Paul Belcher

I was introduced to Steve and Karen by a mutual friend more than 12 months before I eventually found time to take the plunge and decided to go and see for myself the beauty of Umbria and the properties Historic Italian Homes can restore.

Steve and Karen’s house is a wonderful advert for the art of the possible. So it was that a series of decaying buildings they showed to me could, through their trained eyes, each be seen as a beautifully restored property retaining all of its traditional rural charm. The Umbrian hills and valleys conceal many decaying properties, and they saved until last the most spectacular of all. Approached by a long tree-lined driveway was a large villa and several other substantial buildings visible to varying degrees behind the largest wisteria I had ever seen and 40 years of trees and undergrowth. But the location, the approach and the possibilities immediately captured my imagination.

It was fortunate that I had recently sold my business, giving me both time and finance, and I just knew that buying and restoring these properties would provide a creative outlet for my energies.

Nothing in Italy is straightforward for those unfamiliar with the processes and culture, but Steve and Karen have steered me easily through the processes with an abundant supply of calm and determination. I now have an Italian bank account, legal ownership of a number of properties and a wonderful architect who has already drawn up very appealing plans. The development is just beginning and as I walked round the properties with the architect talking about the love and attention that is going to be lavished on each building I fell in love with each in turn!

Most importantly of all I have confidence that this project will reach a successful conclusion. Steve and Karen have a great track record and every one of their contacts that I have met is high quality, just the sort of person that I would have wished to work with but would never have found on my own.

The development is going to be very fulfilling – seeing my dreams become reality. Most of the properties are going to be sold, but I have a wonderful property to keep for myself and the prospect of being able to spend leisure time with family and friends in a beautiful location.

"...The development is just beginning and as I walked round the properties with the architect talking about the love and attention that is going to be lavished on each building I fell in love with each in turn!"
- Paul Belcher

Villa Padronale before restoration

The restored Villa Padronale

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