What advice would you give ?

[Violetta]

I love it, Sue!
When we told friends in England we were moving house in Italy, I began to acquire an almost apologetic tone when I explained repeatedly that, no, the property didn't require any work. I'm sure a few people didn't honestly believe us. And we only regained our credibility in others' eyes when we finally brought the builders in to do a bit of tidying up at the back! It certainly helped "bond" with a few new expat friends too.
Re question: winter rent and learn the language are imperative. Also, don't automatically think wreck or middle of nowhere location.