Hi Kay
Yes, I believe that there is an ex pat community in Pescar that meet up regularly.If you log on to the House around Italy web site they have a section there giving information on the group.
we have not made contact with them yet, but I was considering doing so when we come over at the beginning of August.
If you can wait until I come back from Italy 10th June I should be able to give you some information regarding the builder.
Judy