American Keith Richardson purchased a house in the charming southern Italian town of Nardò for $111,000. Richardson, who previously worked in the US education system, made the move to Italy with the help of an expat friend and a local real estate consultant. He specifically sought a property away from commercialized chains like McDonald’s and Starbucks, ultimately settling on Nardò, a tranquil town nestled inland from the coast.
After skillful negotiations, Richardson acquired a two-bedroom, two-bathroom home for a fraction of the cost compared to similar properties in Southern California. The 667-square-foot abode, situated on the ground floor of a historic building, features Puglia’s distinctive pinkish-golden stone construction and had already undergone renovations by the previous owners. Richardson made minor enhancements, including a permanent roof over the patio and bamboo privacy screens.
Nardò, known for its proximity to stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere, offers Richardson the ideal setting for a relaxing retirement. The town, often referred to as “Italy’s Maldives,” remains a hidden gem, away from the tourist crowds. Richardson praises the coastal lifestyle in Puglia and appreciates the Italian approach of taking things easy and enjoying life at a leisurely pace.
Overall, Richardson is delighted with his decision to relocate to Italy, citing the lower cost of living, fresh local produce, and the serene ambiance as key factors in his newfound love for the Italian lifestyle.
The beauty of Puglia, with its stunning coastlines and olive groves, has captured Richardson’s heart. He describes the region as reminiscent of Southern California in the 1960s, evoking memories of passing through orange groves to get to various destinations. His admiration for Italy originated from his passion for languages, having taught Spanish at a university before transitioning into administration.
After retiring as a director in a high school district in Los Angeles, Richardson began to explore Italy twice a year, reveling in the country’s lifestyle and the genuine nature of its locals. By 2023, he decided to make Puglia his home, drawn to the authentic, non-touristy appeal of Nardò. He sought a place untouched by mass tourism or major brands, and Puglia’s charm fit the bill with its beautiful beaches, picturesque cities, and welcoming atmosphere.
In March 2024, Richardson purchased his dream home in Nardò’s historic center, surrounded by churches and palazzos. The property’s ground-floor location and proximity to Piazza Salandra added to its allure, providing a comfortable living space without the challenge of navigating steep staircases common in historic Italian homes.
Currently, Richardson divides his time between Southern California and Nardò, with plans to spend more time in Italy once his visa is sorted. Despite the cultural adjustments and occasional challenges, such as adapting to local customs and closing times, he embraces the dolce vita lifestyle, cherishing his days exploring nearby villages, enjoying coffee at local bars, and savoring traditional dishes at trattorias.
Looking ahead, Richardson aims to apply for an elective residence visa in 2025, allowing him to spend extended periods in Italy. While he looks forward to immersing himself further in Nardò’s small-town charm, he remains connected to his roots in the US, where his parents reside. Embracing the unique experiences and cultural clashes, Richardson finds solace in the relaxed pace of life and the genuine interactions he encounters in Nardò.
The transition to a new life in southern Italy appears to have been smooth for many, as they report avoiding common bureaucratic challenges often associated with moving to a new country. One resident described the process of purchasing a house as easy, attributing any horror stories to lack of preparation. Prior to buying the property, he was informed about the necessity of obtaining an Italian tax identification number, which he acquired upon arrival in Italy.
The real estate agency in Nardò helped him set up a bank account, which proved to be a more complex and time-consuming task compared to buying the house. Despite this, the resident was pleased with the assistance provided by the representative. Additionally, the agency connected him with a housekeeper who maintains his home and a handyman for any necessary repairs.
One significant challenge for the resident has been the requirement to obtain a residence card before purchasing a car in Italy. In the meantime, he plans to use an e-bike and rental cars. Upon relocating full-time to Puglia, he intends to lease his home in Southern California to his twin brother.
The resident looks forward to experiencing Puglia’s mild winters, olive groves, picturesque towns, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, including the iconic bombette, a local street food. He has been particularly impressed by the warm and welcoming nature of the people in the community, describing them as genuine and caring individuals who look out for each other.
He appreciates the sense of security provided by a vigilant elderly neighbor on his street, who keeps a watchful eye on the neighborhood throughout the day.
