As somebody who used to live in Milan and knows Lake Como quite well I have to admit I was sceptical how far you would get by applying your Californian measurements, but you nailed it! I fully agree with most of your comments. I would just like to add some cultural context: Lake Como is a retreat for wealthy Milanese and the Milanese style (and mentality) is very dry, cool and not in your face (which would be seen as vulgar). It is in many ways the opposite to the southern Mediterranean image most foreigners have from Italy - therefore no flowers, no lemon trees, no warmth, no columns. I personally prefer southern Italy nowadays as I don’t need the cold greys and anti-coziness of Milan - but of course there is a reason why it is the design capital of the world. You are also spot on about the value of properties above the Lake: They are generally much cheaper than on the waterfront because they are abundant- there are even half abandoned villages in the mountains. And there is a reason: It rains - a lot! And it can become quite cold. But the views are breathtaking anyay!
Alas, that subtle austerity might have characterized Milanese of previous generations, but have you experienced the Corso Venezia in wintertime? Even though it is no longer allowed in America, thousands of animals are still sacrificed each year so that stylish Milanese can bundle up for Christmas shopping. Ostentation has become universal. We paragons of good sense can no longer blame mongrel tastes on Napoleon III, or Valentino, or Berlusconi. Typical of the world's most progressive cities, there aren't many born-there Milanese left. For example, I focus on design and decry that even though Gucci and Fendi are now headquartered in Milan they and their flamboyance originated elsewhere (Florence and Rome, respectively). Perhaps that is why some of the grandest villas on the lake feature colorful flowers and voluptuous statuary or it it the other way around?
@@archiegoodwinjr You are right. I should have made more clear that I was referring to the "old Milanese" - the families which ran the city for centuries - the finances, the fairs, the trade, textiles, the industries - who look down on the Nouveau Riche showing off with their bling, parties and money. The villa in the video - as it was built 100 years ago and renovated now - is very much an example of this reserved and private mentality of the "Borghesia Milanese". Obviously Milan is a global metropolis nowadays and I have no insight how much power and influence those old families still have.
Arvin. You can apply your knowledge to any part of the jet-setting world. I am new to you channel but am literally taking notes. Please keep sharing this world-class content!
This is one of the most brilliant ideas on youtube, totally going against the grain, love it. You are shown these homes and they look great, this dude gives you another perspective, i expect folks will start doing this too when they catch on.
Ervin, I must say that I am surprised. Really. You were positive about this property for most of this video. Another good video. Greetings from Poland.
Terrazzo always reminds me of old commercial flooring. Something you'd see in a 50+ year old train station or office building. Kitchen looks like a repurposed subway.
To be sure this is a GREAT property! The five storey aspect is ideal for the location. The layout is a bit weird, but not all luxury houses need cavernous uber formal rooms, in fact, for this villa's primary purpose as a vacation home, the somewhat relaxed and intimate spaces are great to have. The pool infinity pool is one of the cherries on top, and just look at that fourth floor! That level has the best views in the villa! And the fact that there's a snack kitchenette on the top floor just sublime! I love how they incorporated mosaics and other fine details into the rooms.
other advantages of the elevation are the lower humidity, better air quality, less noise coming from the busy streets surrounding the lake and from the boat traffic. And: no gnats. On the other hand, the charm seems to be that of a high-end school dormitory.
@@guitar911rock Last year I lived in the northern Alps, about 3 km from a popular small lake. So I can assure you that living in a mountainous region with steep mountain slopes at lake level is not the best choice. Lots of tourists, less sunlight during a large part of the year. On sunny weekends it can be like being in a noisy funnel. If you live in a hilly area instead of a mountainous area, that's different.
So another point with Demand and supply is that in central europe you cant just buy a hill side plot and build. You just dont get the permit. I think thats what is very different to the usa, the build hillside Homes are possibly the only ones ever there.
I’m italian and I’m addicted to your channel. I just wanna let you know that in italy is very difficult to get permit to build new houses so supply it’s limited and will be limited for a long time
I can’t count the amount of mansions I’ve watched since finding your channel. I already seen Enes tour them but you make it easy to rewatch with your small details they miss.
I’m one of the ‘real ones’ mate…! 😅💪 I love your channel. I’ve been addicted to it for a while now. 😂 I’ll be very happy to become a member. Can’t wait. 👍
Another great video, Arvin. I remember watching this home last year and thinking it was so nice, but thanks to your amazing channel I better understand how have “taste” when looking for AirBnBs and eventually our own home. Def my favorite real estate channel on YT - keep ‘em coming!
I have a much more critical eye for homes since watching your videos, I really appreciate it. Lake Como is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. I’ve stayed there three times so far, lakefront only. When I go to Lake Como, I have no desire to stay up in the mountains of Vermont, for that I’ll visit Vermont. If this house was on the lake, and had more traditional finishes inside that gave it warmth and character then I would overlook the small rooms. Because, I could walk out to the dock, get into my vintage Riva speedboat and cruise the lake. I don’t see the appeal of finishing the interior of a 100+ year old four level home like a modern hotel. The color palette of ‘oatmeal explosion’ and beige may compliment the lifeless built-in cabinetry, but the lack of character is just too stark and plain. This house just reeks of vacation rental, but in the wrong location. (Personal preference, I don’t like kitchen countertops made from flooring materials straight out of city hall). Still hoping you review Enes’ recent video on the Los Feliz house. Thanks again Arvin.
Could agree more. We have the same material as flooring material in school and other public buildings. The small old window size was also a major drawback.
I am loving your videos! But can you also show us a “good” property review? I’m curious to know what makes a property worth it in your opinion, since we already have many negative reviews! Keep up the amazing work! Unbiased, real, and always walking us, dummies, through your line of thought ♥️♥️
Another awesome video from Arvin. That view from that pool house is just incredible. Really like that it has a kitchen there. I can imagine how gorgeous the sunset and sunrises must be from there. Would make for some beautiful photos.
Lived in Gaeta, Italy, right on the beach in a Penthouse arrangement. In the winter, you have windy, rain storms that would rattle those rather flimsy outside doors. The purpose of those powered doors or persianas is to protect the glass doors otherwise they would fly open. Persianas are interlocking steel slats like security doors in the US. The wind across that long valley would rattle the whole house and you feel like the whole building was going to be blown down. With those outside steel doors closed it's very dark and uncomfortable. Don't go there in the winter.
This is a beautiful lake Como Villa that has a nice view of the Lake. I like the master bedrooms, the bedrooms. I like the master bathroom, I like the bathroom with the pink marble. I like the French doors, and French windows. I like the balconies and the view of the lake. I like the lap pool. The automatic window shutters are amazing.
It really is lovely with a relaxed vibe. Funny that you mentioned it because the first thing I noticed is that you can’t see the views from a seated position. The views are spectacular.
Great video. Truly beautiful piece of land and property. I definitely am not a fan of the first floor of the main house, but everything else was very nice. Really am enjoying this channel and am happy I subscribed.
When he showed me the place, I instantly fell in love. It was my Powerball dream home! The rooms were the perfect size for two people and a few dogs and cats. But as I daydreamed while trying to sleep in my own crumbling house, I wondered: who on earth do you call when your plumbing backs up? I’m 1000% sure that would happen to me! d happen to me.
Lol! Terrazzo Terrazzo Terrazzo! Back in the 70s, my mom dated the guy who is credited with bringing Terrazzo to the United States. I forget his name, I just called him Uncle Louie. I was very young, I just remembered him being very nice & treating us well. Anyway, hearing Terrazzo so many times brought back some old memories.
We had that issue with the double beds recently. To be fair it wasn't the resort's intention. But it was 4 of us in the room and three beds. Two full and one twin. So instead of two people having to share a full, we thought it would be a good idea to push the two full beds together. However, not only was there the usual little sink in the middle, the beds weren't the same height. haha. We made do. At least the one in the middle could comfortably sleep at the edge of the mattress without worrying about falling on the floor.
Im glad you mentioned the the location hi on the hill. It reminds me the high end houses in Malibu/Laguna Hills. Very nice views, all your vistors want to get to the Beach,shopping/ restaurants. You feel like a Tourist in your own neighborhood
really nice, always a pleasure to watch with comments and some real professional opinions about the houses. I feel like they have enough land in case they wanted to make the house a little larger that would give a better view of the lake.
Hi Arvin, love your videos. Just a bit of info, Jacuzzi tub is different from hot tub. Jacuzzi is the name of the Italian family that lends the name to the brand. A Jacuzzi tub has jets, that's what differentiates it from a regular tub, not the heat. Cheers.
Arvin, I must say you were using an apple Californian eye to critique a vintage Maserati. I feel you have missed the beautiful work that has been done to restore this property faithfully to its original state but maintaining the hundred year history. No, you’re not gonna get a large expensive rooms, it’s not a Gordy Mac mansion it’s a slice of modern history. Believe me many period Italian properties do not still look like this. Saying saying that the house very much looks like a second home. But the real story of this property is the renovation that was done. This property cannot be replicated in this area, It’s the last property with a Lakeview and the first property with land and the village to its back. It’s beautiful…..
Hope there’s an elevator. You’re right about the lower level living rooms/library. If it were possible I would have preferred opening up walls that probably would have required structural work but would have resulted in a really great house. Not sure if the exterior is historically protected but I just want to drop the window sills to near the floor level.
How did Anes become such a big person in property? He is not the most articulate person, he doesn't present things in the best way. What elevated him to this?
At 32:00 I agree Mikey's shower had much worse marble tiles (weird sizes, not book matched, etc.) but the shower head in the master looked cheaper than Mikey's.
Great video.. Not buying a luxury house anytime soon. But from how this house look like. I believe one can really build a nice house depending on how they use the space
@@ArvinHaddadOfficial Producer Michael's video of it was funny. Flat out saying parts of the house were unlivable in front of the developer. But, kind of making a joke about it (I don't think he was joking).
Awesome video as always. Would love to see a review of the 7 floor property in Paris, the one with an inside pool that was around 100 million or the 27M italian villa in Beverly Hills. Ps: both are from Enes
I love these long video’s. Ironically I see a new Enes video and I wait for Arvid to critique it. I would like to get Arvid a fan, he looks so hot in his room!
@@ArvinHaddadOfficial Ah, well next video I hope to see you cool as a cucumber. Can’t wait for the subscription and your live streams. Congrats on your channel doing so well! ❤️❤️❤️
Hello Harvin, I follow your channel because you have a lot to say about reviewing houses, but you got this one completely wrong, and I m going to tell you why. first of all, in Italy houses that old to be renovated have to go under the reviews of the BELLE ARTI , which mean you cannot touch the exterior of the house and try to maintain the original as possible. Parking lot yes, it is on the lower level but in 1909 garages weren't exactly a thing. scale, if you see the house in person you will notice that is not narrow and tall, is actually pretty wide. the narrow rooms mentioned by you, you should know that when in early 19 hundred there wasn't central heat the Maine source of heat was fireplaces, that why there are quiet a few in these houses, but not in the bedroom, mostly in family room where family gather for eat or chat., you must know that a small room it is easy to warm up then a big one. view, how can you pretend to se the lake at that altitude..... of course you are going to see the sky, that why there are terraces, to go outside and have a view of the lake. the road, yes it will take 20 minute, but to go to downtown Como, you don't need to take any boat and right at the bottom the is a village called Argegno where you can find everything you need without to go to Como. you keep complaining about the size of the room without thinking when these house was build, remember, small room are easy to warm up. look at the thhickness of the wall when you see a window, that because this house like many in lake Como where build with Moltrasio stone, average thickness of the perimeter wall are 10 inches , which keep eat in winter and freshness in summer, you CANNOT touch these wall or the house came down.....keep going.....you keep saying that annoying you to go to the other side of the lake..... but why you have to go to the other side of the lake....I think you don't know the area very well , you don't have to get on the boat for tomato, the balcony on the back that Enes showed, it show the village of Pigra and there is grocery, shops and they are by walking distance. I didn't talked about interior because that is to personal, everyone have a different teste. Ill keep looking at your video specially for LA mansion, where you actually don't talk about transition spaces between rooms, which are mandatory in Italy, basically you cannot open a room and be in the bathroom like 99 per cent of the houses I America, and you want to talk about the bidet........Ciao Arvin if you'll ever came toComo shoot me a message and ill walk you around.
I was comparing the property with another property on the lake …. I would personally rather be on the lake and see the water from the living room and have a boat by the dock
@@ArvinHaddadOfficial that s right, anyone have the right to choose where to live but you cannot looking for particular features in a house build in 1909. ciao.
I agree with the place being too neutral. I got the vibe of a business holiday. Here to do business in Italy, have meetings (no distracting views at table) and then relax in the evenings. Edit: I was thinking about Pompeii. A lot of the villas had paintings all over the walls. I was even reading somewhere that our idea of plain white marble sculptures adorning temples and such is not correct. Close examination of these finds often reveals traces of paint. It probably flaked off over time because I don't know if marble will hold on to paint very well. It might be well for the owners to rethink some of their design choices - especially of the outer look and the art on the walls.
I guess the lakeside vs. hillside struggle depends on what use you are planning for your estate and where you come from. If this is something like your holiday or weekend house it might fulfill other needs than a regular home. As if you are Italian, whereever you live in Italy, the sea is never that far away, that water access might be the most important aspect. You just want to have a secluded, calm and cool property during the summer time. If you come from the northern side of the Alps you might just prefer a warmer surrounding during the winter time than you have in central Europe, thus you rather want an upside home because of the light during the winter days. And having a heated pool does make a lot more sense. It's understandable, that you want to enjoy the features the lake may offer. But if you are a busy person from Milan or Switzerland, the level of relaxation the height and distance brings may just be the factor you want to have. It's the same like all the skyscrapers in New York. It's just another mental calmness standing that far above the ground. Air and light give you the freedom, a valley'll never fulfill.
Would be curious to see more videos on expensive (particularly) Asian cities such as Tokyo, Singapore and Hong Kong. I imagine the lack of space in apartments could be interesting to get your comments on
@@clumsykoala3699 I linked him the Shinjuku penthouse video from Tokyo Portfolio but other than that there's really not a lot of comparable real estate in Japan compared to other parts of the world; it's not like the big properties in Roppongi Hills or Azabu come up for sale often either so getting a property tour (especially a public one) is going to be difficult. HK property is falling in value as businesses and people leave due to China influence. Singapore could be good and there's actually some pretty interesting properties in India that another channel whose name eludes me now does tours of.
@@ArvinHaddadOfficial If you don't mind not understanding what they're saying (because it's in cantonese, I really like this channel personally): ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-g5REiZIm8Ao.html In terms of more traditional youtube videos in Elgihs, here's a channel I found: House: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-I2-YKRqNFog.html Apartment: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-IhKjJNtwzbk.html I can't speak for Singapore or Tokyo, but in Hong Kong such videos have only caught on recently (at least compared to the west) because most people still heavily favour tours themselves (in fact it was not uncommon for local families to go on tours of new developments with no intention to buy as a weekend activity). Centraline (one of the main local agents) has lots of listings, some with videos or VR tours (see below, look for the red and white play button next to the date, or the yellow and white 'VR' icon) hk.centanet.com/findproperty/en/list/transaction/Villa-Athena_2-XSTNTHIOHN?q=960772343c9 Hope this helps and keep up the good work! On a separate note, maybe you could do your own 'concepts' for lots on sale? Obviously critiquing and actually designing is two different areas, but it would be nice to get even some guidelines from your perspective!
It would be great to have more videos of homes in Europe and Australia/NZ. There are some insanely priced homes in London, and some interesting mansions on the harbour in Sydney.
Nice to see a video that is not LA or Dubai, why h get repetitive. It would be good to dive in how Italians may use their houses differently from people in the USA.
Between getting the house in top of the mountain or lower on the the lake it no brainer to take the lower one case all the action and lake activity is down there I’m sure similar house in lower level is double the price Cheers
Enes is someone that really likes to control things and he strikes me as someone that really cares what others think about him and how he’s being perceived 😂
It’s a lot of stairs to lug a 20kg suitcase, with 10kg hand luggage up, just to get to the front door. Lather, rinse, repeat for getting to the bedrooms…
" Hi my name's Armin....i shit on parades for a living" hahahahh. Im messing, it's actually refreshing that a realtor actually cares enough about clients money that they'd be honest about what the client isn't seeing. When i buy youre my LA guy 100%
I love how Enes isn't intoxicated in the trap on wealth and its trappings. Just because something is extremely expensive doesn't necessarily mean that the value appended is equal to the asking price. He calls ball and strikes in most every marketing pitch.
That sitting room is not really cosy, feels a bit cold. And the library is not really a library. And the TV lacks a sound system? You can get far better in Italy! Lionard and Romolini agencies here in YT have many fine tours.
Hi Arvin, really love your videos. Could you do a review of a home in the Boston area? The Richest did a walk through of Tom Brady’s former Brookline mansion and it’s not a true realtor breakdown but it has some good shots and the house itself looks gorgeous but sold >$5 million below its asking price
I'm really surprised that Arvin didn't talk about that boring kitchen wall of tile over the counter. Why not put in some cabinets or, better yet, a few windows to brighten up the space? What can you do with wall of tile? You can't hang art, you can't put up shelves, you can't do anything. It's just a huge dead space in an already underwhelming and uninspiring house. If you want just a huge wall of tile, at least use some colorful Italian tile with nicely painted designs. And why, oh why didn't Arvin hit them for that godawful sunroom? That has to be the most cheerless sunroom I've ever seen. It looks like something you'd see in a hospital.
