Kristina Knighten and her husband, Paul Cordier, were living and working as TEFL-certified teachers in the United Arab Emirates when they made the decision to purchase their first home in America. Having been raised in the Chicago suburbs, Knighten, 38, and Cordier, 45, both had a connection to the city and saw it as a long-term investment and potential retirement destination. With just under $40,000 saved, the couple began working with a real estate agent in the U.S. to search for properties within their budget of $260,000 to $270,000 for a multi-family home in the North Lawndale neighborhood of Chicago.
In 2019, while working with their agent in Chicago, Knighten and Cordier visited Lago d’Iseo, Italy, a place they had fallen in love with during a European road trip the year before. They found a charming two-bedroom house for sale at 25,000 euros, or $27,144 USD, and began considering the possibility of purchasing a home in Italy instead of the U.S. Even though obtaining a traditional U.S. mortgage was proving difficult due to their overseas income, the couple decided to pursue the Italian property as it seemed like a better fit for them.
After waiting about a year, Knighten and Cordier were finally able to close on the house in Italy, facing some challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the help of a local friend acting as their power of attorney, they were able to secure the property and begin renovations. The couple found the house in the same condition as it was left by the previous owner, evoking feelings of connection to the history of the property. Salvaging the previous owner’s belongings and planning for renovations became their focus as they prepared to make the house their own.
Renovations on the Italian home began in March, with the couple living in a nearby apartment while the work is being done. They faced some budget challenges, including unexpected increases in costs for repairs, such as a new roof. Despite these setbacks, Knighten and Cordier remain optimistic about the project and are looking forward to seeing the final result of their renovations. While initially hoping to move into the house before their apartment lease expired, they are now planning for a later move-in date, possibly by Christmas.
Knighten reflects on the decision to take a risk and pursue their dream of owning a home in Italy, acknowledging the uncertainty but also the fulfillment it brings. She remains positive and hopeful about the future, trusting that things will work out in the end. The couple’s journey serves as a reminder of the rewards that can come from following your heart and taking a chance on something that brings happiness and fulfillment, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties.
