Italian town giving away houses, is buying internationally smart?

[Joe Vastola]

Ollolai is a small Italian town that has just announced they are selling 200 fixer upper homes for literally 1 dollar. Am I crazy to think this is legitimate or even worth my time exploring?

http://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/a15928230/ollolai-italy-one-dollar-houses/

On a bigger level, do you think it's worth exploring properties in other countries or do the headaches and risk far outweigh the benefits. I've never really considered it, but curious to hear about other people's experiences. Thanks BP!