"American Homebuyer in Italy Discovers Unexpected Surprises"

Chicago-based saxophonist Joshua Shapiro purchased an abandoned apartment in the village of Latronico, Italy, as part of his plan to eventually move away from the United States. Despite encountering unexpected challenges such as cultural clashes over furniture and the presence of elderly nuns as tenants, Shapiro is drawn to the remote, mountainous village's slower-paced lifestyle and creative potential. He has spent around $10,730 on renovations so far and is exempt from property and waste disposal taxes for five years, making the purchase a bargain compared to Chicago's real estate prices.