[blackbrokkoli]

However as someone who lived in the area I want to point out that the offer is neither a scam nor a meme.

There are people buying these houses (not in droves), and a few communities achieved repopulation. The 1€ offers are an expression of a larger sentiment of the local gov having genuine interest in you moving there, and a promise that they won't drown you in needless bureaucracy or otherwise push you out. And, if you interested in such a renovation project, it's a genuinely great offer ofc.

Agreed on your points on quality of living though, that is indeed the crux.