially coming from the UK-it’s tough to capture just how warm it is on camera. Your encouragement means a lot, and I’m so glad to have you on this journey with me! 🎉🏡
I just found your channel and subscribed! Good luck with it all! Shouldn't you be wearing a mask? The rat droppings are dangerous.
Thank you so much for subscribing! 😊 I really appreciate the support. And yes, you're absolutely right about the mask! I managed to find a decent respirator/dust mask and have been using it whenever I’m sweeping out the property. The amount of rat droppings has been unreal, so it’s definitely been essential.
@@OperationSicily Very good to take care of yourself!
Absolutely, safety first! 😊 This renovation journey is a marathon, not a sprint, so I need to stay healthy and protected. Thanks again for looking out-it's great to have such supportive viewers
I just subscribed, it will be fun watching your progress! Its got a lot of potential! Greetings from Naples, Florida!
Welcome to the channel, and thank you for subscribing! 😊 It’s definitely a big project with lots of potential, and I’m excited to share the journey with you. Greetings from Sicily to Naples, Florida! 🌞 Looking forward to having you along for the adventure!
First job get some outside or inside clean space with shade for your Siesta - never work in August, it's Italy. Never work after 12pm, or 2pm or 5pm, bed by 9pm. No wonder there are no jobs for the young. Yes we too have 1960s mattresses up North though, buy once last forever, yuck.
Great advice! 😊 I definitely need to create a shaded space for those siestas-working in the August heat here in Sicily has been intense, so I can see why taking breaks is a must. The local way of life is something I’m getting used to, and I’m learning to pace myself with the renovation. As for those old mattresses, I totally agree-they’ve definitely seen better days! Thanks for watching and sharing your tips! 🌞
Deserted between 3 and 5 years.
Probably gecko droppings.
Well done in taking it on.
Thanks so much for the encouragement! 😊 I’m not exactly sure how long the property has been empty, but I suspect the seller may have inherited it from a relative, so it could have been vacant for quite some time. Most of the droppings I’ve found are definitely from rats-I discovered a dead rat in the small bedroom and another one in the kitchen sink trap, which wasn’t a pleasant find at all. Rat nests were everywhere-in drawers, shoes, buckets, and even inside the back of kitchen appliances. Cleaning it all up has been a real challenge! Have you ever dealt with anything like this? Appreciate your support-it’s been quite the adventure so far! 🐀🏚️
Please wear a mask when dealing with rodent poo, especially old and dry. Excited to see your home's transformation.
Thank you so much for your concern! 😊 You're absolutely right about the mask-it's essential for dealing with the rodent droppings. I did manage to find a decent respirator/dust mask, and I've been wearing it whenever I’m cleaning up. The transformation has been challenging but also incredibly rewarding. I’m glad to have you along for the journey!
I AGREE
I just found your channel, also. Your home, and that completely walled garden, is so charming! I've not seen anything like it in Italy - maybe it's particularly Sicilian?!?
I agree w/some other comments re creating a little oasis of calm in your garden; sow some grass, plant some flowers or buy some potted plants; maybe get a hammock where you can rest and breathe fresh air! A little patch of green and beautiful color will offer some respite from the rat droppings and skittering geckos.
Thank you so much for your kind words and for joining the journey! 😊 The walled garden definitely has that unique Sicilian charm, and I can't wait to transform it into a beautiful oasis. Over time, I plan to make some big changes, including a large swimming pool, an outdoor kitchen, and outbuildings for storage and a water well pump and filtration room. The back garden will have a spacious terrace with seating and sofas for relaxing, and I’m excited about developing the roof terrace-it offers amazing views over the countryside! 🌿 The fruit trees in the back garden will be moved to the front, and I’ll be adding even more varieties to create a lush, green space. I love the idea of a hammock and adding flowers and plants for that perfect patch of green. It's going to be a great place to unwind! 🌳
New to your channel 😊...just wondering what area in Sicily your located?...i was born in Sicily and came to Canada when i was 12....
Also, what price range would this villa be in and which agent or immobiliari did you use to acquire your villa...thanks!!
Welcome to the channel, Joseph! 😊 I’m located near Trapani, on the western side of Sicily-it's such a beautiful area with a lot of charm. I’m planning to make a dedicated video soon where I'll cover all the details about the cost of the villa, the process of buying it, and the agent I used, so stay tuned for that! It’s great to connect with someone who was born in Sicily, and I hope you enjoy following my renovation journey. Feel free to ask any other questions in the meantime!
Looking forward to following your journey, Good Luck with all the work, From Australia.
Thank you so much, Vicki! 😊 I really appreciate your support all the way from Australia. It’s going to be a lot of hard work, but I’m excited to share the journey with you. If you’d like more updates along the way, feel free to follow me on Instagram @Operation.Sicily. New video coming out tomorrow as well! 🇮🇹🏡
The little gecko is cute as. Think they're called wall geckos. Those mattresses scared the bejesus out of me. I was waiting for a rat to jump out and challenge you. I did battle with rats once when we renovated an old property...the smell is beyond disgusting. I'm feeling your pain...lol.
Thanks, Joy! 😊 The little wall gecko has definitely become my unexpected renovation buddy-always popping up when I least expect it! And believe me, those mattresses had me on edge too-I was half-expecting a rat showdown myself! 😂 The smell from the rats was truly something else, but it's all part of the journey, right? Thanks for sharing your story, and I’m glad you’re following along. Let’s hope there are no more rat surprises ahead!
Grand job done! The tower is amazing, will it need glass at some stage or is it like that for ventilation and cool air? have a couple of days off now, you deserve a break. Subscribed, thanks for posting.
You really should be wearing a mask with so much rat droppings. Please be careful! Great work so far!
Salve, ti dico già, che mi sono iscritto dal tuo primo video. Dalle piccole informazioni che ho, credo che tu abbia preso questa casa, nella mia stessa provincia e da ciò, sarò lieto se tu vorrai, di darti qualche dritta, di tanto in tanto. Iniziando con una cosa frivola,...Gli arancini come li chiami tu,...Dalla punta estrema occidentale della Sicilia fino ad arrivare a Palermo, l'Arancin..o è femmina cioè Arancina. da Palermo a Catania è Maschio, = Arancino. 😁. detto questo, mettiti in contatto con l'ufficio del comune di pertinenza che si occupa dei rifiuti, saranno loro a sgombrare tutto con i loro mezzi. Per il recupero del ferro, c'è un'azienda che conosco, che in base alla tua ipotetica posizione dista da te circa 40 Km e da ciò che potresti ricavare, non prenderesti nemmeno il costo della benzina, dato che dovresti essere tu a portarglieli. per il pozzo, affidati ad un'azienda seria, che lo ripulisca e che faccia le analisi dell'acqua. Per il resto, al prossimo video.
Salve e grazie mille per il tuo supporto! 😊 Mi farebbe davvero piacere avere qualcuno con la tua conoscenza locale. Mandami un’email a hello@operationsicily.com e sarò felice di condividere la mia posizione. Sto cercando dei bei mattoni per ricostruire il pozzo e delle belle pietre per costruire i muri della terrazza del giardino sul retro. Se conosci qualche posto che potrebbe fornirmi questi materiali, sarei davvero grato!
Per quanto riguarda il pozzo, ho in programma di svuotarlo, disinfettarlo, lasciarlo riempire di nuovo e poi far analizzare l’acqua per verificare se è sicura. Le pareti del pozzo sono di terra e sembrano scavate a mano, quindi c’è un bel po’ di lavoro da fare, ma è fondamentale per me sistemarlo poiché non c’è un approvvigionamento idrico principale per la casa-il pozzo sarà la fonte principale d’acqua. Grazie ancora e spero di sentirti presto!
Penso almeno 10 anni, ma quando avrai intonaco le pareti e sistemato tutto sarà una bellissima casa ❤ per me è stato così,,I like you 💪💪
Grazie mille, Cristina! 😊 Sì, credo anche io che la casa sia stata abbandonata per almeno 10 anni, forse anche di più! Ma con un po’ di lavoro, intonaco nuovo e un po' di amore, sono sicuro che diventerà bellissima. Sono felice che ti piaccia il progetto-grazie per il tuo supporto! 🙏
Your next move should be to get several cats to move in to the house.
Doing this work alone on your own is a very huge task. A complete restructuring, may cost up to 100K€ or more if done by a company. At least you are making a big saving. Geckos kill insects and are said to bring good fortune.
You're absolutely right, Luca-it's a massive task to take on alone, but that's all part of the adventure! 😊 By doing most of the work myself, I’m saving a lot compared to hiring a company, though I will bring in some help for things like electrics and any heavy digger work. And yes, I’ve heard geckos are good luck! There are plenty of them around, so hopefully, they bring me lots of fortune as I continue this project! 🦎💪
Just subscribed and enjoying the vids, well done mate. A days work clearing the contents into a big skip.
New Windows, lick of paint and jobs a good one! Have you thought about solar for electricity (you may have mentioned it, I'm only on vid #2)
Looking forward to seeing the updates. Cheers.
Thanks so much for subscribing, mate! 😊 Glad you’re enjoying the videos so far. I agree, a big skip would make things quicker, but I’m working with a limited budget, so I’m doing it bit by bit! As for solar, it’s definitely something I’m considering, especially since there’s no mains electricity to the property right now. It would be a great way to get some off-grid power going! Appreciate your support, and if you want to follow along with more updates, feel free to check out my Instagram @Operation.Sicily. Cheers! ☀️🔧
Just started watching your channel - looking forward to the renovations
Thank you so much for joining the journey, Mercia! 😊 I'm excited to have you along as I transform this Sicilian villa. There's a lot of work ahead, but I can't wait to share every step of the renovation process with you! 🏡🔨 Stay tuned!
Yeahhh... You should be wearing a mask. God only knows what your breathing in.. and I jump 50 ft as soon as I saw the bug!!! 😳... And it definitely needs to be to sanitized!! YIKES!!
Thanks for the concern, Yolanda! 😊 You’re absolutely right-I’ve made sure to take safety seriously, especially with the disinfecting. In fact, in the next video, I’ll be thoroughly sanitizing the floors with fresh disinfectant, mopping them three times to make sure everything is as clean as possible. Believe me, I would've loved to use a vacuum cleaner, but with no electricity, I’m doing what I can! As for the bugs, they definitely keep me on my toes! 😂 Thanks for watching and following the journey!
Wow that bathroom tile ! Gotta love the old Italian motifs from the 70’s. What progress. Your casa is going to be amazing ❤
Thank you so much, Marianne! 😊 Those old Italian motifs are definitely something, aren't they? The bathroom tiles are a bit wild, but they do have a certain charm! I’m excited to keep making progress, and I can’t wait to see how the casa transforms. If you'd like to follow more updates, feel free to check out my Instagram @Operation.Sicily. New video coming out tomorrow too! 🛠️🏡
Keep up the good work! That bathroom is truly exquisite! 😂 What does the process for electricity and water look like?
Thank you so much for the encouragement, Helena! 😊 As for the bathroom, those tiles are certainly…something, aren’t they? 😂 They’re so bright and colorful, I feel like I’m stepping into a '70s disco every time I walk in! But they’ve definitely seen better days. As for electricity and water, it couldn’t be any worse-there’s currently no electricity at the property, not even a main power connection. And there’s no main water supply either. But on the plus side, there is an old water well in the back garden, so I’m planning to renovate and use that as my water source. It’s going to be a challenge, but I’m excited to make it work! ⚡💧
One wonders why was the house left in such a state, so strange. The main bedroom looked like a murder scene.
Haha, I know, right? It did look like I walked into an episode of CSI: Sicily! 😂 No idea why it was left in such a state, but I’m on a mission to turn that ‘murder scene’ into a dream bedroom. Appreciate you watching, and if you’re up for more renovation mysteries, feel free to follow along on Instagram @Operation.Sicily! 🕵️♂️🏡
Respect for what you did👌, unbelievable what a mess it was
Thank you so much, Joop! 😊 It really was a huge mess to begin with, but bit by bit, it's starting to come together. I appreciate your kind words and support-it keeps me motivated! If you'd like to follow more of the journey, feel free to check out my Instagram @Operation.Sicily. There's still a lot more to come! 🛠️
This is easy peasy. Get a dumpster and you can have the entire house emptied in just a couple hours. Put unwanted appliances out for the scrappers.
Thanks for the advice, Ellen! 😊 I wish it were that easy, but things move a bit differently out here in Sicily. Getting a dumpster sorted isn’t as straightforward, and I’m trying to do this project on a very tight budget. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for scrappers who might want to take the unwanted appliances, though! Appreciate you watching, and if you'd like to follow the journey, feel free to check out my Instagram @Operation.Sicily. 🚧
I was waiting for the sheep with limp to show up and there he was at the very back😂😂
Haha, yep, he’s always fashionably late! 😂 Thanks for watching, Phillip-maybe one day he’ll let me interview him for the channel! 🐑
I hope you don’t mind me asking but how much did this property cost you?
Thanks for your question, Heather! 😊 I’m planning to cover all the details about the cost of the property and the buying process in an upcoming video, so stay tuned! I promise it’ll be worth the wait. Thanks for following along on the journey!
Good work! Is the tower for pulling up the hot air up and out of the place?
Thank you, Sharon! 😊 The tower actually adds a lot of character to the villa, but I’m not entirely sure of its original purpose. It might have been for ventilation, as you mentioned, or simply to give the house a bit of an architectural flair. I plan to make it a key feature and maybe even convert it into something functional! Feel free to follow along on Instagram @Operation.Sicily for more updates on what I decide to do with it. 🌟
Is there a metal scrap merchant in Sicily where you can sell the metal by weight?
Great question, Edward! 😊 There might be a metal scrap merchant in Sicily, but finding one can be a bit of a challenge. Most of them don’t have websites, and if you do manage to contact them, it can take 2-3 weeks to get a response! It’s one of those things that just takes a bit more patience out here. Thanks for the suggestion though-I'll keep it in mind as I continue the renovation journey!
What an amazing man you are! Wish you all the best in your journey!
Thank you so much, JSD! 😊 Your kind words mean a lot to me. It’s definitely a big journey, but I’m loving every step of it. I really appreciate your support and hope you enjoy following along as the villa transforms!
If you are too hot in the work trousers and worried about bug bites, take leaf out of the SAS handbook. A pair shorts with tights underneath. In the Falklands they used them as a second layer to keep warm but they work like mosquito nets too.
That’s a fantastic idea, Edward! 😊 I’ll definitely have to give the shorts with tights a try - sounds like a great solution. I recently bought some industrial-grade fly spray that farmers use to keep mosquitoes away, and it’s been helping. During the first week, I was wearing shorts and ended up with at least 40 bites! Hopefully, your suggestion will keep those pesky bugs at bay. Thanks again for the tip!
Theres a moroccan feel to the walled garden
Great observation, Nevis! 😊 The walled garden does have a bit of a Moroccan vibe, doesn’t it? That’s one of the things I love about this place-it has so much character and potential. I’m excited to transform it even more while keeping that unique charm. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!
It would be a sin to remove those bathroom tiles.
Thank you for your comment! 😊 I know those tiles have a unique charm, but they're not quite my style. That being said, I appreciate their retro vibe and can see why some people would want to keep them. I’ll definitely be replacing them, but I'll make sure to find something that still respects the villa's character. What kind of tiles would you choose if it were your renovation?
Wheelbarrow, sledge hammer
Great suggestion, Nickie! 😊 I’ve actually just bought a wheelbarrow-it’s already making things a lot easier!
Yeah bro, you need a hand truck (dolly) and some power tools (battery power). You are working too hard. 😮
Thanks for the tip, Joe! 😊 I did manage to get myself a wheelbarrow, which has been a big help, but to be honest, I’m on a very limited budget, so I’m trying to make do with what I’ve got. There’s a lot to do, and every bit of equipment makes a difference!
@OperationSicily I understand that. I am glad you sourced a wheelbarrow to help move stuff out of the house. I wish you luck as I am hoping to purchase a home in Italy within two years. I will keep watching!!
Thanks, Joe! 😊 The wheelbarrow has definitely been a lifesaver for all the heavy lifting. Wishing you the best of luck with your own journey to buying a home in Italy-I’m sure it’ll be an incredible adventure! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions along the way, and if you’d like more updates on my progress, you can follow me on Instagram @Operation.Sicily. Appreciate your support!
Get the water on and hose it down
Thanks for the suggestion, Karen! 😊 I’d love to hose it down, but unfortunately, there’s no water supply to the property at the moment. I’m hoping to restore the old water well in the garden soon, so I can finally get things properly cleaned up! Feel free to follow along on Instagram @Operation.Sicily for more updates as I tackle this challenge. 💧
Subbed old boy good luck with it, how long has it been empty 20years easily I'd say.
Thanks so much for subscribing, mate! 😊 You’re spot on-it looks like the villa has been empty for at least 20 years. I found an old newspaper from 1995 inside, so it’s been abandoned for quite some time. There’s a lot of work to do, but I’m up for the challenge. Appreciate your support, and I hope you enjoy following the transformation!
@@OperationSicily Looking forward it, lovely area and scope to add more out buildings or possible chalet type accomodation.
Loads of potential there bud. Cheers Mark.
Thanks, Mark! 😊 I agree, there's definitely a lot of potential with the space, and I’m already thinking about ways to make the most of it-maybe even some outbuildings or a little guest chalet in the future! It’s exciting to imagine what it could become. Appreciate your support, and I’m glad to have you along for the journey. Feel free to follow me on Instagram @Operation.Sicily for more behind-the-scenes updates! Cheers! 🏡
A dolly/pull-cart…
A dolly/pull-cart is a fantastic idea! I might have to add that to my list. Thanks for the tip, Nickie! 🚚
I like figs
Figs are amazing, aren't they?
Arancini ❤❤❤
Ah, Arancini! 😋❤️ I can see you love them as much as I do! They’re definitely one of the best treats Sicily has to offer.
I am thoroughly impressed. How do you plan to keep the rodents (rats) out? The amount of feces in that house is alarming and has to be a health hazard. I will continue to follow your journey as the project has so much potential. I pray that you meet someone who can assist you with your renovations.
Thank you so much for your kind words and support! 😊 The amount of rodent droppings was definitely shocking, and I agree, it was a serious health hazard. I've been thoroughly disinfecting and cleaning the entire place to ensure it's safe. As for keeping the rats out, I'll be sealing up any entry points, making sure all food is stored properly, and I’m also considering getting some cats to help keep them away! 🐱
After you clean the place get a few cats they keep the rat away. Good luck on keeping up with your work. You need a few people that can help you with the restoration process.
Thank you, Maria! 😊 I’m planning to do most of the work myself, apart from the electrics-at least for the first fix. I might also bring in a digger with an operator due to costs, as it makes more sense than hiring the digger alone. As for the cats, I’d love to get a few to help keep the rats away, but I sometimes have to travel back to the UK for 1-2 weeks at a time, so I wouldn’t want to leave them alone. I have been feeding a few of the local stray cats though, so maybe they’ll stick around and help out! 🐱
How did you find this place ?…really deep rural Sicily 😳😳
Finding this place was quite the adventure! I’ve always wanted a project like this, and rural Sicily offers the perfect mix of challenge and beauty. It’s definitely off the beaten path, but that’s part of the charm! 😊
disinfectant will be your best friend for a while!
You're absolutely right, Suzanna! 😊 Disinfectant has become my go-to for every cleaning session-it’s the only way to make sure everything is properly sanitized. It’s been quite the task, but the results are definitely worth it.
Mr. Jack Gecò 😂😂
Haha, yes, there are so many geckos inside and outside the property! 🦎 They always make me jump when I spot them. Have you noticed how quickly they dart around? Keeps me on my toes! 😂
@@OperationSicily They are harmless and useful, don’t worry 😊
You're absolutely right! 😊 I’ve read that they help keep the insect population down, so they’re definitely welcome guests around here. I’ll try not to jump as much when I see them darting about! 🦎
That freaked me out
You definitely need a couple of cats. You can’t ever imagine anyone actually liking those bathroom tiles can you? Way too much for my taste.
I absolutely love cats! 😊 I’ve actually been feeding a few of the local stray cats that come by. I’d love to get a couple of my own, but since I have to fly back to the UK for a week or two sometimes, I wouldn’t want to leave them behind. As for those bathroom tiles, they’re definitely not my taste either-they’ll be going for sure! 😂
Maybe the strays will help you keep the rats down.
That's exactly what I'm hoping! 😊 The strays have already become regular visitors, so fingers crossed they'll help keep the rodent population in check. It’s great having some furry friends around, and who knows, maybe I’ll end up adopting one of them! 🐱
😅my face has been scrunched up all the way through this video. I read in the comments you now have face mask…great . I love the photography, well not so much rodent droppings, and the way you’re letting it tell the story. How you keep on in that heat 👍🏻I’m Australian so I know what working in heat in the ‘30s is like. Is the tower a folley or can you access all the way to the top? Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much! 😊 The heat has definitely been one of the biggest challenges-it’s hard to capture just how intense it is on camera, so I can only imagine you understand it well being from Australia! I’m glad you’re enjoying the journey so far, even with all the rodent droppings-I really wanted to capture just how bad the infestation was! As for the tower, it's currently completely empty, but I have big plans for it. I’m going to build a stunning spiral staircase that will lead up to the flat roof, which I’ll be converting into a beautiful terrace with fantastic views over the countryside. It’s going to be a great spot to relax and enjoy the Sicilian landscape! 🌿🏡
New subscriber over here. I can help wonder if wearing a mask might be a good idea while you tackle the deep cleaning.
Thank you so much for subscribing! 😊 And yes, you’re absolutely right about the mask. I’ve managed to get hold of a decent respirator/dust mask, and I’ve been wearing it whenever I’m tackling the deep cleaning. The amount of dust and rodent droppings made it essential!
@@OperationSicily That's great news! I'm looking forward to upcoming videos. 😄
Thanks so much! 😊 Glad to have you on board, and I can't wait to share more of the journey with you. Stay tuned for the next video!
daje!
Thanks so much! 😊 It's a lot of hard work, but comments like yours keep me motivated!