Hello everyone. This is the last of the catch up videos. From now on I will be showing actual work on the house. I think enough has been said about delays and permissions.... this video shows what some could say is 'the last straw' when I get another big quote. Time to get on with things and find a new way forward. Good news though - you will all love Dennis. He is a superstar and a great help! I hope you enjoy. As always, please feel free to ask me any questions or simply say hello from where you are in the world! Cheers, Richard. 😃
Hi! I'm Jen from St. Louis, Missouri, just started following recently and caught up with all the videos. I hope to buy a home in Italy someday (probably without so much land), so I'm watching your progress with interest. I like that you're showing the good and the frustrating, and I admire your patience and the focus on your dreams for the future. I also like seeing Le Marche, as I haven't yet explored that area of Italy. Cheers!
I’ve recently started watching your videos and love the rural property you’ve purchased and the fabulous advice you give. Just a point with the landscaping and something you may have covered elsewhere. Do you know what sort of soil is underneath the topsoil and how deep the topsoil might be? if you have clay or similar not far underneath the topsoil, it could lead to problems I guess. Maybe the landscapers take away the clay put topsoil back on after they dig and flatten out your area. Thought I would pass that on. I am not too sure about Italian soil and subsoil, but it could be worthwhile looking into.
It took my dad two years to get his projects approved, and he's italian! The way we went about it was do the absolute necessary projects first, get them done and then recalculate what is needed and the leftover budget. Less is more in some ways, and gettings the basics done is a huge relief. I think the landscaping can be done much cheaper by scaling down the project to basic priorities too. You could plant olives in a terraced fashion and they will hold soil very well for you, and reduce erosion and runoff. You could ask Denis for some help with some basic earthworks, and I'm sure you can negotiate something cheaper. Thanks for sharing your journey. I've become a fan!
Good ideas @kierancorti4630 . The fine line between listening to experts that have a vested interest in the money side and just getting on with it. The landscaping will be a see how we go and all lead from clearing the back of the house. I think we will get there...and yes, Dennis could be a good pal !😁
You have a lovely property in a stunning location. What makes it so appealing is the rolling hills. Don’t turn your lovely field into unnatural terraces-that would be tragic!!! In addition, terraces are much harder to look after and you’d also save yourself a lot of money.. Clear some flat land around the house but leave the field as it is. Gread videos-I’m thoroughly enjoying your journey!
HI @illtudjames . I wish I had not of said 'large flat area'😂 I appreciate now what people pick up on - YT rookie. The plan is to clear and fix the back of the house. The banks and tiers will all come from how that part work out. You're right - the only flat areas need to be the terrance and outside kitche area. The rest can be banks etc. Swales are a popular tip that is coming in. Whatever happens it will be because of the back of the house needs clearing and the result needs to be easy'ish to manage. Thanks for watching - it should all play out this summer, fingers crossed.😂👍
I would not change the slope of the Land whatsoever it's very beautiful as it is. Such an expense & mountain of work. All you need is a flat area around your house, the rest is charming as is.
Hi @anneofgreengables1619 . I agree. YT rookie error with the 'big flat area' comment. You are right - clear the back of the house and then a small terrace and an outside dining area (that does not have to be on the same level or even close together) and it will be perfect (ish).😁
I very much agree. It is typical to love a place and then start to landscape it with lawns that have to be mowed and flat places which look unnatural. And thinking about the amount of soil to be moved and rainstorms that ruin it all, think again.
Richard, I agree with the comments that say: Keep it simple! I had the same experience in rural Portugal. A lot was due to the initial euphoria. A bulldozer has terraced the property and changed the natural flow of water. Not a good idea. When I remember what great plans I had and how everything looked in the end - nice but different! And it wasn't the building permits that forced me to do this, but rather the fact that I no longer had enough energy to implement all the 'great' ideas and would rather enjoy everything as I got to know it and as it is right now. - Meno è meglio! - I have learned from my mistakes.😀 I'll do others for that!
Hi @gabrielar.6936 Thank you for sharing. I think you are right - the landscape will take shape from the clearing of the back of the house and it will be more banks and swales. I should have popped some images of my ideas on to help people see where I was coming from. I appreciate this one will be hard to price becuase it will evolvle once it starts. I would like a fair size terrace, an outside kitche area, and a dry house - the terrace should be next to the dry house but I am not bothered where if the kitchen are is up a level or two!😂 I hope things are well in Portugal. I watch Mr and Mrs Adventure - they seem to be preparing a lot for the fires.
@@threeacresofmarcheYes, that's right, every property owner must maintain a minimum distance from other properties to prevent the fire from spreading. - I'm no longer in Portugal. I'm the one traveling to Piedmond next month, you may remember.
While you, and all of us, are excited about seeing actual renovations get started, I think it's very important that you are showing us the red tape and headaches involved in purchasing/renovating property in a foreign country. It's this, and the budgets, that are so often left out of other videos but are the critical pieces. My own penny of a thought is that with the overall landscaping ideas you have, start with what's important now, and as you go, you may change your mind on the extent of terraces, etc., the water flow may change your mind, the planning, budget etc may change your mind but in any case, the transformation will happen more organically. I'm looking forward to seeing the house come back to life!
Thank you @maryrudkin5409 . I intend to keep showing as much of the reality of these things as I can. You are right about the landscaping - the important part is the clearing of the back of the house. The tiers, banks, swales etc will all form once that is set out and sorted. I think it will be one to figure out as it evolves rather than try over design it before it starts.👍
Vines-Dutch has some wise words. Understanding and managing water run-off is first step in your plans because you are talking about landscaping large areas around your house. I assume your landscapers will be providing this drainage and hydraulic engineering advice for stormwater and sewer management? Eg, septic systems typically have minimum set-back distances from natural water courses. Storm water may require retention tanks etc. Are they going to provide a survey for you with drawings before you commit to anything? Is the ‘cut’ soil being re-used on site to keep down costs? As a designer, I loved watching your ‘measuring’ with notebook in hand, but you need to work to a scaled drawing so that you can explore options accurately, and also explain clearly to others (even YT viewers) what you have in mind. I have owned a house with pool for 15+ years in Australia, and IMHO it is only really worth it if you are at home full time….they need regular maintenance, so maybe plan it in, but build later? It’s a beautiful spot you have. Keep it simple, and complete one project at a time so it doesn’t become too overwhelming. Thanks for your films!
Hi @markmcconnell8 . I had all the ground surveys done when going through planning. Drilling down etc. I appreciate all the comments and feedback and trust that the experts will do all that you suggest they should do. Septic tank rules apply - I have plenty of space for these things also. I wish I could erase 'large flat area' in place of banks and tiers that tie in to the clearing of the back of the house. YT rookie!😂🤦♂️
Good video; harking back to 'swales' again... they're effectively elongated, short term ponds on given contours. Key purposes are to collect and hold run-off, and in so doing allow it to percolate into the ground over a long period, giving you better overall ground hydration and stopping adverse run-off.
Thanks @ginojaco and @raymonde4272 . I have some time before starting that side of it and will put some time to the research. A concern that I had from when I first arrived. I found stagnant water in parts of the overgrowth. That brought the mosquitos in. As I cleared those out - the mosquitos went also. Could these swales cause a mosquitos issue?
@@threeacresofmarche Fair question... mosquitoes need water to breed, but they 'live' in vegetation, remove one and they can't complete their life-cycle. Water is in Swales for too brief and random a period to allow the mosquitoes to benefit. Swales aren't for water storage, rather they just retard the flow of the water, allowing it to seep into the ground over days instead of running straight off, so allowing for vegetative growth. Once you have organic matter building in your soil, it holds more water in the soil, you'll be creating a virtuous circle. 👍
Hola Richard. From experience and the fact your young, just get the necessary permission & get on with renovating the house yourself, no big ideas. We've lived through 18 years of hot summers with above ground pool, camping shower to rinse off, set in area with stunning views.... Perfect. Like you once said in one of your videos ' you don't need a lot '. The secret is keeping it simple, enjoy the life & surroundings. We live outside, have a beautiful, but simple home, comfy beds, fires for winter, and good kitchen. Your children will love the Rural life as ours still do. When we lived in our little wooden Chalet for 6 years with no water, no electricity, no telly, just a Gas fridge as our only luxury, it was bliss. Summers we would have 14 kids camping, made dens, nature rambles, BBQ's.... No technology, no telly. Those kids are all adults now, but still visit. That was a special time .... We are very comfortable now, still have a lot of land, dogs & cats, stunning home , but still through choice no Television 😂❤😂
HI @patriciapadgett4696 . Thank you for taking the time to write. The lifestyle sounds amazing. You are right, I did say you don't need much. I will keep it simple and work on the house. Setting out the land will all follow around the clearing of that large bank at the back end. Little by little and no real fixed plan. A labour of love and it will be great for me and the family. Thank you.🙌
At the risk of 'teaching Grandma to suck eggs'!..... You can always go 'natural' and work with the topography. Cross-contour swales will capture/control water flows and ease any erosion issues. They give a degree of terracing. Work with your canopy heights: tree > shrub > herb utilizing shade and ground cover for temperature amelioration and light intensity. Observe how the locals do things and what locally adapted varieties they grow. Keep it simple and err on the extensive vs intensive. Lower input in time means more time to sit back, relax and appreciate and enjoy the results 👍😊 The old, Rome wasn't built in a day, cliché is true. The very best of luck in your venture, Richard, and I hope you enjoy the journey as much as the destination 😁
Thank you @davidwilkinson333 . Good advice and I always appreciate the tips. Lots for me to research on the swales and many of you are suggesting them. The journey is really enjoyable - it has its days and moments, as I am sure you can imagine, but overall it is an amazing experience.....so far😂
Loving the channel , you should do a comparison video of your house in England. As an Italian myself I recommend never paying until the job is FULLY completed😅 .
I think I will keep the filming in England away from this.😂 Full transparancy - I sold a house with a fairly decent view to downsize and get the cash for this Italy project. No complaints really....but 50 miles is some view!😊
@@threeacresofmarche fair play you’re living the dream . I have Italian parents but was born and still live in Newport south wales . I’m in a similar situation where I’m weighing up selling my house and moving over . Your videos are definitely a push in the right direction.
Another great video taking us with you on your Italian adventure. A relaxed outlook is so important especially when navigating through the Italians way of doing things. Thankfully the weather, scenery, beaches, food, wine and people make everything worthwhile. Looking forward to your next video.
Eat the elephant one bite at a time , pool big hole in the ground you pour money into 😃 I look forward to the house renovations! Like other folks have mentioned scale back the flat areas start small see what works . Thanks and good luck ! Garden Gnome approves 🧙♂️
Hi @michaelsilva8854 I wish I could erase 'large flat area' in place of banks and tiers that tie in to the clearing of the back of the house. YT rookie!😂🤦♂
Morning Richard from a rather damp Suffolk. Getting a massive quote for the landscaping might be a blessing in disguise. Just as your plans for the house had to be revised, you might find that with a creative rethink you could still get what you ultimately ‘really’ want and need but in a much less invasive and costly way. Personally I’d concentrate on getting the house and terrace as beautiful as possible and as time passes hopefully solutions will present themselves. We’re all enjoying your journey and of course it gives us the fun of hypothetically planning what to do next! 😂👍
Hi @RebeccaHarrington-lf2kx . Good advice - thank you. I think the 'lansscaping' will all be shaped from clearing the back of the house. If that has to go back 5m or so, all the tiering, banks, run offs, swales, will be created around the outcome of that. I am always happy to recieve tips, advice and ideas. I may try move a few subjects to the community chat as I am starting to recognise familiar faces in these comments. Maybe that could be a better place for certain subjects that people are intersted in. Thank you for taking the time to watch and write.😊
@@threeacresofmarche Hi Richard, I’m sure quite a few faces keep returning on here and Instagram, me being one of them 😁👋 Setting up a community on here is a great idea- there seems to be lots of people with either experience or detailed knowledge who are very happy to impart. I guess the issue becomes how time consuming it becomes to sift through all the suggestions but you’re doing a great job of replying to people.. do you ever sleep?? 🤔😂 Thanks for making the purchase and renovation process relatable… I’ve been thinking of doing something similar for a quite a while but then have huge mental stumbling blocks on how I would actually physically do it… a community on your channel would be a great resource for people like me who have questions that they don’t want to post openly on UA-cam. Just realised this is a long reply… community chat definitely needed! 😂 Hope the moon stayed mesmerising for the duration… ☺️
Hi @RebeccaHarrington-lf2kx - as you say this, yes, I am getting a little lost in the volume of messages now. I have too many alerts which means I am missing the replied to the replies. 🤦♂️ I will try and build up the community posts for general coversation and look at other ways for those that do not want to publish on here. Over 50% watch on TV so they rarely comment but I'm sure have questions. It will settle down soon enough. No complaints this end for the hot start that it has had.😂
Hi Richard, as someone said "piano, piano". There has been some good advice in the comments. Thank you for taking us along on your journey, your dreams, but as I've said before, the simpler the better, it will evolve and you have to give way to nature sometimes, however harsh that seems. An overground swimming pool maybe the answer, which can be put away in the Autumn.
You're right @lucywattridge1946 . There are some great tips and maybe I should not have said 'large flat area'. Banks and tiers. The pool will have to wait a few years so we can get back into that another time.😂🙌
Hello, you always need to dream about things that need to be done and things you want to do. Without that dream nothing would ever get accomplished. Everything doesn’t have to get done the same week, the same month or the same year. As long as you are able to take small steps, things will get done and that house and property will be perfect. Keep up the good work. I’m enjoying the videos.
I know you might be reluctant to add any further costs to your landscaping but how about digging a pond in the lower wet area to store rain water run off? This could maybe be useful during the dry summers as a source of water for your gardening.
Hi @thebrowns1017 . I would worry about the mosquitos if I did not manage that pond very well. I think water supply should be ok and I can always adapt as I go.👍
I’d start collecting all those seeds from the trees and propagating them for boundary trees animal corridors and soil moisture retaining. Cheers. Oh, the Italian ice block you were chopping on looked delicious
Hi @KymHammond . I want to learn more about how to do that seeing as I have so much here already that I could take cuttings from. I think I need a YT 'athon on the subject....and swales...swales are a hot topic also.😁
Somebody has suggested Andrew Millsion videos to me....I will dive in and start the research. Also, I think these 'terraces' may be more of flat areas with banks. I will pop some photos in the Community chat as there are lots interested in this subject. Thanks for your help.
Piano, piano... that's the mantra to avoid frustration during projects! In the meantime, enjoy your beautiful property and the new lifestyle! Regards from Puerto Rico.
I really enjoy your style of talking us through your dilemma's.............and then get another picture of the surroundings which downplay the dilemma's again. Living outside in these surroundings, whatmore do you need when as you see the food and wine is good. Well, looking forward to the 6 months leap and hopefully might enjoy looking at tiers to be created. Continue the good work👌
Gotta say your now my fav tuber They way you deal with the endless hassles is an inspiration. And despite it all your in an incredible piece of land. 💪
@@threeacresofmarche you will get there eventually. Maybe their slow way is the best way u cycling around the beautiful town everything where everything is old n unchanged and most of Italy is like that. 💪
Hi there Ive been living in Italy for nearly 40 years and my impression is you should change geometra. Ive restored 2 houses from wrecks to (in my opinion) very attractive houses in central and southern Italy and our geometri have always been great, helpful and pretty prompt with replies quotes etc, Maybe you could even try asking around neighbours for other builders and go directly Yes language is a problem but normally youll find someones son or daughter that studies English at school and will be glad to help
Hi @susanbrookes8247 . This was suggestd a few times and I did consider it. I did like my Geometra and felt that we would get there in the end so thought best to stick with him and see it through. It is all in a good spot now, which is the main thing. 👍
Central Italy is a magical place. I am happy you are getting approvals and getting your property organized the way you want it to be. I live in Abruzzo. The landscape is gorgeous and mountains everywhere. The sea is 20 minutes away. I found my dream here. I am happy for you as well. Bravo.
Greetings from Thailand. I remember in one of your videos the heavy rains you experienced. I think once you disturb the soil, you will have an erosion problem in the rainy season, so maybe get that addressed while you are leveling your field. People have mentioned swales and they are probably the best option. Here we don’t just have rain, we have monsoons, and I cut a swale from one side of my little two acres to the other side. We also sink two inch plastic pipe in the ground to help the water penetration. BTW, I kinda like looking at the farmhouses in the distance. You’re a gentleman farmer now, embrace it ! Maybe a plunge pool would work. Anyway, slow down, make it fun. Was Rome built in a day ?
Thank you @raymondsmith4401 swales are a hot topic that I will look into. I like that house also - I think it is empty....I may take a jog over there and take a proper look. I will keep you posted on what I find!😂
Hi Richard, I have to say, your videos get better and better. I only wish I was younger and could reach for your dreams! Anyway, love the plans for the land. Love the terracing ideas; especially how you’ve thought long term for the kids and friends camping alongside the house for now and then an allotment in the future. All great plans. As for the pool, don’t worry, UA-cam can pay for that 😊 So lovely for you to have good neighbouring farmers who you can work with. So happy for you achieving your dreams for now and the future. Enjoy every moment.
@@threeacresofmarche think big! Your channel has the right balance of Reno’s and plans along with touring the area to show what’s on offer. Just remember, it was not long ago you made your first vlog saying you didn’t know anything about doing this kind of thing and here you are heading for 17k subscribers already. Keep em coming 😊
To say that this is a sharp learning curve is an understatement. It is like a rocket propelled rollercoaster of a ride! I am enjoying it though - no complaints.😊
Hi @user-yj1py2jw1i while we are at the dream stage of the process, why not have both?😂👍 Reality will sink in soon so no doubt and a bucket over the head will be all that I can afford.😂
You are most Inspiring! On a swimming pool, we bought an Intex over ground pool and you can get them 4m x 2m so pretty big. Easy to install on to a flat bit of land covered with sand. Way cheaper than a proper pool and no taxes to pay. It would be good to hear a little about how you split your time between Italy and the UK
Hi @richardlong526 . Thank you - a few have mentioned those type of pools. We shall see when the time comes. The back and forth was all calm before I started this channel - my world has changed!😂 Joking aside - it comes up a lot so I will try cover it somehow in a video soon.👍
Looking at the area you want to 'landscape', the levels involved, and soil with its stone content, I think you could be as much as an order of magnitude out in your estimate of the weight of soil / earth needing moving, certainly by four or five times. No idea about planning for swimming pools over there, but... a fair-sized pond makes a good 'natural pool'. 👍
Not only is the cost of a pool prohibitive but the taxes and maintenance would be too. Could you perhaps go small scale and build an above ground water tank about the size of an IBC so 1200 litres, put a tap on the outside with a shade net and two concrete benches facing each other inside and tell people it's a tank for maintaining the garden. On hot days you could sit in there with the water up to your shoulders keeping cool. You do have the beach not so far away for swimming.
Ah, when dreams clash with reality. Dream big, then compromise. Tents? That’s a very temporary thing, the weather tends to eat them up. Build up, then you get a new roof as well. You’re making very interesting and informative videos
Tents will be for guests, not full time. They skip the permission process, which you may have seen is not the easiest here! There is a grand plan and the dream is still in here (somewhere).😁
Hi mate, You mentioned a swimming pool. Friends of ours have a large inflatable pool. It’s about 5 meters wide & around 1.5 metres deep. They disassemble it over the cooler months. Might be an idea for later pool ideas. Love following you. Cheers Phil from down under
Thanks @philrosenthal8789 . They are popular over here. At this 'lets dream stage' where the bar / goal needs to be set - I am seeing a swimming pool like in the movies.😂
Such a dreamer,thinking hammocks & multi teared patio's under the olive trees😅 Years of hot rewarding work ahead.plan,enjoy & imagine being financially poor forever but rich in lifestyle❤
I think it is a hard one to price as it all stems from cleaing the back of the house. The rest will be trying to not make that look like a quarry dig!😂
yess ,i will definately be waiting for ur next progress on ur videos when you return ,great videos, all good one so enjoy our uk weather until you return to italy ,all it does here in uk is rain lately lol
Tell me about it @user-ww1yv8ue8p . I was back for two weeks or so...back in the mild weather now. Although - breaking news - it rained here yesterday!😆
Thank you @alancooper3982 . When that time comes, I will reach out for plenty of advice and hope to have the space for those interested to come and help!🤞😎
Wow - all those ideas about changing that lovely flow of your property was making me sad and didn't want to be a witness to it, especially when you mentioned putting in a pool!!! But then, I started to see the humor in your planning and decided that you would probably come to your senses before you did much damage (expensive!). Richard, you are a lot of fun to watch and your place is really cool and I look forward, with much anticipation, to your hard work that you will do to your house. I think you are going to realize that the more work you do yourself and not have it 'hired' out, will make your beautiful Italian paradise much more special and unique! Thank you for sharing!
Hi @conniehoffman3986 , it seems that saying 'large flat area' has upset quite a few. In reality, all the landscaping will be lead by the clearing of the back side of the house. That does need to be fixed and the rolling landscape, tiers, flat areas etc will all be designed around the outcome of that fix. Swales seem to be a top tip on here. No helpads - I promise!😂👍 Thank you for watching.
Your future plans sound great👍 just a thought, have you considered a couple of swales at the top of your land to slow down the run off? The berms are an ideal place to grow some fruit trees.
A big quote on landscaping Oh my hope you can figure out exactly what you need on the project many options seem possible Always enjoy your videos and all the things you want to accomplish Will be interesting in seeing the renovations inside Take care and see you in next video Richard ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Oooo - great tip. I like the look of those. Do you think it could do the job @andyellerby2226 . I am watching videos like Bobcat vs Excavator (I need to get out more!😂)
@@threeacresofmarcheDont buy a Bobcat,just become a good friend to Denis,i think he has.."tutti i mezzi a disposizione per farti i lavori intorno a casa.
Sensible advice. I watch all these YT in the US and they all seem to have a power tool or machine for everything.😂 I am speaking to Denis asking if he has the time to help and if we can strike a deal.👍
It must be so difficult doing this going back and forth.. but you understand the culture of how things get done and accept it.. can’t wait to see the up to date videos 😊
Hi @davidmiller-br4bu . Coming back to England is the hard part. It is working well for me at the moment but no doubt that it will not be so much fun back and forth as the years tick by. We shall see what happens re visas etc.
I got a hammock in Merida in Yucatan, Mexico. I think it was like $150. So comfortable. Never would have believed the difference a "real" hammock made. Love hearing about you using so much of the outdoor space. The Glamping and pool area sounds great. Some of those tents are really nice. Or a Yurt! We enjoyed the update this afternoon. Have a good one!
@@kimhicks4781 I was only there maybe 3 weeks and that was after 3 weeks of a place on the beach in Cancun. I thought it was hotter in the sun by the sea than in Merida. I was so excited to see all the ruins and visit Mexico other than T Shirt shops I don't think I noticed. It's hot at our place on the beach in FL too. I'm probably used to it. And my wife is Polish. She loves the heat and sun. I get bored tanning
Hi @DannyP... The tents will not be up for long - only when people stay. I think the neighbours would complain if I put them up for longer, in fariness.
@@DannyP... I follow Jose Arteaga Travels channel out of Merida. It is a popular area to visit. They are building new developments there with apartments 150K plus and a home I viewed for 400K plus that did not even have a garage. That seems to me to be a little much for this area of Mexico with it's heat. For people who like heat they can find cheaper places in Florida if they search and they do not have the risk of what another country might do. Mexico has recently used the amount of money you must have to seek residency. Most retiring people would not qualify anymore. You were just visiting. Likewise I would like to visit someday but I would not want to do it by driving. I have heard too many horror stories and for now the state department has said not to travel to Mexico.
Hi I have been living in Le Marche for the last twenty four years and feel priviledged to do so. Please can I suggest that you do not plant cypress or fir trees as they are not native to the area many more beautiful ones are ! You can put up a temporary pool above ground for very little without the need for permits.i bought a 3metre diameter one for 150 euros from Bestway and we all had great fun. Keep on enjoying the stunning views of tha Sibellini
Hi @janeavery9346 What trees are you suggesting? I am happy to look at a wide variety of plants and trees.😊Some of these trees are not even native to Italy but I see them everywhere - there are loads of them near where I am and most neighbouring houses have them. I am not planning on trying to make shapes out of my driveway for a good drone shot or people to find to Intsagram but think the odd crypress tree here or there could frame or cover things like the pilon I have mid field.😎 The pool is a pipe dream at the moment. The job list infront of it is quite large!😂
Re: pool, one of those large frame pools won’t be anything like 30k and may also not result in the Villa reclassification? You’d need to change the liner every few years but they work well.
You could be right @paulseeman6481 . Lots to research. There is a fencing rule also that needs to be considered. The pool area or the entire plot of land?! That can all wait...the job list is massive!😂
hi Richard. I must say, I´m happy to have found your channel. It´s something I´ve been thinking about doing as well. I´m already living in Italy (near the Amalfi coast, provincia Salerno) but I´m in a flat at the moment. My partner has some properties, which she thinks of developing, but still, too much in an urban area. I´m getting your frustration with the authorities. I had to get an Italian ID card, although I´m an EU citizen. 😒 i watched all the videos, but can´t remember if you mentioned it. Where did you look for properties? (currently i´m looking on idealista and immobiliare websites) I know you got yours with a local help afterwards🙂 would have more questions, but let´s do a question per video. Benvenuti, when you are back in Italy
Hi @nejcpilih I am in Italy now. I used the same sites. casa.it is ok also. Once you find the region you like then start asking for the Geometra to get involved and hopefully you will meet one that will open up that 'private sale' for you. Good luck with it all. I look forward to you next question(s) you can ask more than one at a time..😂🙌
If you are not permitted to make a living off this land, glamping seems an expensive way to go just for family. I think your plans for landscaping are very ambitious and are a major alteration to the gorgeous natural landscape you like. Certainly i would section off areas for home garden and trees, but keep it simple and reasonably priced. Who wants to be burdened with a big mortgage and the prospect of working for ever, seems to defeat the purpose of purchasing a rural property in Italy.
You're right @jeanrichardson2044 . I figures a tent that I can take down when not in use is cheaper than a big build. The glamping style is the pull for the children and their friends to come. Rough sleeping on the floor is a hard sell when trying to lure them away from cheap AirBnBs!😂
hey Richard, We are following you since day one: reason being Over a period of 22 years we bought 2 different properties in Italy, lived there permanently for over 16 years total and know exactly how you are feeling both about the plusses( good weather, fantastic sceneries, lovely food and wine), but also about the negatives( not going into boring details 😀) For family reason we moved back to our homeland Belgium 1 1/2 year ago and you know what… I still am missing and always will be missing Italy.. Despite the negative that you certainly will learn to deal with and accept( as all Italians do) it felt home man… One advice: invest ASAP in learning the language properly…and keep up the good spirit. love your regular updates as also it catapults my mind back to our period when we were doing up our properties! buona domenica..ciao Eddy
Thanks @eddyvannuten4097 . I am trying with the language but am struggling. I need to try cut a few things off and get stuck in for a month or so to break the balance on the confidence and recall side. Its no excuse but my days are a littel jam packed at the moment. Balance is needed.😊 At least you are not too far away should you want to pop down for a long weekend. I hope all is well for you back in Belgium.
the language is a challenge..the older you get the more challenging still its paying off.. We travel back to Italy on a regular base so i will contact you if we are in the area🍾👍😀
Thank you @nautilusshell4969 . I will chip away at it and give up on the 'lets get help in to get it done quickly' as I simply cannot afford the numbers that I am being presented with. There is another way I'm sure.😃
@@threeacresofmarche They may be chancing their arm with those figures and it often happens that someone local and non-professional might be able to do the job at half the price. Might you have a word with Dennis? He might know someone.....
Google earth has a contour function where you can exactly see what's going on on your land. Flattening out that area you pointed out is going to involve much much more than you can imagine.. It's a HUGE amount of soil.. ask me.. I've had something similar done too.. took days and days... with a bulldozer... But... good luck and thanks for posting !!!
Hi @Rickmaxi . I have a detailed report of the land and what is underneath from the planning permission days. They will use that data. I wish I would not have said 'large flat area'. Tiers and banks is more like it. Swales seems a common tip to look into. The patio and outside kitchen space needs to be flat - the rest will just make sure the house does not take a battering.😂
Look into making swales (how they turn desert into a forest) it can help you out with water retention and growing stuff! Lawn mowers can go on a slope…
Hey Richard, if you're looking for an awesome hammock, check out the small Norwegian company Amok. They have developed a hammock called Draumr. The special thing about it: in an Amok Draumr, you don't lie crooked like a banana parallel to the rope, but at a 90-degree angle to the rope stretched between two trees. And because you slide a specially designed mat into the Draumr, you can lie or sleep not only on your back, but also on your side or belly. Super comfortable. There is also a matching tarpaulin to protect you from the sun, rain - or falling olives 😂.
Hi @bertibear1300 . Thank you for the tip. I will try to do this in the future once I am little more organised. It would be great to have my own oil to cook and add to salads.🙌
All part of the fun. Working out what and how to do things. If you don't intend to harvest the olives, will you be planting other trees that are edible. Pools are very expensive here in NZ also. A lot of people put up portable plastic pools for the summer then empty them in the winter. A simple way to cool down and have fun in the water, and no permit of permission needed.
Hi @jeanettefrancis6473 . I plan on planting many things that are edible. That would be great to be able to eat from the garden here. All I would need to buy is the pasta and the wine!😂
Things are opening up around getting in local help @honestlythatsbull-ji9wc . While there may have been a few in troth I feel that I was only ripped off by the company that claimed to do the drainage for me that failed terribly during the bad weather (video #6). It is all a learning curve and overall an amazing place with lovely people.
Hi rich wow its a hell of an area you've got to landscape will be interested to see what you're plans are as this is my job id love to be doing it on my own property over there keep up the videos cheers Aaron
I think I may need to invest in a few decent glamping tents and have work holidays set up.....we shall see. It would be great fun to have a few people stay.
@threeacresofmarche may be a good way to get round the costs Rich as long as you're plans are OK with the local authority be a great idea there was an elderly couple on grand designs years ago who did the same thing with tradespeople and friends and got the work done at a fraction of the price good luck
Does the water run off cause standing water around your house? The house hasn't washed away yet...so maybe just a catchment pond...excavating such a huge area that has been stable...hummmm???? Good luck!
A previous video shows what happened when one of the run offs above the house collapsed. I have been advised to clear around the house - 5m from the back is the guide and starting point. All tiering will be determined from that section being cleared. There is a lovely tree back there that I wan to save - lots to plan. I wish I could erase 'large flat area' in place of banks and tiers that tie in to the clearing of the back of the house. YT rookie!😂🤦♂️
Richard look into shipping container pools when your ready, it’s probably the best option for you, the plumbing is encapsulated within the half container with lockable stairs and as it’s not a permanent structure you might get around the bureaucracy, I have seen one on a home tour video over there so their obviously available but I’ll try to find a link for you. 🇦🇺 Shell
Hi Richard, I just caught up with all of your videos! Well done on getting to where you are now. It looks like it's been a massive undertaking and you seem to have such patience. I am following you from Puerto Rico, but am moving to Northern California (Sonoma County) next month. I'm hoping to get to Florence and possibly Ancona area this fall. I look forward to your next videos and updates.
You might be able to put in an overground pool and landscape it in with decking etc, it will be cheaper and nor turn your place into a villa. For the landscaping, you might find it cheaper to buy a suitable machine and do wat you want yourself, little by little
Hi @chemicaljuice3078 . Yes - the over ground pool was mentioned...sounds like a much better idea that villa tax! The machine. That is what I am struggling to decide on - which or what to buy first. Any tips on what would keep the land in order while I adapt it would be much appreciated. I may try hire a few different ones and decide from there. 👍
@threeacresofmarche. Maybe you can learn a little more Italian and ask your friend, Dennis. Farmers always have earth moving equipment….BIG earth moving equipment (or know another farmer who does). Area farmers will appreciate a few extra dollars from such a day job because they make modest pay for their large contribution to society. Schedule it after harvest for a fair price. And by all means, invite them over for dinner when the place is ready.
Have you considered a natural pool? I'm not sure about Italian laws on this. You might end up reviving aquatic ecosystem of endemic species that disappeared ages ago. David Pagan Butler's UA-cam channel is a great start on this subject. Greetings from Cape Town.
Hi @robertmayer4415 . I did watch one or two videos on these - maybe, is the answer. The pool is way down the list of things to do. Although I could just make do and just go for it with an amazing pool.😂👍
Hi Richard, I'm so sorry your quote was double what you were hoping. I know how you feel after yesterday paying AUD 3,000 to have a tiny tiny little part replaced in my mini cooper !! I'm from Sydney, Australia and it's long been my dream to buy a small house or apartment in Spain or Italy, and you're literally living my dream, and I'm feeling jealous right now ... although not of your nasty quote for work to be done. At least being in the UK (which I also love) you're only a few hours away from Le Marche, sadly my flight is 24 hours! Anyway its late here in Sydney and I'm going to sleep to hopefully dream of the 6 months I'm planning to spend in Italy ... maybe next year (fingers crossed!!). Looking forward to your next vid 🙂
HI @lynmasterton . I feel your pain...my daughter wants that car but I am trying to softly talk her around to a car that is cheaper to service.😂 Sydney - I love that city. House swap could be a serious thing to consider. If I am not going to be here full time I would look to house swap. Keep in touch!😂
Love the videos, really inspiring! I hope to do this one day. Just depends when and where. Why not treat one of the terraces as a food forest? Not something that you have to tend to very much at all but will add an extra layer of the good life.
Hi @dandscraig . I have some lovely nearby neighbours that have set up a food forest. I am going to head over and take a look at what they have created.👍
How cold does it get there? There are other trees you could get and grow most likely that you could enjoy the fruits right off the tree besides olives that you will have to process. Pecans, apple, peaches, plums, loquats, figs(if the winters arent too harsh). If you dont get freezes, mangos, lychee and longans. I would look into an Irish Strawberry(Arbitus enudo(sp?)). Cool looking Mediterranean tree with lots of red-yellow berries. Just get one as the berries arent great, but it looks great and colorful. The Portuguese make wine from the berries.
Thank you @redcorsair14 . This list looks fantastic! It can get near zero but I don't think it freezes here. I have not seen snow but have seen photos - it tends to stay for a day or so and then all melts away. When I get to the planting and tree shopping parts I will be seeking lots of advice and tips! Thanks again.👍
Ciao, Nice plans and ideas! In regard to the roof, is it customary to go get several quotes like we do here in the States so you can compare them and to ask questions to help make a better informed decision? or is that frowned upon in italy. Or would it just add more delays in your opinion? My goodness!! I was thinking of getting a fixer-upper but now watching all that you’re going through with getting permission first this that and the other thing….it would seem like I would be better off just buying something that didn’t need work so I could enjoy working the property and working the garden/ allotment areas. I’m planning to retire there soon but at age 62 and I don’t worry too much about being capable of doing the work stuff, It’s just that I might not live long enough at the rate they take for approvals. L O L.😂 In any case, you stay positive and keep on with what you can do now. ❤ I’m sending you best wishes in hopes for a speedy turnaround with the municipality there “getting it together” so that you can get on with all the work you have ahead of you. 😊
Hi @teresamason5155 Thank you for taking the time to write. I guess I am trying to show the reality behind these bargain houses as I know people are in two minds about what they do when they buy. Finished houses look expensive, but when you weigh up what I am doing then maybe they are priced fairly.😂 It is finding the one you love, that is the hard part. The rest will just work out. Best wishes to you.
@@threeacresofmarche can you speak a little bit about the question on the quotes/appraisals in regards of getting more than one? Do you feel that that is something that is ok for or is it not ? I find that when I need work done I always get at least three so I can make comparisons and then I know what to ask for questions especially if one shows something and another quote doesn’t. Then I am able to discuss between them and make a better decision. In any case, I would like to know how that all works in Italy. If you can would you please add it in one of your videos or answer back here? Please and thank you for all you provide it is help in the understanding. Thank you so much!😊
Hi @teresamason5155 . This is a tricky one. As you must go through a Geometra for the permissions side, if they are involved in the building phases also it seems they collate the quotes and present you with the options. I am trying the alternative whereby I am getting my own quotes and will see how that works out. Time will tell.... I plan to explain the quotes and breakdown on a blog so that those looking for the details can see what I mean. There is a lot to sift through as there are pages and pages of things but people should get the gist from that. I will post on the community when I have written them up and posted them on my website.👍
Can´t you make a pond at the bottom of the field? Would help the land, there are many examples in permaculture where they have ponds. Looking forward to see the progress you have made. And for the roof, here in Spain and Portugal you can buy insulated roof panels, maybe you can install those yourself? Maybe with a pair of extra hands. They are not as pretty as tiles but they are not ugly either and a lot cheaper and way less work as they come insulated. Good luck with all the decision making. It´s all about time and money unfortunately.
Hi @brigid6609. I think the roof will be a team DIY job, yes. The swales and permaculture tips are coming in so lots to research there. All sound like good ideas.👍
I don’t know all the ins and outs of regulations in Italy, it’s a completely different animal to everywhere else we’ve lived, and we were slightly buffered from it when we lived there as renters many years ago. But we are buying there now. So I did not know that a pool made a farm house into a villa, or that the change in designation had tax implications. I’m not surprised though, Italy is all about the taxes 😂 BUT is it possible to have a swimming pond that you call just a pond where the authorities are concerned? It’s a lovely natural alternative, no chemicals, so less maintenance esp as you don’t live there? Anyway, all your plans are so very exciting Richard, and I hope you don’t have to temper the dreams too much because of the cost - we live in Bulgaria and find the price of things in Italy quite ridiculous 😂- but we can’t get skilled labour either so 🤷🏻♀️
Hi @helendennis7662 . As far as I am aware, the pool tax relates to how the pool is built. If it is a fixed, sunk in the ground, pool = tax. Above ground, or tempoarary pools....grey area. There have been plenty of comments from those with 'above ground' pools that have not had any issues. I would like to think that they could not tax a pond....but you never know!😂👍
@@threeacresofmarcheI used to pay tax on exams at University.You had to buy Carta bollata. Get some DVD films and watch in Italian to improve yout language skills.
Hey I like the mix of work&life and the fact you are getting along more and more with certain Italian way/s of doing things. I have a couple of remarks and a suggestion though: it's comune and not commune, it's gEometra and not gIometra using the Italian pronunciation of those letters 😂 and for the next videos I would strongly recommend a mic, sometimes I'm struggling hearing/folowing you, while instead getting much better the whole back noise
HI @celox20theoriginal . Thank you for the tips.👌 All the footage in these videos was captured before I made the decision to launch a channel so I was kinda running blind in what I filmed and captured. I have since bought some extra camera and sound gear so I hope that you will notice that in one or two videos time.🙌
Hey Richard, i've been enjoying your videos for quite a while now, on a recent video you said that when purchasing the property you had to offer some of your land to the neighbour to see if they wanted to purchase it. I was wondering if you could give a little more info about this, also you said that you weren't allowed to earn any income from the land, is that because you don't have the appropriate visa? As someone who is looking to buy a property in Europe this year, all the information, plus the quite shocking revelations of the costs you were quoted for enlarging your property are literally gold for someone such as myself. I've watched many a video extolling the joys of buying a property in Europe, yet none have mentioned the seemingly extortionate added improvement costs such as you have experienced. Im currently looking for ways to overcome the Brexit nonsense 90 day stay limit, it is such a pain, thank you for putting out the content that you are, its greatly appreciated by those of us who are hoping to live the dream that you currently seem to be enjoying. Many thanks, Rob
Hi @donkeykong7777 . I plan to blog the details of the quotes on the website so sign up for the newsletter and I will try get some time aside to write up the detail on these quotes. It is interesting but in honesty I think I approached it all in the wrong way. I am making a 'detail' video of the stages of the planning and where it went well versus where it was rejected and why....lots to do Anyway - the land is actually 6 or 7 parcels of land bundles together. Each section is numbered and mapped. The house section was no issue but the other sections are listed as farmland. My impression was that farmers must have a licence in order to trade / profit from farming. It was made clear that I could not just arrive and start being a full trading farmer. As such, the land had to be offered....but I could choose what the price of that land was. All land is taxed so saying it is worth 1 euro is fine, but no doubt the neighbours would have bought it for 1 euro. I took advice on the split between how much the house part was worth and what the 'value' of the land should be. I will blog this one also as I cannot recall the split of the 65k (euros) I paid in total.👍
Just to add, it is an old Italian law the farm land must be offered to neighbours first at the same price as offered by the proposed buyer. This is to try and keep land parcels from being too fragmented.
I'd check how much soil you have. The last thing you want is to be trying to dig out the bed rock from the field. Terreces with swales to capture and hold back rain water needs a bit of thinking. Ckeck out swales and water retention on youtube....
Yep a fab video again as I echo all the comments. I would love to do a similar thing but find I can only work on Sovereign Soil so it limits the traveling. Plus I'd be making your field into a nice airstrip which I'm sure your neighbours would love 😂 Can I ask what you do for a job that gives you this flexibility?
On my first meeting where it was suggested that I put plans in for everyting...I joked about a helipad. They said, put what you want on the plans and decide later.😂 I work for a software company so most of my work is over Teams these days.👍
@@threeacresofmarche Ahh you work in the same field as me then, mines Central Gov mind atm hence the "UK soil only me laddy". I thought there was a symmetry in the madness I was watching. Loving the progression by the way, always great when one of yours pops up in the Suggestions box.
Love that we see the true reality - life is about phone calls, ideas, can't-be-done, can-be-done, can't-be-arsed, can find the energy etc etc. Especially in Italy, things change and die, suddenly be allowed. Caveats, costs - all the basics of actually doing something, rather than tell a story of perfection. Rich - get yourself a cheap laser measurer and a reflective plate. Stick it on a sharpened post - ping it. Stick it in another place, ping it. Save you hours of pencil and paper:-)
Thanks @oov55 . Is that for measuring? I think the 'big dig' will be make-it-up-as-we go. Start at the back of the house and make it look good from there. I have just spend a fair few hours...with wine in hand...staring at it wondering where and how to start. 😂
Yes for measuring longer distances than say 30 feet. You get a budget Laser measuring gun and a reddish plate nailed to a stick - which pings the beam back - google it. Works well for big spaces@@threeacresofmarche
is there a professional gov't or univ. soil conservation service there in Italy in your region, like the US's Soil and Conservation Service which has its hand in everything farmers do? Those sunflowers are being harvested for the seed's oil, right?
So, what was the quote on the roof? Those of us about to go through this would like to know what we are in for....i have seen quotes up to 100k for an average sized house. Scary numbers.
Hi @jacobseal . I will write up a few blogs on the costs of the quotes that I have had and show them. I am concious of naming companies and getting into trouble that way so will share as much as I can without causing trouble. Keep an eye on the website I am building. I plan to spend some time over the next two weeks writing some thing up.👍
Hello everyone. This is the last of the catch up videos. From now on I will be showing actual work on the house. I think enough has been said about delays and permissions.... this video shows what some could say is 'the last straw' when I get another big quote. Time to get on with things and find a new way forward.
Good news though - you will all love Dennis. He is a superstar and a great help!
I hope you enjoy. As always, please feel free to ask me any questions or simply say hello from where you are in the world!
Cheers, Richard. 😃
Love your videos!
Hi! I'm Jen from St. Louis, Missouri, just started following recently and caught up with all the videos. I hope to buy a home in Italy someday (probably without so much land), so I'm watching your progress with interest. I like that you're showing the good and the frustrating, and I admire your patience and the focus on your dreams for the future. I also like seeing Le Marche, as I haven't yet explored that area of Italy. Cheers!
Looks like a beautiful day out in the field.
I’ve recently started watching your videos and love the rural property you’ve purchased and the fabulous advice you give. Just a point with the landscaping and something you may have covered elsewhere. Do you know what sort of soil is underneath the topsoil and how deep the topsoil might be? if you have clay or similar not far underneath the topsoil, it could lead to problems I guess. Maybe the landscapers take away the clay put topsoil back on after they dig and flatten out your area. Thought I would pass that on. I am not too sure about Italian soil and subsoil, but it could be worthwhile looking into.
It took my dad two years to get his projects approved, and he's italian! The way we went about it was do the absolute necessary projects first, get them done and then recalculate what is needed and the leftover budget. Less is more in some ways, and gettings the basics done is a huge relief. I think the landscaping can be done much cheaper by scaling down the project to basic priorities too.
You could plant olives in a terraced fashion and they will hold soil very well for you, and reduce erosion and runoff. You could ask Denis for some help with some basic earthworks, and I'm sure you can negotiate something cheaper. Thanks for sharing your journey. I've become a fan!
Good ideas @kierancorti4630 . The fine line between listening to experts that have a vested interest in the money side and just getting on with it.
The landscaping will be a see how we go and all lead from clearing the back of the house. I think we will get there...and yes, Dennis could be a good pal !😁
@@threeacresofmarche creating swales might be a good option to stop the rain washing down into the yard
Natural swimming pond. Like a little dam or lake
Your doing a fine job. Love your videos. And we’re all living vicariously through you, so jealous but so genuinely happy for you.
Hi @user-px3ks9ff1c . Thank you.🙌
You have a lovely property in a stunning location. What makes it so appealing is the rolling hills. Don’t turn your lovely field into unnatural terraces-that would be tragic!!!
In addition, terraces are much harder to look after and you’d also save yourself a lot of money..
Clear some flat land around the house but leave the field as it is.
Gread videos-I’m thoroughly enjoying your journey!
HI @illtudjames . I wish I had not of said 'large flat area'😂 I appreciate now what people pick up on - YT rookie.
The plan is to clear and fix the back of the house. The banks and tiers will all come from how that part work out. You're right - the only flat areas need to be the terrance and outside kitche area. The rest can be banks etc.
Swales are a popular tip that is coming in. Whatever happens it will be because of the back of the house needs clearing and the result needs to be easy'ish to manage.
Thanks for watching - it should all play out this summer, fingers crossed.😂👍
I would not change the slope of the Land whatsoever it's very beautiful as it is. Such an expense & mountain of work. All you need is a flat area around your house, the rest is charming as is.
Hi @anneofgreengables1619 . I agree. YT rookie error with the 'big flat area' comment. You are right - clear the back of the house and then a small terrace and an outside dining area (that does not have to be on the same level or even close together) and it will be perfect (ish).😁
I very much agree. It is typical to love a place and then start to landscape it with lawns that have to be mowed and flat places which look unnatural. And thinking about the amount of soil to be moved and rainstorms that ruin it all, think again.
Just add olive and fruit trees to the field.
Prosciutto with the figs from your trees, a glass of vino and an Italian sunset
The absolute perfect combo ❤
That sounds like a great end of video idea for me to capture for those that hang around that long to watch.😂🙌
Richard, I agree with the comments that say: Keep it simple! I had the same experience in rural Portugal. A lot was due to the initial euphoria. A bulldozer has terraced the property and changed the natural flow of water. Not a good idea. When I remember what great plans I had and how everything looked in the end - nice but different! And it wasn't the building permits that forced me to do this, but rather the fact that I no longer had enough energy to implement all the 'great' ideas and would rather enjoy everything as I got to know it and as it is right now. - Meno è meglio! - I have learned from my mistakes.😀 I'll do others for that!
Hi @gabrielar.6936
Thank you for sharing. I think you are right - the landscape will take shape from the clearing of the back of the house and it will be more banks and swales. I should have popped some images of my ideas on to help people see where I was coming from.
I appreciate this one will be hard to price becuase it will evolvle once it starts. I would like a fair size terrace, an outside kitche area, and a dry house - the terrace should be next to the dry house but I am not bothered where if the kitchen are is up a level or two!😂
I hope things are well in Portugal. I watch Mr and Mrs Adventure - they seem to be preparing a lot for the fires.
@@threeacresofmarcheYes, that's right, every property owner must maintain a minimum distance from other properties to prevent the fire from spreading. - I'm no longer in Portugal. I'm the one traveling to Piedmond next month, you may remember.
Hi - yes I do remeber - apologies. I am starting to remember the regulars in the comments. Safe trip.😎
While you, and all of us, are excited about seeing actual renovations get started, I think it's very important that you are showing us the red tape and headaches involved in purchasing/renovating property in a foreign country. It's this, and the budgets, that are so often left out of other videos but are the critical pieces. My own penny of a thought is that with the overall landscaping ideas you have, start with what's important now, and as you go, you may change your mind on the extent of terraces, etc., the water flow may change your mind, the planning, budget etc may change your mind but in any case, the transformation will happen more organically. I'm looking forward to seeing the house come back to life!
Thank you @maryrudkin5409 . I intend to keep showing as much of the reality of these things as I can. You are right about the landscaping - the important part is the clearing of the back of the house. The tiers, banks, swales etc will all form once that is set out and sorted. I think it will be one to figure out as it evolves rather than try over design it before it starts.👍
Vines-Dutch has some wise words. Understanding and managing water run-off is first step in your plans because you are talking about landscaping large areas around your house. I assume your landscapers will be providing this drainage and hydraulic engineering advice for stormwater and sewer management? Eg, septic systems typically have minimum set-back distances from natural water courses. Storm water may require retention tanks etc. Are they going to provide a survey for you with drawings before you commit to anything? Is the ‘cut’ soil being re-used on site to keep down costs? As a designer, I loved watching your ‘measuring’ with notebook in hand, but you need to work to a scaled drawing so that you can explore options accurately, and also explain clearly to others (even YT viewers) what you have in mind. I have owned a house with pool for 15+ years in Australia, and IMHO it is only really worth it if you are at home full time….they need regular maintenance, so maybe plan it in, but build later? It’s a beautiful spot you have. Keep it simple, and complete one project at a time so it doesn’t become too overwhelming. Thanks for your films!
Hi @markmcconnell8 . I had all the ground surveys done when going through planning. Drilling down etc.
I appreciate all the comments and feedback and trust that the experts will do all that you suggest they should do. Septic tank rules apply - I have plenty of space for these things also.
I wish I could erase 'large flat area' in place of banks and tiers that tie in to the clearing of the back of the house. YT rookie!😂🤦♂️
@@threeacresofmarche All good. 😀…hope springtime brings more approvals for you to move forward.
An Italian called Dennis. Excellent. Looking forward to watching your story in the present.
I was as surprised as you @MairiPerrett😂. His brother was in the other machine. I did not catch his name.
Good video; harking back to 'swales' again... they're effectively elongated, short term ponds on given contours. Key purposes are to collect and hold run-off, and in so doing allow it to percolate into the ground over a long period, giving you better overall ground hydration and stopping adverse run-off.
Yes I was going to suggest them too as a means of slowing down the water and keeping it in the land rather than pushing the land downhill.
Thanks @ginojaco and @raymonde4272 . I have some time before starting that side of it and will put some time to the research.
A concern that I had from when I first arrived. I found stagnant water in parts of the overgrowth. That brought the mosquitos in. As I cleared those out - the mosquitos went also. Could these swales cause a mosquitos issue?
@@threeacresofmarche Fair question... mosquitoes need water to breed, but they 'live' in vegetation, remove one and they can't complete their life-cycle. Water is in Swales for too brief and random a period to allow the mosquitoes to benefit. Swales aren't for water storage, rather they just retard the flow of the water, allowing it to seep into the ground over days instead of running straight off, so allowing for vegetative growth. Once you have organic matter building in your soil, it holds more water in the soil, you'll be creating a virtuous circle. 👍
Id suggest Andrew Millisons videos, he explains them very well @@threeacresofmarche
Thank you. I just subscribed so will catch up on a few. I recognise the desert thumnail that has had a cool 8.5m views! Wow.
Hola Richard. From experience and the fact your young, just get the necessary permission & get on with renovating the house yourself, no big ideas. We've lived through 18 years of hot summers with above ground pool, camping shower to rinse off, set in area with stunning views.... Perfect. Like you once said in one of your videos ' you don't need a lot '. The secret is keeping it simple, enjoy the life & surroundings. We live outside, have a beautiful, but simple home, comfy beds, fires for winter, and good kitchen. Your children will love the Rural life as ours still do. When we lived in our little wooden Chalet for 6 years with no water, no electricity, no telly, just a Gas fridge as our only luxury, it was bliss. Summers we would have 14 kids camping, made dens, nature rambles, BBQ's.... No technology, no telly. Those kids are all adults now, but still visit. That was a special time .... We are very comfortable now, still have a lot of land, dogs & cats, stunning home , but still through choice no Television 😂❤😂
HI @patriciapadgett4696 . Thank you for taking the time to write. The lifestyle sounds amazing. You are right, I did say you don't need much. I will keep it simple and work on the house. Setting out the land will all follow around the clearing of that large bank at the back end. Little by little and no real fixed plan. A labour of love and it will be great for me and the family. Thank you.🙌
At the risk of 'teaching Grandma to suck eggs'!.....
You can always go 'natural' and work with the topography. Cross-contour swales will capture/control water flows and ease any erosion issues. They give a degree of terracing.
Work with your canopy heights: tree > shrub > herb utilizing shade and ground cover for temperature amelioration and light intensity.
Observe how the locals do things and what locally adapted varieties they grow.
Keep it simple and err on the extensive vs intensive. Lower input in time means more time to sit back, relax and appreciate and enjoy the results 👍😊 The old, Rome wasn't built in a day, cliché is true.
The very best of luck in your venture, Richard, and I hope you enjoy the journey as much as the destination 😁
Thank you @davidwilkinson333 . Good advice and I always appreciate the tips. Lots for me to research on the swales and many of you are suggesting them.
The journey is really enjoyable - it has its days and moments, as I am sure you can imagine, but overall it is an amazing experience.....so far😂
Loving the channel , you should do a comparison video of your house in England. As an Italian myself I recommend never paying until the job is FULLY completed😅 .
I think I will keep the filming in England away from this.😂
Full transparancy - I sold a house with a fairly decent view to downsize and get the cash for this Italy project. No complaints really....but 50 miles is some view!😊
@@threeacresofmarche fair play you’re living the dream . I have Italian parents but was born and still live in Newport south wales . I’m in a similar situation where I’m weighing up selling my house and moving over . Your videos are definitely a push in the right direction.
Another great video taking us with you on your Italian adventure. A relaxed outlook is so important especially when navigating through the Italians way of doing things. Thankfully the weather, scenery, beaches, food, wine and people make everything worthwhile. Looking forward to your next video.
I came here to relax so this hard work better pay off !😂😎
Haha, have you actually done any hard work yet ? (only teasing)@@threeacresofmarche
I quite often find myself still sat outside 2 hours into a 20 minute break.😁
Eat the elephant one bite at a time , pool big hole in the ground you pour money into 😃 I look forward to the house renovations! Like other folks have mentioned scale back the flat areas start small see what works . Thanks and good luck ! Garden Gnome approves 🧙♂️
Hi @michaelsilva8854
I wish I could erase 'large flat area' in place of banks and tiers that tie in to the clearing of the back of the house. YT rookie!😂🤦♂
Your two olive trees is perfect for an hammock or nice wooden bench 🌳🌳
A nice bench or place to relax for sure.😊
This story is amazing.
I love watching these. Keep up the great work mate!
Thanks for watching @evanjames93
Morning Richard from a rather damp Suffolk. Getting a massive quote for the landscaping might be a blessing in disguise. Just as your plans for the house had to be revised, you might find that with a creative rethink you could still get what you ultimately ‘really’ want and need but in a much less invasive and costly way. Personally I’d concentrate on getting the house and terrace as beautiful as possible and as time passes hopefully solutions will present themselves.
We’re all enjoying your journey and of course it gives us the fun of hypothetically planning what to do next! 😂👍
Hi @RebeccaHarrington-lf2kx . Good advice - thank you. I think the 'lansscaping' will all be shaped from clearing the back of the house. If that has to go back 5m or so, all the tiering, banks, run offs, swales, will be created around the outcome of that.
I am always happy to recieve tips, advice and ideas.
I may try move a few subjects to the community chat as I am starting to recognise familiar faces in these comments. Maybe that could be a better place for certain subjects that people are intersted in. Thank you for taking the time to watch and write.😊
@@threeacresofmarche Hi Richard, I’m sure quite a few faces keep returning on here and Instagram, me being one of them 😁👋
Setting up a community on here is a great idea- there seems to be lots of people with either experience or detailed knowledge who are very happy to impart. I guess the issue becomes how time consuming it becomes to sift through all the suggestions but you’re doing a great job of replying to people.. do you ever sleep?? 🤔😂
Thanks for making the purchase and renovation process relatable… I’ve been thinking of doing something similar for a quite a while but then have huge mental stumbling blocks on how I would actually physically do it… a community on your channel would be a great resource for people like me who have questions that they don’t want to post openly on UA-cam.
Just realised this is a long reply… community chat definitely needed! 😂
Hope the moon stayed mesmerising for the duration… ☺️
Hi @RebeccaHarrington-lf2kx - as you say this, yes, I am getting a little lost in the volume of messages now. I have too many alerts which means I am missing the replied to the replies. 🤦♂️
I will try and build up the community posts for general coversation and look at other ways for those that do not want to publish on here. Over 50% watch on TV so they rarely comment but I'm sure have questions.
It will settle down soon enough. No complaints this end for the hot start that it has had.😂
Hi Richard, as someone said "piano, piano".
There has been some good advice in the comments.
Thank you for taking us along on your journey, your dreams, but as I've said before, the simpler the better, it will evolve and you have to give way to nature sometimes, however harsh that seems.
An overground swimming pool maybe the answer, which can be put away in the Autumn.
You're right @lucywattridge1946 . There are some great tips and maybe I should not have said 'large flat area'. Banks and tiers. The pool will have to wait a few years so we can get back into that another time.😂🙌
Hello, you always need to dream about things that need to be done and things you want to do. Without that dream nothing would ever get accomplished. Everything doesn’t have to get done the same week, the same month or the same year. As long as you are able to take small steps, things will get done and that house and property will be perfect. Keep up the good work. I’m enjoying the videos.
Sound advice. Thank you @dono9879
I know you might be reluctant to add any further costs to your landscaping but how about digging a pond in the lower wet area to store rain water run off? This could maybe be useful during the dry summers as a source of water for your gardening.
Hi @thebrowns1017 . I would worry about the mosquitos if I did not manage that pond very well. I think water supply should be ok and I can always adapt as I go.👍
I’d start collecting all those seeds from the trees and propagating them for boundary trees animal corridors and soil moisture retaining. Cheers.
Oh, the Italian ice block you were chopping on looked delicious
Hi @KymHammond . I want to learn more about how to do that seeing as I have so much here already that I could take cuttings from. I think I need a YT 'athon on the subject....and swales...swales are a hot topic also.😁
@@threeacresofmarche That sound great! I presume you would create the water catchments on the edge of each of the terraces you are planning?
Somebody has suggested Andrew Millsion videos to me....I will dive in and start the research. Also, I think these 'terraces' may be more of flat areas with banks. I will pop some photos in the Community chat as there are lots interested in this subject. Thanks for your help.
Piano, piano... that's the mantra to avoid frustration during projects! In the meantime, enjoy your beautiful property and the new lifestyle! Regards from Puerto Rico.
As I get more settled I am feeling that the piano, piano is the way to approach most things in life now. @lillirod😂
I really enjoy your style of talking us through your dilemma's.............and then get another picture of the surroundings which downplay the dilemma's again. Living outside in these surroundings, whatmore do you need when as you see the food and wine is good. Well, looking forward to the 6 months leap and hopefully might enjoy looking at tiers to be created. Continue the good work👌
Thank you @MarcoLangeveld🍷
Gotta say your now my fav tuber They way you deal with the endless hassles is an inspiration.
And despite it all your in an incredible piece of land.
💪
I cry myself to sleep covered in pages of quotes....I just cut that out. @tkffin😂
@@threeacresofmarche you will get there eventually.
Maybe their slow way is the best way u cycling around the beautiful town everything where everything is old n unchanged and most of Italy is like that. 💪
Hi there Ive been living in Italy for nearly 40 years and my impression is you should change geometra. Ive restored 2 houses from wrecks to (in my opinion) very attractive houses in central and southern Italy and our geometri have always been great, helpful and pretty prompt with replies quotes etc, Maybe you could even try asking around neighbours for other builders and go directly Yes language is a problem but normally youll find someones son or daughter that studies English at school and will be glad to help
Hi @susanbrookes8247 . This was suggestd a few times and I did consider it. I did like my Geometra and felt that we would get there in the end so thought best to stick with him and see it through. It is all in a good spot now, which is the main thing. 👍
Central Italy is a magical place. I am happy you are getting approvals and getting your property organized the way you want it to be. I live in Abruzzo. The landscape is gorgeous and mountains everywhere. The sea is 20 minutes away. I found my dream here. I am happy for you as well. Bravo.
Hi @kdclothes . That is a beautiful region - your spot sounds ideal.
Greetings from Thailand. I remember in one of your videos the heavy rains you experienced. I think once you disturb the soil, you will have an erosion problem in the rainy season, so maybe get that addressed while you are leveling your field. People have mentioned swales and they are probably the best option. Here we don’t just have rain, we have monsoons, and
I cut a swale from one side of my little two acres to the other side. We also sink two inch plastic pipe in the ground to help the water penetration. BTW, I kinda like looking at the farmhouses in the distance. You’re a gentleman farmer now, embrace it ! Maybe a plunge pool would work. Anyway, slow down, make it fun. Was Rome built in a day ?
Thank you @raymondsmith4401 swales are a hot topic that I will look into.
I like that house also - I think it is empty....I may take a jog over there and take a proper look. I will keep you posted on what I find!😂
Hi Richard, I have to say, your videos get better and better. I only wish I was younger and could reach for your dreams! Anyway, love the plans for the land. Love the terracing ideas; especially how you’ve thought long term for the kids and friends camping alongside the house for now and then an allotment in the future. All great plans. As for the pool, don’t worry, UA-cam can pay for that 😊 So lovely for you to have good neighbouring farmers who you can work with. So happy for you achieving your dreams for now and the future. Enjoy every moment.
Hi @suewellings4500 . YT should pay a little soon, but only a lucky few make good money out of it. We shall see...its good to dream, right?! 😂
@@threeacresofmarche think big! Your channel has the right balance of Reno’s and plans along with touring the area to show what’s on offer. Just remember, it was not long ago you made your first vlog saying you didn’t know anything about doing this kind of thing and here you are heading for 17k subscribers already. Keep em coming 😊
To say that this is a sharp learning curve is an understatement. It is like a rocket propelled rollercoaster of a ride! I am enjoying it though - no complaints.😊
I would never think of a pool there sounds nice I put a hot tub in that be nice for relaxing with a glass of wine in the tub overlooking the land
Hi @user-yj1py2jw1i while we are at the dream stage of the process, why not have both?😂👍
Reality will sink in soon so no doubt and a bucket over the head will be all that I can afford.😂
It would be a really nice place when it's done. You're relaxing by the pool glass of white wine 🍷 in hand
You should look into swales for the field. That should lessen the landslides when you get trees and brushes planted and growing.
Thank you @Westbase6432 . Swales are a hot topic - lots have suggested these, so thank you. I am looking into how and where I can set them up etc.🙌
You are most Inspiring! On a swimming pool, we bought an Intex over ground pool and you can get them 4m x 2m so pretty big. Easy to install on to a flat bit of land covered with sand. Way cheaper than a proper pool and no taxes to pay. It would be good to hear a little about how you split your time between Italy and the UK
Hi @richardlong526 . Thank you - a few have mentioned those type of pools. We shall see when the time comes.
The back and forth was all calm before I started this channel - my world has changed!😂
Joking aside - it comes up a lot so I will try cover it somehow in a video soon.👍
Get an above ground or blow up pool. Lol kids will love it.
This video was again very helpful for us .
And Nice to watch of course.
Looking forward to a new one ( tomorrow I guess?):)
I wish I could pack in my job and do this full time🙌
Great to see how you manage it all and how you perform. Beautiful images. I'm already waiting for the next one. Greetings from the Netherlands 👋🏻
Thank you for watching @whamp6844
Looking at the area you want to 'landscape', the levels involved, and soil with its stone content, I think you could be as much as an order of magnitude out in your estimate of the weight of soil / earth needing moving, certainly by four or five times. No idea about planning for swimming pools over there, but... a fair-sized pond makes a good 'natural pool'. 👍
Not only is the cost of a pool prohibitive but the taxes and maintenance would be too. Could you perhaps go small scale and build an above ground water tank about the size of an IBC so 1200 litres, put a tap on the outside with a shade net and two concrete benches facing each other inside and tell people it's a tank for maintaining the garden. On hot days you could sit in there with the water up to your shoulders keeping cool.
You do have the beach not so far away for swimming.
Good size hot tub with a patio ??
😂 I like your thinking @raymonde4272
Ah, when dreams clash with reality. Dream big, then compromise. Tents? That’s a very temporary thing, the weather tends to eat them up. Build up, then you get a new roof as well. You’re making very interesting and informative videos
Tents will be for guests, not full time. They skip the permission process, which you may have seen is not the easiest here! There is a grand plan and the dream is still in here (somewhere).😁
This is what I’m hunting for.
I really enjoy your videos! You have a beautiful piece of heaven! It must be hard to leave, from time to time!
Hi @sunshinecindy570 . With so much to do the break is sometimes nice. As it gets better I am sure the pull to stay longer will grow stronger.😁
Hi mate,
You mentioned a swimming pool. Friends of ours have a large inflatable pool. It’s about 5 meters wide & around 1.5 metres deep. They disassemble it over the cooler months. Might be an idea for later pool ideas.
Love following you.
Cheers Phil from down under
Thanks @philrosenthal8789 . They are popular over here. At this 'lets dream stage' where the bar / goal needs to be set - I am seeing a swimming pool like in the movies.😂
Such a dreamer,thinking hammocks & multi teared patio's under the olive trees😅 Years of hot rewarding work ahead.plan,enjoy & imagine being financially poor forever but rich in lifestyle❤
That is the balance I suppose. Big dreams followed by the reality check.😂🙌
Great video as always! Landscaping quotes are always much more than we expect :D
I think it is a hard one to price as it all stems from cleaing the back of the house. The rest will be trying to not make that look like a quarry dig!😂
yess ,i will definately be waiting for ur next progress on ur videos when you return ,great videos, all good one so enjoy our uk weather until you return to italy ,all it does here in uk is rain lately lol
Tell me about it @user-ww1yv8ue8p . I was back for two weeks or so...back in the mild weather now. Although - breaking news - it rained here yesterday!😆
oh and get plenty of perrenials in, asparagus, artichokes, fig/lemon/peach trees etc etc
Thank you @alancooper3982 . When that time comes, I will reach out for plenty of advice and hope to have the space for those interested to come and help!🤞😎
Wow - all those ideas about changing that lovely flow of your property was making me sad and didn't want to be a witness to it, especially when you mentioned putting in a pool!!! But then, I started to see the humor in your planning and decided that you would probably come to your senses before you did much damage (expensive!).
Richard, you are a lot of fun to watch and your place is really cool and I look forward, with much anticipation, to your hard work that you will do to your house. I think you are going to realize that the more work you do yourself and not have it 'hired' out, will make your beautiful Italian paradise much more special and unique!
Thank you for sharing!
Hi @conniehoffman3986 , it seems that saying 'large flat area' has upset quite a few. In reality, all the landscaping will be lead by the clearing of the back side of the house. That does need to be fixed and the rolling landscape, tiers, flat areas etc will all be designed around the outcome of that fix. Swales seem to be a top tip on here. No helpads - I promise!😂👍 Thank you for watching.
Your future plans sound great👍 just a thought, have you considered a couple of swales at the top of your land to slow down the run off? The berms are an ideal place to grow some fruit trees.
Hi @shar71on . A few are mentioning swales. I have some research to do. Thanks for the tips.👍
A big quote on landscaping
Oh my hope you can figure out exactly what you need on the project many options seem possible
Always enjoy your videos and all the things you want to accomplish
Will be interesting in seeing the renovations inside
Take care and see you in next video Richard
❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you @marilynmeade2286
@threeacresofmarche your welcome
Thank you Richard for the heart ❤️
Hâte de voir la suite, nous serons là ! 🔥🔥🔥♥️😊🇧🇪
Hi @delwichedanielle3999🙌
Cant wait for the next episode--Thank you for documenting your experience, and sharing it with the world.
Looking forward to real time
Buy a Bobcat and do the landscaping yourself and it's very useful for other projects. Then sell it when you're done with it.
Oooo - great tip. I like the look of those. Do you think it could do the job @andyellerby2226 . I am watching videos like Bobcat vs Excavator (I need to get out more!😂)
@@threeacresofmarcheDont buy a Bobcat,just become a good friend to Denis,i think he has.."tutti i mezzi a disposizione per farti i lavori intorno a casa.
Sensible advice. I watch all these YT in the US and they all seem to have a power tool or machine for everything.😂 I am speaking to Denis asking if he has the time to help and if we can strike a deal.👍
It must be so difficult doing this going back and forth.. but you understand the culture of how things get done and accept it.. can’t wait to see the up to date videos 😊
Hi @davidmiller-br4bu . Coming back to England is the hard part. It is working well for me at the moment but no doubt that it will not be so much fun back and forth as the years tick by. We shall see what happens re visas etc.
I got a hammock in Merida in Yucatan, Mexico. I think it was like $150. So comfortable. Never would have believed the difference a "real" hammock made. Love hearing about you using so much of the outdoor space. The Glamping and pool area sounds great. Some of those tents are really nice. Or a Yurt! We enjoyed the update this afternoon. Have a good one!
@Danny P. How do you handle the heat in Merida. It boils there..
@@kimhicks4781 I was only there maybe 3 weeks and that was after 3 weeks of a place on the beach in Cancun. I thought it was hotter in the sun by the sea than in Merida. I was so excited to see all the ruins and visit Mexico other than T Shirt shops I don't think I noticed. It's hot at our place on the beach in FL too. I'm probably used to it. And my wife is Polish. She loves the heat and sun. I get bored tanning
Hi @DannyP... The tents will not be up for long - only when people stay. I think the neighbours would complain if I put them up for longer, in fariness.
@@DannyP... I follow Jose Arteaga Travels channel out of Merida. It is a popular area to visit. They are building new developments there with apartments 150K plus and a home I viewed for 400K plus that did not even have a garage. That seems to me to be a little much for this area of Mexico with it's heat. For people who like heat they can find cheaper places in Florida if they search and they do not have the risk of what another country might do. Mexico has recently used the amount of money you must have to seek residency. Most retiring people would not qualify anymore. You were just visiting. Likewise I would like to visit someday but I would not want to do it by driving. I have heard too many horror stories and for now the state department has said not to travel to Mexico.
Wow olive trees is awesome 👏 🫒🙏🌻🍨🌳 looks paradise
Richard, another great video. Thanks!
Hi I have been living in Le Marche for the last twenty four years and feel priviledged to do so.
Please can I suggest that you do not plant cypress or fir trees as they are not native to the area many more beautiful ones are !
You can put up a temporary pool above ground for very little without the need for permits.i bought a 3metre diameter one for 150 euros from Bestway and we all had great fun.
Keep on enjoying the stunning views of tha Sibellini
Hi @janeavery9346 What trees are you suggesting? I am happy to look at a wide variety of plants and trees.😊Some of these trees are not even native to Italy but I see them everywhere - there are loads of them near where I am and most neighbouring houses have them.
I am not planning on trying to make shapes out of my driveway for a good drone shot or people to find to Intsagram but think the odd crypress tree here or there could frame or cover things like the pilon I have mid field.😎
The pool is a pipe dream at the moment. The job list infront of it is quite large!😂
Thanks! Loved every second of it! Greetings from a Belgian fan!
Re: pool, one of those large frame pools won’t be anything like 30k and may also not result in the Villa reclassification? You’d need to change the liner every few years but they work well.
You could be right @paulseeman6481 . Lots to research. There is a fencing rule also that needs to be considered. The pool area or the entire plot of land?! That can all wait...the job list is massive!😂
hi Richard.
I must say, I´m happy to have found your channel.
It´s something I´ve been thinking about doing as well.
I´m already living in Italy (near the Amalfi coast, provincia Salerno) but I´m in a flat at the moment.
My partner has some properties, which she thinks of developing, but still, too much in an urban area.
I´m getting your frustration with the authorities. I had to get an Italian ID card, although I´m an EU citizen.
😒
i watched all the videos, but can´t remember if you mentioned it.
Where did you look for properties? (currently i´m looking on idealista and immobiliare websites)
I know you got yours with a local help afterwards🙂
would have more questions, but let´s do a question per video.
Benvenuti, when you are back in Italy
Hi @nejcpilih I am in Italy now.
I used the same sites. casa.it is ok also. Once you find the region you like then start asking for the Geometra to get involved and hopefully you will meet one that will open up that 'private sale' for you. Good luck with it all.
I look forward to you next question(s) you can ask more than one at a time..😂🙌
If you are not permitted to make a living off this land, glamping seems an expensive way to go just for family. I think your plans for landscaping are very ambitious and are a major alteration to the gorgeous natural landscape you like. Certainly i would section off areas for home garden and trees, but keep it simple and reasonably priced. Who wants to be burdened with a big mortgage and the prospect of working for ever, seems to defeat the purpose of purchasing a rural property in Italy.
You're right @jeanrichardson2044 . I figures a tent that I can take down when not in use is cheaper than a big build. The glamping style is the pull for the children and their friends to come. Rough sleeping on the floor is a hard sell when trying to lure them away from cheap AirBnBs!😂
hey Richard, We are following you since day one: reason being Over a period of 22 years we bought 2 different properties in Italy, lived there permanently for over 16 years total and know exactly how you are feeling both about the plusses( good weather, fantastic sceneries, lovely food and wine), but also about the negatives( not going into boring details 😀) For family reason we moved back to our homeland Belgium 1 1/2 year ago and you know what… I still am missing and always will be missing Italy.. Despite the negative that you certainly will learn to deal with and accept( as all Italians do) it felt home man… One advice: invest ASAP in learning the language properly…and keep up the good spirit. love your regular updates as also it catapults my mind back to our period when we were doing up our properties! buona domenica..ciao Eddy
Thanks @eddyvannuten4097 . I am trying with the language but am struggling. I need to try cut a few things off and get stuck in for a month or so to break the balance on the confidence and recall side. Its no excuse but my days are a littel jam packed at the moment. Balance is needed.😊
At least you are not too far away should you want to pop down for a long weekend. I hope all is well for you back in Belgium.
the language is a challenge..the older you get the more challenging still its paying off.. We travel back to Italy on a regular base so i will contact you if we are in the area🍾👍😀
It’s beautiful country. I am hoping this year my vacation. Good luck your job.
I hope you manage to get a trip to Italy this year @violetgaribyan-jg9ll
Love your channel super helpful.
Enjoying your videos thank you 😊. Hello from Merseyside! Love the shade under the olive trees. Great for relaxing on sunny days.
Hi @Chrissyhappy. A little kip under there is magical 😎
Hey big boy! Don't get discouraged! Coraggio! Forza! The place still looks amazing, but don't bite off too much.
Thank you @nautilusshell4969 . I will chip away at it and give up on the 'lets get help in to get it done quickly' as I simply cannot afford the numbers that I am being presented with. There is another way I'm sure.😃
@@threeacresofmarche They may be chancing their arm with those figures and it often happens that someone local and non-professional might be able to do the job at half the price. Might you have a word with Dennis? He might know someone.....
I think Dennis and his brother could be good pals to have .
@@threeacresofmarche I think you're probably quite right.
Another great video thanks. Keep going, looking forward to seeing the start of the real work.
Thank you @patmahoney561 . Not long now...👍
Google earth has a contour function where you can exactly see what's going on on your land. Flattening out that area you pointed out is going to involve much much more than you can imagine.. It's a HUGE amount of soil.. ask me.. I've had something similar done too.. took days and days... with a bulldozer... But... good luck and thanks for posting !!!
Hi @Rickmaxi . I have a detailed report of the land and what is underneath from the planning permission days. They will use that data.
I wish I would not have said 'large flat area'. Tiers and banks is more like it. Swales seems a common tip to look into.
The patio and outside kitchen space needs to be flat - the rest will just make sure the house does not take a battering.😂
Look into making swales (how they turn desert into a forest) it can help you out with water retention and growing stuff! Lawn mowers can go on a slope…
Hey Richard, if you're looking for an awesome hammock, check out the small Norwegian company Amok. They have developed a hammock called Draumr. The special thing about it: in an Amok Draumr, you don't lie crooked like a banana parallel to the rope, but at a 90-degree angle to the rope stretched between two trees. And because you slide a specially designed mat into the Draumr, you can lie or sleep not only on your back, but also on your side or belly. Super comfortable. There is also a matching tarpaulin to protect you from the sun, rain - or falling olives 😂.
Thanks @peterborchers410 . I just looked - they have given me a few ideas. Thank you!👍
@@threeacresofmarche You're welcome, Richard.
Pick the olives in November ,take them to an olive press and pay them to press the oil.Delicious.
Hi @bertibear1300 . Thank you for the tip. I will try to do this in the future once I am little more organised. It would be great to have my own oil to cook and add to salads.🙌
All part of the fun. Working out what and how to do things. If you don't intend to harvest the olives, will you be planting other trees that are edible. Pools are very expensive here in NZ also. A lot of people put up portable plastic pools for the summer then empty them in the winter. A simple way to cool down and have fun in the water, and no permit of permission needed.
Hi @jeanettefrancis6473 . I plan on planting many things that are edible. That would be great to be able to eat from the garden here. All I would need to buy is the pasta and the wine!😂
Very much looking forward to your videos mate :)
You find a little local biulder.... Sounds to me like there's a lot of Noses in the Troth.... Off and Mugged springs to mind ...😮
Things are opening up around getting in local help @honestlythatsbull-ji9wc . While there may have been a few in troth I feel that I was only ripped off by the company that claimed to do the drainage for me that failed terribly during the bad weather (video #6). It is all a learning curve and overall an amazing place with lovely people.
Hi rich wow its a hell of an area you've got to landscape will be interested to see what you're plans are as this is my job id love to be doing it on my own property over there keep up the videos cheers Aaron
Thanks @aarontaylor3768 . If you ever fancy a busmans holiday - I can keep you pizza'd and wined well in return!😂🙌
@threeacresofmarche I'd love too 😂
I think I may need to invest in a few decent glamping tents and have work holidays set up.....we shall see. It would be great fun to have a few people stay.
@threeacresofmarche may be a good way to get round the costs Rich as long as you're plans are OK with the local authority be a great idea there was an elderly couple on grand designs years ago who did the same thing with tradespeople and friends and got the work done at a fraction of the price good luck
I love grand designs.....King Kev would love my original budget and timescale optimism versus the reality of the years its actually going to take!😂
good luck with this great job .i admire you be,, safe
Thank you @user-ey4ss1fq3t . My mother makes me clock in with her on days where I doing some power tool work.🙌😂
Does the water run off cause standing water around your house? The house hasn't washed away yet...so maybe just a catchment pond...excavating such a huge area that has been stable...hummmm???? Good luck!
A previous video shows what happened when one of the run offs above the house collapsed. I have been advised to clear around the house - 5m from the back is the guide and starting point. All tiering will be determined from that section being cleared. There is a lovely tree back there that I wan to save - lots to plan.
I wish I could erase 'large flat area' in place of banks and tiers that tie in to the clearing of the back of the house. YT rookie!😂🤦♂️
Richard look into shipping container pools when your ready, it’s probably the best option for you, the plumbing is encapsulated within the half container with lockable stairs and as it’s not a permanent structure you might get around the bureaucracy, I have seen one on a home tour video over there so their obviously available but I’ll try to find a link for you. 🇦🇺 Shell
Hi @One_Crazy_Dog_Mum . I have not heard of them but would love to see that video. Delivery may be a challenge here though?!😂
Awesome video Richard. Love following your progress in that beautiful place. Might end up buying something in italy myself someday.
Thank you @trevorsmith8603 . Go for it !😎
Hi Richard, I just caught up with all of your videos! Well done on getting to where you are now. It looks like it's been a massive undertaking and you seem to have such patience. I am following you from Puerto Rico, but am moving to Northern California (Sonoma County) next month. I'm hoping to get to Florence and possibly Ancona area this fall. I look forward to your next videos and updates.
Hi @lisacnewman that sounds like a great adventure in iteslf. Good luck with the move and safe travels.
@@threeacresofmarche Thank you so much!
You might be able to put in an overground pool and landscape it in with decking etc, it will be cheaper and nor turn your place into a villa. For the landscaping, you might find it cheaper to buy a suitable machine and do wat you want yourself, little by little
Hi @chemicaljuice3078 . Yes - the over ground pool was mentioned...sounds like a much better idea that villa tax!
The machine. That is what I am struggling to decide on - which or what to buy first. Any tips on what would keep the land in order while I adapt it would be much appreciated. I may try hire a few different ones and decide from there. 👍
@threeacresofmarche. Maybe you can learn a little more Italian and ask your friend, Dennis. Farmers always have earth moving equipment….BIG earth moving equipment (or know another farmer who does). Area farmers will appreciate a few extra dollars from such a day job because they make modest pay for their large contribution to society. Schedule it after harvest for a fair price. And by all means, invite them over for dinner when the place is ready.
Have you considered a natural pool? I'm not sure about Italian laws on this. You might end up reviving aquatic ecosystem of endemic species that disappeared ages ago. David Pagan Butler's UA-cam channel is a great start on this subject. Greetings from Cape Town.
Hi @robertmayer4415 . I did watch one or two videos on these - maybe, is the answer. The pool is way down the list of things to do. Although I could just make do and just go for it with an amazing pool.😂👍
Hi Richard, I'm so sorry your quote was double what you were hoping. I know how you feel after yesterday paying AUD 3,000 to have a tiny tiny little part replaced in my mini cooper !! I'm from Sydney, Australia and it's long been my dream to buy a small house or apartment in Spain or Italy, and you're literally living my dream, and I'm feeling jealous right now ... although not of your nasty quote for work to be done. At least being in the UK (which I also love) you're only a few hours away from Le Marche, sadly my flight is 24 hours! Anyway its late here in Sydney and I'm going to sleep to hopefully dream of the 6 months I'm planning to spend in Italy ... maybe next year (fingers crossed!!). Looking forward to your next vid 🙂
HI @lynmasterton . I feel your pain...my daughter wants that car but I am trying to softly talk her around to a car that is cheaper to service.😂
Sydney - I love that city. House swap could be a serious thing to consider. If I am not going to be here full time I would look to house swap. Keep in touch!😂
@@threeacresofmarche Oh what a brilliant idea, I'd absolutely definitely be interested in a house swap !! 😃
Sorry I wasn't paying enough attention oooppps (regarding the date) mi scusi 😊
Thats ok. Once we catch up it should follow the seasons fairly well.👍
Love the videos, really inspiring! I hope to do this one day. Just depends when and where. Why not treat one of the terraces as a food forest? Not something that you have to tend to very much at all but will add an extra layer of the good life.
Hi @dandscraig . I have some lovely nearby neighbours that have set up a food forest. I am going to head over and take a look at what they have created.👍
@@threeacresofmarche oh fab, if they let you film that would be interesting to see. Thank you for replying. 👍
Small house, maybe you can record yourself? As for pool, get a shallow above ground thing.
Hi @sonjasleeper1511 . The pool dream is quite some time away so a temporary pool above ground could be good for the short term.👍
Keep going!
How cold does it get there? There are other trees you could get and grow most likely that you could enjoy the fruits right off the tree besides olives that you will have to process. Pecans, apple, peaches, plums, loquats, figs(if the winters arent too harsh). If you dont get freezes, mangos, lychee and longans. I would look into an Irish Strawberry(Arbitus enudo(sp?)). Cool looking Mediterranean tree with lots of red-yellow berries. Just get one as the berries arent great, but it looks great and colorful. The Portuguese make wine from the berries.
Thank you @redcorsair14 . This list looks fantastic! It can get near zero but I don't think it freezes here. I have not seen snow but have seen photos - it tends to stay for a day or so and then all melts away. When I get to the planting and tree shopping parts I will be seeking lots of advice and tips! Thanks again.👍
Ciao, Nice plans and ideas!
In regard to the roof, is it customary to go get several quotes like we do here in the States so you can compare them and to ask questions to help make a better informed decision? or is that frowned upon in italy. Or would it just add more delays in your opinion?
My goodness!!
I was thinking of getting a fixer-upper but now watching all that you’re going through with getting permission first this that and the other thing….it would seem like I would be better off just buying something that didn’t need work so I could enjoy working the property and working the garden/ allotment areas. I’m planning to retire there soon but at age 62 and I don’t worry too much about being capable of doing the work stuff, It’s just that I might not live long enough at the rate they take for approvals. L O L.😂
In any case, you stay positive and keep on with what you can do now. ❤
I’m sending you best wishes in hopes for a speedy turnaround with the municipality there “getting it together” so that you can get on with all the work you have ahead of you. 😊
Hi @teresamason5155 Thank you for taking the time to write. I guess I am trying to show the reality behind these bargain houses as I know people are in two minds about what they do when they buy. Finished houses look expensive, but when you weigh up what I am doing then maybe they are priced fairly.😂 It is finding the one you love, that is the hard part. The rest will just work out.
Best wishes to you.
@@threeacresofmarche can you speak a little bit about the question on the quotes/appraisals in regards of getting more than one? Do you feel that that is something that is ok for or is it not ? I find that when I need work done I always get at least three so I can make comparisons and then I know what to ask for questions especially if one shows something and another quote doesn’t. Then I am able to discuss between them and make a better decision. In any case, I would like to know how that all works in Italy. If you can would you please add it in one of your videos or answer back here? Please and thank you for all you provide it is help in the understanding. Thank you so much!😊
Hi @teresamason5155 . This is a tricky one. As you must go through a Geometra for the permissions side, if they are involved in the building phases also it seems they collate the quotes and present you with the options. I am trying the alternative whereby I am getting my own quotes and will see how that works out. Time will tell....
I plan to explain the quotes and breakdown on a blog so that those looking for the details can see what I mean. There is a lot to sift through as there are pages and pages of things but people should get the gist from that. I will post on the community when I have written them up and posted them on my website.👍
Can´t you make a pond at the bottom of the field? Would help the land, there are many examples in permaculture where they have ponds. Looking forward to see the progress you have made. And for the roof, here in Spain and Portugal you can buy insulated roof panels, maybe you can install those yourself? Maybe with a pair of extra hands. They are not as pretty as tiles but they are not ugly either and a lot cheaper and way less work as they come insulated. Good luck with all the decision making. It´s all about time and money unfortunately.
Hi @brigid6609. I think the roof will be a team DIY job, yes. The swales and permaculture tips are coming in so lots to research there. All sound like good ideas.👍
I don’t know all the ins and outs of regulations in Italy, it’s a completely different animal to everywhere else we’ve lived, and we were slightly buffered from it when we lived there as renters many years ago. But we are buying there now.
So I did not know that a pool made a farm house into a villa, or that the change in designation had tax implications. I’m not surprised though, Italy is all about the taxes 😂 BUT is it possible to have a swimming pond that you call just a pond where the authorities are concerned?
It’s a lovely natural alternative, no chemicals, so less maintenance esp as you don’t live there?
Anyway, all your plans are so very exciting Richard, and I hope you don’t have to temper the dreams too much because of the cost - we live in Bulgaria and find the price of things in Italy quite ridiculous 😂- but we can’t get skilled labour either so 🤷🏻♀️
Hi @helendennis7662 . As far as I am aware, the pool tax relates to how the pool is built. If it is a fixed, sunk in the ground, pool = tax. Above ground, or tempoarary pools....grey area. There have been plenty of comments from those with 'above ground' pools that have not had any issues. I would like to think that they could not tax a pond....but you never know!😂👍
@@threeacresofmarcheI used to pay tax on exams at University.You had to buy Carta bollata.
Get some DVD films and watch in Italian to improve yout language skills.
Hey
I like the mix of work&life and the fact you are getting along more and more with certain Italian way/s of doing things. I have a couple of remarks and a suggestion though: it's comune and not commune, it's gEometra and not gIometra using the Italian pronunciation of those letters 😂 and for the next videos I would strongly recommend a mic, sometimes I'm struggling hearing/folowing you, while instead getting much better the whole back noise
HI @celox20theoriginal . Thank you for the tips.👌
All the footage in these videos was captured before I made the decision to launch a channel so I was kinda running blind in what I filmed and captured. I have since bought some extra camera and sound gear so I hope that you will notice that in one or two videos time.🙌
Hey Richard, i've been enjoying your videos for quite a while now, on a recent video you said that when purchasing the property you had to offer some of your land to the neighbour to see if they wanted to purchase it. I was wondering if you could give a little more info about this, also you said that you weren't allowed to earn any income from the land, is that because you don't have the appropriate visa?
As someone who is looking to buy a property in Europe this year, all the information, plus the quite shocking revelations of the costs you were quoted for enlarging your property are literally gold for someone such as myself.
I've watched many a video extolling the joys of buying a property in Europe, yet none have mentioned the seemingly extortionate added improvement costs such as you have experienced. Im currently looking for ways to overcome the Brexit nonsense 90 day stay limit, it is such a pain, thank you for putting out the content that you are, its greatly appreciated by those of us who are hoping to live the dream that you currently seem to be enjoying.
Many thanks, Rob
Hi @donkeykong7777 .
I plan to blog the details of the quotes on the website so sign up for the newsletter and I will try get some time aside to write up the detail on these quotes. It is interesting but in honesty I think I approached it all in the wrong way. I am making a 'detail' video of the stages of the planning and where it went well versus where it was rejected and why....lots to do
Anyway - the land is actually 6 or 7 parcels of land bundles together. Each section is numbered and mapped. The house section was no issue but the other sections are listed as farmland. My impression was that farmers must have a licence in order to trade / profit from farming. It was made clear that I could not just arrive and start being a full trading farmer. As such, the land had to be offered....but I could choose what the price of that land was. All land is taxed so saying it is worth 1 euro is fine, but no doubt the neighbours would have bought it for 1 euro. I took advice on the split between how much the house part was worth and what the 'value' of the land should be. I will blog this one also as I cannot recall the split of the 65k (euros) I paid in total.👍
Just to add, it is an old Italian law the farm land must be offered to neighbours first at the same price as offered by the proposed buyer. This is to try and keep land parcels from being too fragmented.
I'd check how much soil you have. The last thing you want is to be trying to dig out the bed rock from the field. Terreces with swales to capture and hold back rain water needs a bit of thinking. Ckeck out swales and water retention on youtube....
Hi @johnpeterdean1653 . Thank you. Swales tips are coming in from many of you.🙌
Yep a fab video again as I echo all the comments.
I would love to do a similar thing but find I can only work on Sovereign Soil so it limits the traveling. Plus I'd be making your field into a nice airstrip which I'm sure your neighbours would love 😂
Can I ask what you do for a job that gives you this flexibility?
On my first meeting where it was suggested that I put plans in for everyting...I joked about a helipad. They said, put what you want on the plans and decide later.😂
I work for a software company so most of my work is over Teams these days.👍
@@threeacresofmarche Ahh you work in the same field as me then, mines Central Gov mind atm hence the "UK soil only me laddy". I thought there was a symmetry in the madness I was watching.
Loving the progression by the way, always great when one of yours pops up in the Suggestions box.
symmetry in the madness....I like that!😂
Love that we see the true reality - life is about phone calls, ideas, can't-be-done, can-be-done, can't-be-arsed, can find the energy etc etc.
Especially in Italy, things change and die, suddenly be allowed. Caveats, costs - all the basics of actually doing something, rather than tell a story of perfection.
Rich - get yourself a cheap laser measurer and a reflective plate. Stick it on a sharpened post - ping it. Stick it in another place, ping it. Save you hours of pencil and paper:-)
Thanks @oov55 . Is that for measuring? I think the 'big dig' will be make-it-up-as-we go. Start at the back of the house and make it look good from there. I have just spend a fair few hours...with wine in hand...staring at it wondering where and how to start. 😂
Yes for measuring longer distances than say 30 feet. You get a budget Laser measuring gun and a reddish plate nailed to a stick - which pings the beam back - google it. Works well for big spaces@@threeacresofmarche
is there a professional gov't or univ. soil conservation service there in Italy in your region, like the US's Soil and Conservation Service which has its hand in everything farmers do? Those sunflowers are being harvested for the seed's oil, right?
Hi @williamneil8862 . I would assume so, yes.👍
swimming pond with loads of natural filtration
That could be a nice idea...time will tell. Long way to go before the pool idea becomes a reality.😊
So, what was the quote on the roof? Those of us about to go through this would like to know what we are in for....i have seen quotes up to 100k for an average sized house. Scary numbers.
Hi @jacobseal . I will write up a few blogs on the costs of the quotes that I have had and show them. I am concious of naming companies and getting into trouble that way so will share as much as I can without causing trouble. Keep an eye on the website I am building. I plan to spend some time over the next two weeks writing some thing up.👍