nell'Arena: House Hunter's International - A new home in Varese, Italy

The first and most often asked question we receive when we tell people we are moving to Italy is "Are you going to be on House Hunter International?" Well, we weren't as my company manages the move process for us but it did feel oddly similar to being part of HHI. Shane first visited nine houses and narrowed it down to three for me earlier in the week. We spent Thursday morning looking at all three and then "had lots to talk about" over lunch.

Here are the three we considered - which one would you choose?

House #1: Bi-level modern flat with views

This flat is 10 minutes to the city center and is on the top floor of a multi-unit building with great views from the wrap-around terrace. The downstairs includes a large entry way; big living area with mountain views and a fireplace; a big kitchen (by European standards) with lots of shelves; a guest bath with laundry; and the master suite with lots of wardrobes (closets) and a connecting master bath. The upstairs includes a loft area, a guest bedroom, another full bath and a connected bedroom-playroom for Evan and Elyse to share.

Pictures from House #1

Entry Way

Fireplace

Living Area

Terrace

Master Bedroom

Master Bath

Guest Bedroom

Loft Area

Upstairs Bathroom with Shower

Door connects to sleeping area

Kid's Sleeping Area

Views from Terrace

House #2: Mid-Century Villa with Room for Guests
Located 7 minutes from city center, this house has two master suites and includes six bedrooms and five bathrooms. The first floor includes a cellar, laundry and fireplace. The second floor houses the main living area including a kitchen and pantry, living room with fireplace, dining room with fireplace, a master suite and an additional bedroom and bathroom. Off of the living area is a large stone patio perfect for al fresco dining. The third floor has two bedrooms for the kids and includes a shared bathroom and then enough space for a master suite with a bedroom, office, dressing area and bath (with a very large tub). Beautiful garden areas surround the house.

Pictures from House #2 (they were painting when we visited)

Front of Building

Stairs to main floor

Fireplace in the basement (1 of 4)

Dining Room

Living Room

Kitchen

One of the many bedrooms

Another bedroom

Master Bath

Patio from Living & Dining Room

Backyard Gardens

House #3 Historic flat with private yard and close to town

Located less than 5 minutes from city center and across the street from a large park, this four bedroom - three bathroom flat is on the first and basement floor of a large historic home remodeled in the early 90's. The first floor has a nice entry way and the best eat-in kitchen of all the options. A living and dining area; master bed and bath room (not connected); guest/kids bath and one bedroom for the kids to share finishes out the top floor. The basement has a workout area; play area; large laundry room; two guest bedrooms (one to use as an office) and bath room. This is the only option with air-conditioning (the American's saying we need it and the Italians saying we don't). There is a large private yard for just for our use.

Pictures from House #3