(10) Abandoned to Amazing: My Sicilian Villa Real Estate Investment & Off-Grid Homestead Italy

[@OperationSicily]

Abandoned to Amazing! 🏚➡🏡 I’m transforming this abandoned villa into an off-grid homestead! This week, I’m clearing out the garden and tackling some heavy cleanup. What would you do with a garden like this? Let me know! 🌿 Stay Updated for More: 📅 New episodes every Sunday! 📷 Instagram: @Operation.Sicily 👉 Hit subscribe, like, and join the journey! And if you’d like to support the work, feel free to ‘buy me a coffee’ here buymeacoffee.com/operationsicily - every bit of help fuels this transformation!

[@greybeard5774]

You should be very careful with bonfires - if the sparks should fly into the neighbor's yard and set the grass on fire, you are in deep trouble, coz it seems to be very dry at the moment and you have no water.

[@wendywalsh-pardey9439]

The end of October is when you can burn off in Sicily, but It has to be early morning or late evening and no wind. Friend has a olive grove and they are burning off now, wind permitting.

[@karmaficionado1163]

Am I the only one screaming at the computer to "stop it from spreading!!!"??? LOL

[@yolandagofigure]

😂😂😂😂🤦‍♀️

[@christineorkins6936]

No. I'm doing the same thing. Our neighbor burned yard waste, and it set another neighbor's 5 acres on fire. This is very concerning. Please - safety first.

[@LeisaStroud-df4yj]

Does he not notice he has to walk thru the 🔥🔥🔥 of the 2nd fire to get to the 1st 🔥🔥🔥 fire?! 😱

[@MsSquirl00]

Nope. I was also about to put on a different video because I didnt want to see the fire that kept creeping to the right, to spread to the huge pile of cut trees along the fence of his other neighbors. ⚠🔥🚒👩‍🚒🧯😧

[@luposolitario1829]

Pay attention with a free fire in Sicily...the wind isn't on your side

[@marianharris441]

Specially when you don't have any water to put it out!!

[@selinabrown4896]

The refuse fire freaked me out, no water available if things got out of hand.

[@sandramoreno4335]

Start a compost pile to use in your future garden. Don’t burn everything

[@lagringa7518]

Good point, the rains will come eventually, but I see that he has a compulsion to bare bones everything 😂.

[@yolandagofigure]

🐀🐀🐀🐀

[@sharonfowkes7124]

Well done 👍 clearing the rubbish, yes looks better. Great progress. The difference already is great .

[@OperationSicily]

Thanks a bunch, really grateful! 🌟

[@titanus49]

You have to be from the older generation of Sicilians to know how to pick prickly pears from the tree. Because the tree plus the fruits are covered in small but sharp needle like thorns, can penetrate the skin and become a nuisance. My dad made a special tool to pick the fruits. Basically a long broom stick, with a metal cone shaped attachment at the end, which is placed over the fruit, twisted and brought down to ground level. Wearing thick gloves is recommended when peeling the skin off the fruits, or my dad would put the fruits in a bucket of cold water, leave the them there overnight, next morning all the prickles had fallen off the fruits, making it easier, to peel off the sakin.

[@ianmarsden8568]

I love solutions like this - where there's a will, there's a way!

[@barbarakloise6790]

Great place timer trick/hack!❤

[@carlorad]

I don’t think to burn all that stuff is permitted,…anyhow, without accessible water.. just check.. in the north of Italy you will get a considerable €€€€ fine..how is the electricity and water contract ?

[@luisamarialekue6828]

You can’t do it in Spain

[@carlorad]

@ ok but he is in Italy (Sicily)

[@luisamarialekue6828]

@ Asshold

[@discovery2727]

Nice job mate! You are a warrior in the garden! A lot of couch warriors in the comments 😅

[@OperationSicily]

I really appreciate your kind words, thank you! ❤️

[@judymcgovern8454]

Wow, you have done an amazing job. Think the best thing at the moment is maybe have a a patio area so you have somewhere to sit and rest. The rest I would leave until the house is finished. A small pool would be good x

[@OperationSicily]

Thank you so much, Judy! 😊 A patio area is definitely high on my list, especially with the hot Sicilian summers-it would be great to have a little spot to relax. And yes, a pool is part of the long-term plan for the garden! Have you caught my latest video? Lots of updates on the villa! 🏡🌿

[@ianmarsden8568]

I know we have not seen this side of the property much, but it looks so much better now. Onwards and upwards.

[@OperationSicily]

Thanks so much, means a lot! 🙏

[@kathycolunga75]

Great job cleaning up the vegetation. Reminds me of how my dad used to have his burn pile going while he rou ded up more to put on the pile.

[@OperationSicily]

Thank you so much, Kathy! 😊 Sounds like your dad knew how to get the job done right! 🔥 It was definitely satisfying clearing away all that overgrown vegetation and bringing some life back to the place. The fire may have looked intense on camera, but it was a planned, controlled burn-just like your dad’s technique, I bet! 🌿 I even let some of the ground burn intentionally to help promote new growth, similar to controlled burns used in the UK and beyond. Have you had a chance to watch any of the earlier videos? Would love to hear what you think! 😊👍

[@kathycolunga75]

@@OperationSicily I have watched since you bought this wonderful villa. The then and now of the cleanup is quite remarkable. You were able to look past all the unpleasantness and see the gem underneath. Great foresight! I look forward to watching as you continue your journey. And just a note: My dad knew what he was doing, just as you do.

[@GypsyHoover]

Wow! You've got a lot done! Good on you!

[@OperationSicily]

So glad you're enjoying the progress, thank you! 🙏

[@KevinGreaves-j8z]

I’m curious to know why you’re concentrating on the grounds rather than working on the house, especially after you’ve done such an excellent job cleaning it removing all the rat droppings and bird crap. Also getting the doors and windows to open and close I’d have thought you’d work on the house to get it habitable and you can move out of the Air BnB

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Kevin, great question! 😊 There are a couple of reasons I’ve been focusing on the grounds for now. Honestly, I just really enjoy working outdoors-there’s something satisfying about tidying up the garden and making the space usable again. 🌿☀️ But the main reason is that I’m still waiting on permits to get approved before I can tackle the bigger jobs inside, like sorting out the electrics, water well, and replacing the windows and doors. 🚧🔧 These are the key things needed to make the house habitable. As soon as those permits come through, I'll definitely be back inside to get it ready so I can finally move in and leave the Airbnb behind! Thanks so much for following along and for the kind words on the progress so far! 😊👍

[@seanb9815]

Great video Jonathon and your making great progress, taking it all in your stride is the best way when working alone. So glad the sespit is in good order which must be a bonus for you. Hope you have a great week ahead 👍

[@OperationSicily]

Your encouragement keeps me going, thank you! 🙌😊

[@jennms1586]

Sorry to see those beautiful chairs go.

[@OperationSicily]

Thank you so much, Jenn! 😊 I totally get what you mean-it broke my heart to get rid of those beautiful pieces. 😢 I would have absolutely loved to restore and keep them, but sadly, they were completely covered in rodent droppings and urine. From a safety standpoint, especially with my young kids staying here in the future, it just wasn’t worth the risk. I’m hoping to find some new pieces that can bring back that vintage charm! 🛋️✨ Have you had a chance to check out my earlier videos? Would love to hear your thoughts!

[@jennms1586]

@@OperationSicily I totally understand. Didn't realize they were in such a bad state and am sorry that they were. I would have done the same as you, in that case. I've been watching a few of your videos and enjoy them very much. You're filming is great. Not too movemented and not overkill on the narration. I like how one can watch you work while you voice over the narrative instead of filming yourself talking. Well done. I'm subscribed for that very reason. Keep up the good work and thank you so much for responding to my earlier concern about the chairs. I very much appreciate it.

[@PeterMccabe-h3q]

My favorite man ..Well done with the cleaning and beating up ..Watch you next week

[@OperationSicily]

Your encouragement keeps me going, thank you! 🙌😊

[@Kris-fg7hc]

Your channel is nice, I like the idea of ​​getting to know new places and escaping from the routine. However, as a firefighter that I am, I must tell you that agricultural crop residues and brushwood can only be burned in the morning from the early hours of the day and in any case no later than 9.00 am in the period between 1st May and 15th May and from 31 October to 15 November and also in these periods only with humid weather conditions. I can only tell you that you could have caused a disaster, a complaint and very expensive fines. Then in Italy furniture is considered special waste and must be disposed of as such. I hope you remember this next time, good luck and don't sweat so much! 😊

[@theworldisyours5831]

@@Kris-fg7hc 🙌👌

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Kris, I really appreciate your feedback, especially coming from a firefighter’s perspective. 🙏🔥 I completely understand the concerns, and it’s clear there are a lot of regulations around burning waste here in Italy. The rural area I’m in doesn’t have the same restrictions, but I still took extra precautions to control the fire-choosing a safe spot surrounded by non-flammable stone and concrete walls. I kept a close eye on it the whole time, but I definitely take your advice seriously for future reference. As for the old furniture, it was unfortunately too contaminated with rodent droppings and urine to be safely reused, which is why I had to dispose of it that way. 🪑🐭 I’m definitely learning as I go, and I appreciate your advice on proper disposal-next time, I’ll look into alternative options. Thanks for watching and for the good luck wishes! 😊 Hope you stick around for more of the journey, and I’ll try not to sweat as much next time! 💪😅

[@Kris-fg7hc]

I read the restrictions I told you in the regional provisions of Sicily on the official website of the region, then each municipality can tighten them based on weather conditions. In any case, the website of the municipality where the house is located must have all the updated rules. As for wood, it should be thrown away in separate waste collection centers. I returned yesterday from London and as I flew over these green fields I wondered how you would find yourself in these dry and barren plains. good luck, bye

[@claudioboaretto]

Excelente trabalho, você não só fez uma limpeza necessária como queimou coisas da casa que possuímos uma energia que não era sua . Não mantenha lixo ou qualquer coisas na sua propriedade o qual você já decidiu que tenha que sair . Se for preservar ou recuperar, limpe esse objeto com água + sal grosso , assim você remove a energia do antigo dono . No Brasil fazemos assim, antes de entrar em um imóvel ou recuperar algo, temos esse pequeno ritual, que acredite… dá muito certo. Boa sorte, estou gostando muito dos seus vídeos . Você já conseguiu ligar a luz e a água junto a prefeitura ?

[@cristinacucconi7411]

Per questa volta sei stato fortunato, ma attenzione con il fuoco perché a volte arrivano i vigili urbani e fanno la multa, se chiamavi un giardiniere ti portava via tutto,,comunque se hai bisogno di idraulici bravi e giardiniere io li conosco, ti abbraccio 🤗👋👋💙

[@BHBULOP]

Questo video mi ha spiazzata. Un'azione pericolosa e da sanzione che viene fatta in tutta tranquillità, in spregio a tutte le norme di sicurezza. In Sicilia ci sono norme rigorose, e un niente può creare danni data la situazione del terreno. Non perché sei in Sicilia puoi fare quello che ti pare. Sono sconcertata,

[@antoniosidoni5310]

Sono d'accordo, Ho appena scritto un commento in inglese che condanna quanto ha fatto questo signore. Un pazzo irresponsabile e zero sensibilità ambientale. Saluti

[@cristinacucconi7411]

Quando abitavo in Sicilia, vedevo fuochi dappertutto, ma la cosa più orrenda che ho visto vicino al bidone della spazzatura, una pecora senza testa con tutte le budella di fuori, questa cosa mi ha davvero sconvolta 😢​@@BHBULOP

[@cleeveofford1720]

Nice bit of shade there mate few slabs and a brolly, job done.👍 😂😂

[@OperationSicily]

Absolutely, Cleeve! 🍻😄 A few slabs, a big umbrella, and I’d be all set-just missing some cold beers and a BBQ to complete the vibe! 🍖🔥 Honestly, with the heat out here, a bit of shade goes a long way. Might have to set up a little chill spot for breaks! 😎 Thanks for watching, mate-hope you’re enjoying the journey! Have you checked out any of the earlier videos? 😊👍

[@cleeveofford1720]

Yes mate have watched all of them I think you are doing what most of us would love to do if we had the balls to do it, seems as though we get stuck and lose our spirit mate Personally I would love to do it but the wife won’t have it. Can’t blame her. Maybe in another life as? Looking good, I’ll keep watching, good luck to you boy.

[@shawnminker6252]

Is doing all that burning that close to homes allowed in sicily just curious.

[@BHBULOP]

NO!!!

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Shawn, thanks for your question! 😊 In the rural area where my villa is located, controlled burning of garden waste is a common practice. I took several precautions to ensure safety: choosing a location surrounded by non-flammable stone and concrete walls, closely monitoring the fire, and having tools on hand to manage it. 🔥🛠️ While regulations can vary, I made sure to follow local guidelines and prioritize safety throughout the process. Thanks for watching and for your concern! 🙏

[@ChrisFigueroa-vh7si]

OK, aside from all the fire and safety no-no’s, pumice really works on porcelain. It does not scratch porcelain at all. Easily renovated a 50 yo toilet to new with just a pumice stone.

[@annbottelli5682]

Never thought I'd enjoy sitting watching bonfires so much! I love a good clean-up😂

[@yolandagofigure]

😂.... right 🤦‍♀️

[@101fairplay]

We have a more modern septic tank but I believe this trial works on all tanks Pour a couple of litres of olive oil in it helps with the break up and smell

[@OperationSicily]

That’s such an interesting tip-thanks for sharing! 🫒 I’ve heard olive oil can work wonders for septic tanks, so I’ll keep that in mind when I tackle mine properly. Have you had a chance to check out my latest video? Lots of updates there! 💧🛠️

[@FionaStewart-Murray-wo3ml]

What an impressive improvement! The garden will love you for this❤️

[@OperationSicily]

I really appreciate your kind words, thank you! ❤️

[@MarianneInmarsilia]

Great progress though that fire was making me nervous. Did you have to get a burn permit from the town ? What are you long term garden design plans….will you be planting this Autumn or Winter ? Take care !

[@Michaelf-sb9xw]

Well done

[@OperationSicily]

Thanks for being part of this journey! 🌟

[@joyariffic4217]

Well done! How come you dont replace the toilet?

[@OperationSicily]

Thank you so much! 😊 I wanted to get the entire place fully cleaned and sanitized first to have a clean slate to work from and to properly assess what I was working with. There was also the safety aspect of dealing with all the urine and droppings. That said, both the bathroom and kitchen will be fully replaced in due time. Surprisingly, the bathroom came up pretty clean after I finished the deep clean, but it’s definitely on the list for a full makeover! 🚿🛁

[@susanpasto8583]

When do you get electricity?

[@ianmarsden8568]

So close to bonfire night in the UK - great timing!

[@OperationSicily]

Haha, right?! Timing was spot-on with all the bonfire prep! 🔥🔥 It felt like a mini Bonfire Night celebration here in Sicily. Have you caught my latest video? Lots of updates on the villa and garden! 🌿✨

[@bradcrompton9055]

You might be able to get water out of the well using a couple of solar panels and an inverter.... Then pump into an IBC for use around the house as needed rather than going to public taps

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Brad, that's a brilliant idea-using solar panels and an inverter to pump water from the well is definitely something I'm considering! ☀️💧 I’m really keen to make the most of renewable energy here. The challenge right now is draining the well first-I need a dirty water pump that can handle about 20 meters straight up to clear out all the years of debris and sediment. Unfortunately, finding one that can do that at a reasonable cost has been quite tricky! 😅 But I’m determined to make it work. Thanks so much for the suggestion, and if you’ve got any recommendations for pumps, I’m all ears! 🙌 Have you seen the earlier videos? Would love to hear what you think of the progress so far! 😊

[@annamaybeekman]

GREAT JOB IT LOOKS NICE

[@OperationSicily]

Your support is so appreciated, thank you! 😊🌿

[@isabellevince5174]

It was interesting to see the fire creep along the grass, closer and closer to the large pile of foliage piled next to the wall bordering your neighbour's house.

[@peggyclio1199]

Very extremely dangerous Indeed!

[@lagringa7518]

@@peggyclio1199 The neighbors house looks deserted.

[@yolandagofigure]

😳

[@OperationSicily]

@isabellevince5174 The fire was carefully monitored, but I understand how it might look on video! Thanks for watching and sharing your concern. 😊 My new video is coming out this Sunday-stay tuned for something different! Don’t forget to follow on Instagram (@operation.sicily) and TikTok (@operationsicily) for behind-the-scenes updates.

[@PaulCousins-ko3jd]

Good progress sir,think I would be happier if you protected your eyes while using the strimmer and watch out for cinders from your bonfire 🔥 all the best👏🏾🥰

[@OperationSicily]

Thank you so much, really appreciate it! 🌟

[@shrory]

I would have hired a chipper and made a compost pile for gardening in year 2 onwards

[@OperationSicily]

That’s a great idea about the chipper and compost pile-I’ll keep that in mind for future gardening projects. The roots you spotted in the small chamber are definitely something I’ll need to deal with soon. Thanks for the tips! 😊 New video coming this Sunday-hope you enjoy it! Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@operation.sicily) and TikTok (@operationsicily).

[@darrenm236]

Was going to ask about the rats but you covered in the update. If you can't block off the broken areas of the cesspit cover easily with stones, some wire mesh would do it. Something like Roshield roll of stainless steel mesh. Can cut into pieces and shape and then jam into any gaps in the cover or anywhere else so they can't get in. Stones can be moved or the rats might still find a gap to get through. As a rule of thumb, rats can squeeze into a gap about the same size as your thumb so if you can push your thumb into a gap, that's where rats can go. Rats leave a residue behind (rat grease) so if they were climbing in and out of the cesspit cover, you should be able to see some staining. Not a rat expert but learned a lot when had an issue with the little ******* years ago. Awesome project by the way 👍

[@johnmclean1046]

Do not ever operate a strimmer without face protection, you will get injured possibly badly, always wear protection ( ! ) it’s not worth it even if it’s safety glasses.

[@mfdiogo_]

Safety 1st, a bad incident can happen in less than one second and it's a lifetime to regret not wearing protection.

[@johnmclean1046]

@ two things happened to me while using strimmers / grass cutters, once a stone was fired out of a machine and took the top off my steel toed boots and another we were on site and the guy on the other side of the lorry fired up his strimmer and a stone came round the lorry and hit me on the arse, ouch ! Lol 😂 always use safety equipment

[@somogyiagnes4808]

Have you tried that when you have 40°C in the shadow?

[@johnmclean1046]

@@somogyiagnes4808 do you mean when it’s hot? Yes in a scorching hot Scottish summer of 15 C but a bit of discomfort is nothing compared to loosing an eye 👁️

[@yolandagofigure]

Exactly

[@Mark-el8sb]

Love the concept of this undertaking. Well done so far! Sounds like the neighborhood has a bit of a dog issue tho..

[@Cameron-ev7rc]

A told you last week face protection sir. As always your hard work pays off. A was waiting for the Johnny cash music to come in at the end with ring of fire 🔥 😮👌🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@OperationSicily]

Haha, Cameron, you caught me again! 😂 Point taken on the face mask-I promise I’ll be getting one! 🛠️😅 And wow, I totally missed the opportunity for some Johnny Cash ‘Ring of Fire’-that would’ve been perfect! 🔥🎶 Thanks for the laugh and for always keeping me on my toes! Appreciate the support, mate. 😊👍

[@Fattedtimtamman]

The fire was wild. One so close to the house it probably wrecked the plaster and paint. The other one lighting all the grass on fire and not a care in the world. Let alone no water or hose available. Wild stuff mate

[@yolandagofigure]

🤷‍♀️

[@karenshertock3782]

What about the toxic fumes from the painted timber and probably veneer!

[@joannamacfarlane5404]

What a great yard; can't wait to see what you have in mind for landscaping ❤

[@joannamacfarlane5404]

​@@karenshertock3782 Oh KAREN! are you jealous?

[@glennryan4889]

We have a septic tank system here in Spain. We don't put any chemical cleaning products down into the drain, bleach etc. in order to keep the septic tank healthy. We clean with vinegar or Frosch brand cleaner. Also I've run a vent pipe from the tank, it all helps to keep the bacteria that break everything down ticking over. Use a bin at the side of the loo for paper products to help prevent blockages in the tank. Lots of video info about these things on youtube. Put a sachet of bakers yeast down the toilet now and again to boost the bacteria in the system. Another good tip is to dig a new tank with brick sides and a concrete top sealing it for your kitchen drain to go into. Keeps food residue and grease out of your septic system. I dug a 3 x 2 x 1.5 (depth) hole and put a bit of rubble in the bottom, works great. Good luck.

[@elizzy8754]

@@glennryan4889 You didn't mention what fun it is cleaning out the grease trap from time to time ❗😝

[@viviansimons7954]

All that effort should half left in bag added drop of water and left in sun mulch humus good for sale to replace all soil blowing in wind

[@joannamacfarlane5404]

Notice how he stacked the chairs to stop stuff flying around and remember all enclosed by probably 1 meter thick walls.

[@amechealle5918]

All it takes s one tiny ember floating into a neighbors yard. Sicilians don’t take kindly to strangers burning down their houses. I have Sicilian family members I should know.

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Joanna! 😊 Great eye for detail-yes, you’re absolutely right! Stacking the chairs was a quick way to prevent anything from flying around, especially with how breezy it can get here sometimes. 💨 And you're spot on about those thick walls! The villa’s walls are very thick, made from solid stone and concrete, so it’s all well-protected. 🏡🔨 Thanks so much for noticing and for following along with the journey 😊👍

[@shrory]

Do I see tree roots in the small chambe

[@2512MaTHias]

Felt pity for the wooden chairs going into the fire 😢 but maybe they weren’t worth a thought redoing them…

[@KevinGreaves-j8z]

Probably covered in rat urine

[@OperationSicily]

I totally get that, MaTHias! 😊 Trust me, it wasn’t an easy decision to burn those chairs-I would have loved to restore them if I could. Unfortunately, they were covered in rodent droppings and urine, making them too unsafe to keep, especially with my kids eventually staying here. 🐭😷 If there was any way to save them, I definitely would’ve tried! Thanks for understanding and for watching the journey-have you checked out my earlier videos? Would love to know what you think of the progress! 🔨😊

[@2512MaTHias]

@ I subscribed from the first video on and look forward to see your efforts and progress. Having a home in southern Italy must be a part of real luck and happiness… 😊👍

[@GMA4441]

Will you need to renovate the septic system?

[@OperationSicily]

Hey GMA4441, great question! 😊 Luckily, I think the septic system itself is in pretty good condition overall-just the concrete lid is damaged and will need fixing. As for the setup, I’m still figuring it out! There's a second, larger chamber that I assume acts as an overflow, but I’m learning as I go with this one. 🚧🔍 It’s all new territory for me, but that’s part of the adventure, right? Have you caught any of my earlier videos? There’s so much more to this renovation journey-would love to hear your thoughts! 😊🏡

[@GMA4441]

I watched all the videos you posted and will enjoy watching as you renovate this property. ❤

[@GMA4441]

Might want to watch some videos about septic tanks and septic fields. To me, being in California, and watching my famiky install septic systems, that unit seems to be installed very close to the house. Personally, I would install a new unit and run a leach field in the front yard, away from the well. Of course, that may not be something you plan, or local laws may prohibit it.

[@baz-wc4fi]

Well Done ,Good Work, Enjoyable to watch!! Bet all the neighbours closed all their windows! Muttering "The Mad Englishman" Ha Ha UK

[@OperationSicily]

Thanks for following along, it means the world! 🌍

[@danadevost5875]

Enjoying the renovation. Your work ethic is amazing.

[@OperationSicily]

Appreciate you taking the time, thank you! 🙌

[@ianmcmurtrie3345]

Nice bit of burning there! Well done. It's nice to see the place coming back to life, step by step.

[@OperationSicily]

Thank you so much, really appreciate it! 🌟

[@micaltoy824]

Good morning Everything looks great. Will you live here when you get finished with the renovation?

[@peggyclio1199]

Is it allowed making fire in Sicily now? Mh....doubt

[@HarleeRider]

Those dogs would drive me crazy! Maybe once you get moved in you can have a nice little talk with your neighbors and ask them to shut them up, lol. You're doing a great job! Looking forward to seeing the progression.

[@elizzy8754]

@@HarleeRider It would be better to ask the neighbour if you could get to know the dogs and then the dogs might not regard you as the enemy. They are defending their owner and their territory.

[@HarleeRider]

@elizzy8754 true!!!

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Harlee! Haha, I totally get what you mean-those dogs can definitely sound intense on camera! 🐕🔊😂 Honestly, they’re not too bad most of the time; they just go wild during feeding time over at the nearby farm. Once I move in, I might have to sweet-talk the neighbors (and maybe bribe the pups with treats) to keep the peace! 😂🍖 Thanks so much for the support-it really means a lot! 😊 Can’t wait to share even more progress with you. Have you checked out the earlier videos? Would love to hear what you think! 👍🏡

[@HarleeRider]

@OperationSicily Yes I've been watching your videos. You are living MY dream! If I could tomorrow I'd be living next door to you. I love animals. I have two dogs myself but the constant barking would drive me absolutely mad. So, like you said, maybe once you move in you can go and give the dogs a couple treats and they will love you and be your friends! If not, not sure what to tell you 😀😀😀. You're doing a great job with the house I'm quite impressed. You're cleaning style is definitely the style of a man, but nonetheless, that house is disinfected from the top to the bottom. I'm looking forward to watching more of your videos!

[@annbottelli5682]

My daughter lives just outside Catania in a rural area, there, no-one flushes toilet paper down the toilet. It is put in a lined waste bin and disposed of with the un-recyclable garbage. That garden is going to be beautiful!

[@lagringa7518]

Often the same here in Mexico if the houses are very old and of course the plumbing as well.

[@bwitched3810]

It’s really shaping up ,How long before power and water ,Your doing an amazing job

[@OperationSicily]

Thank you so much for your kind words! Power and water are in the works-just waiting on permits to move forward. 😊 Stay tuned for my new video this Sunday-it’s something a little different! Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@operation.sicily) and TikTok (@operationsicily) for more updates.

[@pattysands564]

Get a food coloring or something to change color to see if it’s coming out

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Patty, that’s an amazing idea! 😊 I’m definitely going to try adding some food coloring to check if it’s coming through. 💧🕵️‍♂️ Never would have thought of that-thanks for the tip! Appreciate you watching and helping out with suggestions. Have you seen my earlier videos? There’s a lot more progress to come, and I’d love to hear your thoughts! 👍😊

[@Cathy-ty3fp]

I bet your neighbours loved you with how close you are burning to their house 😮😂

[@kimberlyllamas5804]

Good thing there's a very thick stone wall between yards KAREN

[@OperationSicily]

@Cathy-ty3fp The fire was under control, and my neighbors are very relaxed about it-they often burn their own garden waste, too. 😊 Thanks for your concern, though! A new video is out this Sunday-stay tuned for more updates! Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@operation.sicily) and TikTok (@operationsicily).

[@aparecidacarvalho5263]

Amai a decisão de eliminar os móveis velhos com energia estagnadas.

[@fayeashcroft7066]

Hi 👋 great 👍 clean up 🧹 Do you think you might trade in your car for a Ute/twin cab /truck or buy a car trailer for getting supplies in ?? Much easier Love the burn pile and clean up Another idea is the large steel frame water containers that would help with water 💦 on the property Are you going to buy a fridge and set up a bedroom for yourself soon ?? Electricity on at the moment ??? And Solar panels coming ??? Fantastic videos Thanks Cheers 🍻 Australia 🇦🇺 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Faye, thanks so much for the awesome comment and all the suggestions! 😊 I’ve definitely been considering a van for supplies, but with the kids, it looks like I’ll be sticking with a large car for now. I’m thinking of getting a trailer, though-it would make life so much easier for these supply runs! 🚗🛠️ I’ll be working on the water well soon. From my calculations, it should hold around 600 liters, but the real test will be figuring out its refill rate. 💧 I’m currently staying in an Airbnb, but as soon as the house is a bit more livable, I’m excited to move in! 🛏️ As for electricity, there’s absolutely none on the property right now-not even a mains connection. I’m in the process of getting quotes for that. Solar panels are definitely on my radar, but I’m still weighing up the costs and figuring out how many I’d need to be fully self-sufficient. ☀️🔋 It’s a project I’m really keen to dive into! New video is coming out this Sunday-hope you’ll check it out! Thanks again for all your support from Australia! 🇦🇺😊

[@lagringa7518]

Goodness, still no rain in Sicily by November??? I think you'll have to find a way to save the rain off the roof when it does come. 😏

[@OperationSicily]

That’s a great point about burning grass to eliminate weed seeds and add potassium to the soil. I’ll definitely consider that for future garden prep! 😊 Also, yes, water conservation is a priority-I’m planning rainwater collection systems for when the rains finally come. Don’t miss my new video this Sunday, and follow me on Instagram (@operation.sicily) and TikTok (@operationsicily) for updates!

[@MarcinVoyager]

Nice bonfire. Pleasure to watch. 👌

[@OperationSicily]

Thanks so much, means a lot! 🙏

[@vittoriaspurle2469]

Great job Jonathan 👏👏👏 Please be careful with fire

[@OperationSicily]

Your encouragement keeps me going, thank you! 🙌😊

[@masodimontagna3771]

Great job and cleanliness, impressive when the piles and some lawn were burning..💪56👍😊👏

[@OperationSicily]

Thank you for the encouragement-it means a lot! 🌟

[@leighlaaltilio6672]

Me too, I love a good clean up! Nice and tidy, well done!!

[@OperationSicily]

Appreciate it, thank you! 😊

[@eveg4272]

A pumice stone would make the toilet white with a little scrub.

[@joyariffic4217]

If the fire wasn't legal, do you think that he would be doing it and posting it online??? He knows what he is doing

[@OperationSicily]

Thank you, you’re absolutely right! 😊 The fire is perfectly fine and allowed-my neighbors often have fires as well, and no one is bothered by it. Unfortunately, in today’s world, some people do tend to worry when they see a fire, but here in rural Sicily, it’s a completely normal and practical thing. I really appreciate your support and understanding! 🔥🌿

[@gailrn1]

Why are you burning all the furniture?

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Gail, I totally get why you’re asking! 😊 Trust me, I would have loved to save or donate that furniture if it had been in any kind of decent condition. The problem was that everything was completely infested with rodent droppings and urine, making it unsafe to keep-especially since my kids will eventually be staying here. 🐭😷 If it had been salvageable, I’d definitely have tried to repurpose it, but unfortunately, it just wasn’t possible. Thanks for watching, and I appreciate you following along on the journey! Have you checked out any of the earlier videos? 😊🏡

[@gailrn1]

@ yes, I have been watching since the first vlog. Good luck!

[@heatherstroud5304]

You need a comfy hat!

[@Grisby-g1q]

It is looking a lot better and can understand the point of burning old furniture rather than hauling it away but you were lucky those fires didn't burn your house and garden down. Maybe 1 fire ata time rather than 2 😏

[@GMA4441]

Might as well buy a new toilet.

[@OperationSicily]

You're absolutely right-the old toilet is definitely going! 🚽😅 I just wanted to get everything fully cleaned up first so I have a clear slate to work from. The whole bathroom will be getting a full makeover, including those lovely (but very retro) yellow flower tiles! 😂🌼 Can’t wait to share the transformation with you.

[@annstaudt7613]

Great Videos - Is a streemer the brand name?- we r looking for that type which comes with the brace - . perhaps Italy has a lawn funnel- we set it up , makes emptying the black bags easy.

[@annettemccabe3669]

...we got the battery Sterwin strimmer... BRILLIANT

[@florencemarsh8386]

Have a bucket of water handy with burn fire for emergency

[@OperationSicily]

Great tip, Florence, thank you! 😊👍 I actually had the fire fully monitored and planned out-kept a rake on hand to control it and chose a safe spot surrounded by non-flammable stone and concrete. 🔥🛠️ The time-lapse footage made it look more intense than it really was, but I appreciate the advice-better safe than sorry! Have you seen my earlier videos? There’s lots more to this renovation journey, and I’d love to hear what you think! 😊

[@kimberlyllamas5804]

It's looking great. Now that you're getting all of the debris out of the way it's time for a riding lawnmower!

[@OperationSicily]

Cheers, appreciate your support! 👍

[@That1ufo]

Did you check id an open fire is legal? likely most of the year it is not.

[@elizzy8754]

Agree. Definitely not permitted at any time in a residential street in the European country where I live. You have to compost, take to the municipal compost depot or borrow a municipal green waste shredder and bag it for collection.

[@lorenacaggiati2600]

Why fires? Why don't take to compost deposit? Totally illegal action👎

[@stacyrichards4047]

Sorry, just saw the commentary that its a well. Does it have water?

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Stacy, no worries at all! 😊 Yes, there’s actually a water well in the back garden, and it does have water sitting at the bottom. 💧 On the side of the house, there’s also a two-chamber septic pit, which has been another interesting discovery! 🚧 I’m planning to clean out the well soon to see if I can make it usable again. Thanks for watching-have you checked out my earlier videos? Lots more discoveries to come! 😊🔍

[@viviansimons7954]

Find out local fire laws 😮all that good firewood

[@OperationSicily]

Appreciate you taking the time, thank you! 🙌

[@annettemccabe3669]

Sterwin does a fantastic petrol mower for a bit over €300... it's the best I EVER had....

[@Rxdx-yn2gn]

No fire alarm?

[@Mar33333]

See you next week, great job!

[@OperationSicily]

Big thanks for the support, truly grateful! 💪

[@dcl1339]

I cannot believe you burnt all that furniture, I am sure you could have salvaged some chairs and the bed seemed a pretty one ...

[@yolandagofigure]

Yeahhh...no 🐀🐀🐀

[@OperationSicily]

Hey there! I totally get it-it’s heartbreaking to see furniture go up in flames. 😞 Trust me, if it had been safe to salvage, I absolutely would have kept it. Unfortunately, everything was heavily contaminated with rodent droppings and urine, making it too risky to reuse, especially with my kids eventually staying here. 🐭🛏️ It was a tough call, but safety had to come first. Thanks so much for watching and sharing your thoughts-I really appreciate it! 😊🙏

[@nevisscot7697]

Down with the moaners

[@lorraineflandina4320]

Does it ever rain there

[@deborahturner3122]

A lot of very hard work, but with great results. Congratulations on more progress at your villa.

[@OperationSicily]

Really grateful, thanks a lot! 🙏

[@cyngibson950]

why not put the furniture on the street and let someone take it

[@avengerofthedisenfranchised]

It's most possible a three chamber septic tanck. You can ask your neighborhood for water and hose. And ask them if there is yard fire season, already,please.

[@Rita-pp2jo]

Sediment in his well is water :)

[@amechealle5918]

I’m sure your neighbors just love you burning stuff so close to their house

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Amechealle, thanks for the concern! 😊 Just to clear things up-my neighbors are totally fine with it! In fact, they often have their own fires, so it’s pretty common around here. 🔥 I made sure to plan everything out, and the fire was well-controlled and monitored. The villa and surrounding walls are made of non-flammable stone and concrete, and I chose the spot carefully to keep everything safe. The time-lapse footage may have made it look more intense, but it was all done with caution to clear away old, contaminated furniture and garden waste. 🚧🌿 Thanks for watching-hope you enjoyed the rest of the video! 😊

[@stacyrichards4047]

Is that round thing in the yard a well or a fire pit?

[@OperationSicily]

That round thing in the yard is actually an old well! I’ve got big plans to renovate it and make it a feature of the garden. 😊 A new video is coming out this Sunday-don’t miss it! Follow me on Instagram (@operation.sicily) and TikTok (@operationsicily) for sneak peeks and updates.

[@PeterKiernan]

The rates come in through the toilet when the is no water in the toilet

[@edwardsierpowski3839]

You said you had a well. Not sure if you said if it had any water? But I workday suggest as a temporary measure you get a reasonable length of hose and a mechanical pump attachment that fixes onto a drill. That way you can have water for the garden, fire safety and any test flushing you need to do.

[@neutonrenda2303]

We used to burn here in our rural area outside Cape Town but now you will be fined and if one of your neighbours calls the fire department you get the bill.

[@nadiahicham2635]

Good job 👍🏻👏🏻💪🏻🔥

[@OperationSicily]

Thanks for sticking around, it means so much! 😊👍

[@viviennenoble4035]

Prickly Pear is considered a pest in Australia and is illegal to plant. I believe the fruit is beautiful to eat though.

[@OperationSicily]

Wow, I didn’t realize it was illegal to plant prickly pear in Australia-it’s fascinating how different countries handle it! The fruit is definitely a favorite here. 🌵🍐 Have you seen my latest video? I’ve been making steady progress on the villa! 🏡✨

[@neutonrenda2303]

Yes I can see him, probably using the tin can on a stick approach which is how we do it. 👍

[@christophercunningham3679]

For your fire, find a metal drum and a few bricks. Wood/organic ash is grate for the garden, but burning on the ground destroys more stuff then the fire gives back.

[@riley4545]

I doubt the rats ruined your porcelain! Most likely hard water and/or stains and acid chemicals and scrubbing. Quit wasting time on cleaning the toilet. Buy a new one. By the time you are done with parts and a seat and chemicals you will have spent enough for a new one. In the US a complete kit is around $100 ish, and that includes porcelain bowl, tank and wax ring and inside tank parts. Wink is the best rust stain remover in the world!

[@OperationSicily]

You make a fair point! The toilet has been an ongoing challenge, and I’ve been considering replacing it entirely. I’ve heard great things about pumice stones, so I might give that a go before making any final decisions. 😊 Don’t forget, my new video is out this Sunday-stay tuned for something different! Follow me on Instagram (@operation.sicily) and TikTok (@operationsicily) for more updates.

[@flamelily2975]

Prickly pears are delicious

[@mariafongoul]

Omg with the ground so dry and your burning garbage and brush!!!! I am surprised the police and fire department didn’t show up. Burning those perfectly good chairs, why didn’t you put them outside the gate for someone to take for free..

[@OperationSicily]

Hey Maria, I totally understand your concerns-it can definitely look risky on camera! 🔥 But rest assured, I was very careful. The fires were fully monitored the whole time and set up in a controlled area surrounded by non-flammable stone and concrete walls. In this rural part of Sicily, it’s actually quite common to burn dry garden waste like this, and I made sure it was as safe as possible. 😊🛠️ As for the chairs, I completely agree-it’s heartbreaking to burn furniture. But unfortunately, they were completely contaminated with rodent droppings and urine, making them unsafe to donate or even leave out for someone to take. 🪑🐭 Thanks so much for watching and sharing your thoughts-I really appreciate the feedback! 🙏😊

[@Kazar2020]

Sounds like a permanent dog fights championship in this village..🐕‍🦺

[@yolandagofigure]

😂

[@OperationSicily]

LOL