Problems

Crime
Many people will probably immediately associate Sicily with the Mafia. The Mafia does exist and has been ‘exported’ throughout the globe; they are a multimillion dollar business. However, in Sicily they have no interest in foreigners and individual home owners; therefore it is very unlikely you will ever have anything to do with them.
The Mafia is more prevalent in the west of Sicily and Palermo. Ragusa for example in the south east has the lowest crime rate in the whole of Italy.
Small scale criminality such as bag snatching can happen in the large cities as it can anywhere in the world. Other than that you are unlikely to witness or experience any crime, as community and familial strength minimises the social disturbance commonplace in most European cities.

Language
It is not essential to speak Italian in Sicily, but it will make your life here much more rewarding if you do. They feel flattered if you try to learn and will be ‘simpatico’ to your efforts.

Bureacracy
This is part and parcel of Italian life, we will help guide you through it.
Make sure your passport is current and not due to expire soon, it is much more common to be asked for identification for even trivial matters here.
Also make sure you bring the European Health Insurance Card EHIC, free to obtain – this will entitle you to free treatment.

European health card

Other reasons for not buying in Sicily

If you prefer bland life - Vita senza gusto (Life without flavour)

If you prefer new builds that are unsympathetic to the region

If you prefer local ‘traditions’ that only exist for tourists.

If you prefer to live in ‘england’ in the sun, making no effort to intrigate and appreciate local customs.