Woman Buys 17-Room House in Sicily for Less Than a Year's Rent in LA

Kiki Leigh, a 28-year-old from Canada, was inspired by a viral video to purchase a home in Mussomeli, Italy, and is now renovating the property.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:08pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a classic Italian espresso cup repeated in a tight grid pattern, capturing the essence of the story's focus on embracing a new way of life in a foreign country.A vibrant, pop art-inspired illustration celebrating the unique lifestyle and culture that drew a young Canadian woman to purchase an affordable home in the small Sicilian town of Mussomeli.Los Angeles Today

Kiki Leigh, a 28-year-old originally from Winnipeg, Canada, bought a 17-room house in Mussomeli, Italy, for 27,000 euros (about $31,115) after being inspired by a viral video about buying cheap homes in Sicily. Leigh, who was living in Los Angeles and paying nearly $3,000 per month in rent, felt an instant connection to the small Italian town and its welcoming community. While renovating the home has presented some challenges, Leigh is excited about the opportunity to immerse herself in a new culture and create a space for entertaining friends and family.

Why it matters

Leigh's story highlights the growing trend of people, particularly younger generations, seeking more affordable and fulfilling lifestyles outside of major cities like Los Angeles. Her decision to purchase a large, inexpensive home in Sicily and embrace the local community reflects a desire for a slower pace of life, stronger social connections, and the ability to own property at a fraction of the cost of urban centers.

The details

Leigh bought the 4,300-square-foot, four-bedroom, four-bathroom house with 17 total rooms in June 2024. Originally, the property was divided into five separate units but has since been combined into one large home. Leigh estimates the renovation costs will total around 90,000 euros (about $103,715) by the time the work is completed in mid-2023. Despite the challenges of renovating a foreign property, Leigh has been welcomed by the tight-knit community in Mussomeli, who have introduced her to local professionals and helped her feel at home.

  • Leigh visited Sicily for the first time in 2022 and fell in love with the region.
  • After seeing a viral video about buying cheap homes in Sicily, Leigh was in Mussomeli within two weeks to explore the possibility.
  • Leigh purchased the 17-room house in June 2024 for 27,000 euros (about $31,115).
  • Leigh expects the renovations on the property to be completed by June or July 2023.

The players

Kiki Leigh

A 28-year-old originally from Winnipeg, Canada, who is relocating from Los Angeles to Mussomeli, Italy, after buying a 17-room house there.

Lorrah Minton

The creator of a viral video that inspired Leigh to explore buying a home in Sicily.

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What they’re saying

“I instantly felt at home in Sicily.”

— Kiki Leigh

“The people here are very welcoming, warm, curious, and kind, and it's a completely different social experience. It feels far less superficial.”

— Kiki Leigh

What’s next

Leigh plans to complete the renovations on her new home in Mussomeli by June or July 2023, at which point she will fully relocate from Los Angeles to Sicily.

The takeaway

Leigh's story demonstrates the growing appeal of seeking more affordable and fulfilling lifestyles outside of major cities, as well as the potential benefits of immersing oneself in a new culture and community. Her experience highlights the opportunities available for those willing to take a chance on a foreign property, even with the challenges of renovating and adjusting to a different way of life.