Barriers

Do you remember that time I said we were 'barrier-less' to completing in Italy, though probably not because of the 1000 other complications that were going to arise? Haha. funny how things turn out. 

Sabi had a video call this morning with the current owner of the house we are buying in Italy. Apparently he speaks very well and looks cool with a giant beard. He also keeps bees, so he sounds like my kinda guy. Anyway, he called up to have a chat and tell us how angry he is with the estate agent for being pretty sh*tty. I mean, I have been annoyed at her for a while now, so I am glad I'm not alone in this. 

It turns out that the notary (solicitor) in Italy is linked to the estate agent and has flagged an issue that needs fixing before we can complete. Essentially, the garage, which was built in the 70's, was built 40cm longer than the original architect planning. The notary won't allow the sale to go through until either the deed is changed or the building is fixed. This probably wouldn't be a huge issue other than the fact that in August, Italy practically shuts down for holidays so nothing will happen until September. Not a huge problem, other than we'll be living with Sabi's parents for a month - which does have some benefits (including a swimming pool and opportunity for me to finish some work I need to do without distraction) and some challenges (Sabi's parents aren't dog people....Lobo is a dog, a pretty stinky annoying one at times). 

If, as we asked her to, the estate agent had started the notary off 6 months ago when we put a 10,000 euro deposit down, we wouldn't be in the position. Instead, she told us 'it'll be fine, it'll only take a couple of weeks to go through'. In hindsight, we should have forced her to start, but y'know, we are passive. So anyway. we all dislike the estate agent. But are working on ways to circumnavigate the issues with the current owner, who is willing to pay to have it all fixed and 'rent' the house to us for 1euro so we can move in during the interim. Not ideal. But maybe better than alternatives. 

So, top tip for those of you looking to relocate. Put pressure on estate agents and notary to get started early so when you are 3 days away from moving to the country, you aren't being told there is a potential 1 month or more delay to completing.

In positive news, our packing is on-going. Sabi's fabric collection exceeds 180kg, which is pretty impressive, her sewing machines are packed and business is closed until we are settled in Italy. You can still pre-order for delivery, which is being bulked together for 1 or 2 deliveries to the UK per year. visit her page at Amore Mio Clothing and Zero Waste on Facebook or Amore del Mondo on Instagram. 

Here is Lobo.