From 1-Euro Home to Work-Life Balance Lesson: Meredith Tabbone’s Italian Journey

Rewritten Article: Meredith Tabbone embarked on a journey four years ago to reconnect with her family history by purchasing an abandoned property in Sambuca di Sicilia, Italy through the town’s 1-euro home program. As she discovered that her great-grandfather was originally born in this small Italian village before starting a new life in America, Tabbone saw it as fate and placed her bid. Although winning the auction required only €5,900 ($6,200), managing renovations of both properties cost approximately $475,000 altogether. The Chicago-based financial advisor learned that Sicilians work at a slower pace than Americans are accustomed to and appreciated this as it allowed her to connect more deeply with the local community during the pandemic when travel restrictions were in place. She now cherishes socializing opportunities with locals rather than sightseeing or meeting expats like she initially anticipated, realizing it is much easier for outsiders to fit into Sicilian culture due to their communal lifestyle. Tabbone’s time abroad has also caused her to reflect on the balance between work and personal fulfillment. She intends to visit every country in the world now rather than putting it off because of a more efficient use of her time when she is back home, as well as learning how to say “no” to commitments that are not necessary for professional or personal growth. Although Tabbone would have preferred some initial patience and relaxation with Sicily’s slower lifestyle if given the chance again, ultimately it never seemed like anything but the correct decision, considering she remains pleased both regarding her house in Italy as well as this renovation project.