0:00:02 > 0:00:03Welcome to Escape To The Country.
0:00:03 > 0:00:06Today I'm standing on top of England's tallest cathedral,
0:00:06 > 0:00:11and having climbed the 332 steps to get here, trust me, it certainly feels like it.
0:00:11 > 0:00:15It's also home to what is thought to be the world's oldest working clock.
0:00:15 > 0:00:19Where am I? Stick around for just a few more seconds and I'll tell you.
0:00:31 > 0:00:36Today we're helping a couple swap the suburbs for a taste of the good life.
0:00:36 > 0:00:41This is the produce of your very own vineyard.
0:00:41 > 0:00:43Wow, now that's different!
0:00:43 > 0:00:46Our properties are a real revelation.
0:00:46 > 0:00:48Wow!
0:00:48 > 0:00:51And the mystery house is set to impress.
0:00:51 > 0:00:55Oh, my goodness. That is massive!
0:00:57 > 0:01:00If you know your historic buildings, you'll have recognised
0:01:00 > 0:01:05the great spire of Salisbury Cathedral stretching up behind me, here in the heart of Wiltshire.
0:01:05 > 0:01:10Arguably one of the finest examples of ecclesiastical gothic architecture anywhere
0:01:10 > 0:01:14in the land, but its location was something of a matter of chance.
0:01:14 > 0:01:17Legend has it that back in 1219, an arrow was shot from a nearby hill
0:01:17 > 0:01:21and where it landed would be the site of the new building.
0:01:21 > 0:01:25Given that Salisbury is surrounded by marshy wetlands, odds are that if this building
0:01:25 > 0:01:30had been built 100m in any other direction, it wouldn't be here today.
0:01:30 > 0:01:35So it just goes to prove that even back in medieval England, location was everything.
0:01:35 > 0:01:40Gateway to the West Country, Wiltshire is land-locked by five counties,
0:01:40 > 0:01:42including Hampshire to the east,
0:01:42 > 0:01:44with Dorset and Somerset to the west,
0:01:44 > 0:01:47but this 2,000 square mile rural landscape
0:01:47 > 0:01:52has an identity all of its own, forged by 5,000 years of history.
0:01:52 > 0:01:57It's home to one of England's most iconic ancient monuments, Stonehenge.
0:01:57 > 0:02:00If you prefer your history slightly more recent,
0:02:00 > 0:02:03the last millennia has left an indelible mark on the county too,
0:02:03 > 0:02:07with over 35 medieval market towns and villages to explore.
0:02:09 > 0:02:13The wealth of natural stone in the region - chilmark, bath, chalk
0:02:13 > 0:02:16and flint, has helped create a mix of properties, and you can find
0:02:16 > 0:02:20everything here from timber-framed Tudor buildings, thatched cottages
0:02:20 > 0:02:22to Victorian farmhouses.
0:02:23 > 0:02:26So as you can see, there is plenty on offer here in Wiltshire
0:02:26 > 0:02:30and a very good chance that today's buyers won't be disappointed.
0:02:30 > 0:02:35IT specialists Simon and Siobhan met at work 18 months ago,
0:02:35 > 0:02:40but they're currently living 50 miles apart in Basingstoke and Wimbledon.
0:02:40 > 0:02:43So they're not only moving to a new part of the country -
0:02:43 > 0:02:47they'll be moving in together for the very first time.
0:02:47 > 0:02:51So what kind of home will bring this long-distance couple together?
0:02:51 > 0:02:54I think if we're going this far out, we want to be detached.
0:02:54 > 0:02:59The classic country kitchen, really, with the breakfast table, would be lovely.
0:02:59 > 0:03:04Because we have the ability to work from home, we're really looking for
0:03:04 > 0:03:11space that we've either got one room that's big enough for both of us to work in there or two small rooms.
0:03:11 > 0:03:16I would love a nice, large or relatively sized bathroom.
0:03:16 > 0:03:24I love just lazing in a bath with a book, with a glass of wine for an hour until I'm pruney.
0:03:24 > 0:03:28So lots of room will be a must, but what kind of property are they looking for?
0:03:28 > 0:03:33I prefer old-character, small, beamy things, but you wouldn't, would you?
0:03:33 > 0:03:35So that's fine, that's a compromise.
0:03:35 > 0:03:38- We can compromise. - Yes, we can compromise!
0:03:40 > 0:03:43It seems while Simon wants a cosy period home,
0:03:43 > 0:03:46Siobhan is looking for something more light and spacious.
0:03:46 > 0:03:52And on top of that, while Simon wants up to four acres of land, Siobhan wants just the one.
0:03:52 > 0:03:57But keen tennis player Siobhan may have other plans for their land.
0:03:57 > 0:04:00Ideally, if we found the property that either had
0:04:00 > 0:04:04the space for a tennis court or actually had the tennis court, that would be fantastic.
0:04:06 > 0:04:09Siobhan and Simon are financing their move with the sale
0:04:09 > 0:04:13of Siobhan's London maisonette and combined savings and equity.
0:04:13 > 0:04:17- So how much will they have to play with?- Ideally £700,000.
0:04:17 > 0:04:25We're willing to go up to £750,000 if it's really the property that we want to get.
0:04:29 > 0:04:31We'll be starting today's property search
0:04:31 > 0:04:34in the countryside between Bath and Salisbury Plain,
0:04:34 > 0:04:36which has a good road and rail network
0:04:36 > 0:04:38to the rest of the county and beyond.
0:04:38 > 0:04:41Great news for Siobhan's commute to work.
0:04:41 > 0:04:43We've lined up three stunning homes to view,
0:04:43 > 0:04:49but as always, I won't reveal their price tags until Siobhan and Simon have had a good look around.
0:04:49 > 0:04:55Just to shake things up, we'll throw in the mystery house - but will it suit both of them?
0:04:57 > 0:04:59- Hi, guys.- Hi. Pleased to meet you.
0:04:59 > 0:05:02Hi, Siobhan, hi, Simon. Nice to see you.
0:05:02 > 0:05:07Now, you're undertaking this foray into your future with a very healthy budget, aren't you?
0:05:07 > 0:05:09- 750 or so?- Yeah, or so. Or so.
0:05:09 > 0:05:15We really want to be around 750 where we close, but in today's market, we are looking and we can go higher
0:05:15 > 0:05:18if we need to, so we're looking at anything around 800 as well.
0:05:18 > 0:05:21OK, good. Now, you are cash buyers.
0:05:21 > 0:05:23Yes, very lucky to be in that position.
0:05:23 > 0:05:27- Very lucky indeed, so you could move like that.- Yes.
0:05:27 > 0:05:31- It's nice and sunny, a good day to go house-hunting. Shall we? - Yes.- Let's go.
0:05:33 > 0:05:35So, for a maximum budget of £800,000,
0:05:35 > 0:05:39Siobhan and Simon want a detached three to four bedroom house
0:05:39 > 0:05:42with plenty of space, light and character features.
0:05:42 > 0:05:46Their must-haves include a country-style kitchen, room enough
0:05:46 > 0:05:48for a couple of offices, a spacious bathroom
0:05:48 > 0:05:52and anywhere between one and four acres of land, but with
0:05:52 > 0:05:54their varying tastes in style,
0:05:54 > 0:05:57will we be able to find a property that suits them both?
0:06:01 > 0:06:05I'm hoping our first house will be spot-on, as at two miles from
0:06:05 > 0:06:11the village of Atworth it should be remote enough for Simon, but close enough to amenities for Siobhan.
0:06:11 > 0:06:15It's also just eight miles to Chippenham with its direct train link into London.
0:06:15 > 0:06:20Atworth offers up a slice of typical Wiltshire country life, with one pub, almost as many
0:06:20 > 0:06:24farm animals as residents, and who needs supermarkets
0:06:24 > 0:06:27when you have a farm shop stocked with local produce?
0:06:27 > 0:06:34Our property is set amongst farmland and there's a surprise in store for Siobhan.
0:06:34 > 0:06:37Right, Siobhan, keep your eyes nice and shut.
0:06:37 > 0:06:39It's the first house we're going to show you.
0:06:39 > 0:06:42All will be revealed in a moment.
0:06:42 > 0:06:48Right, turn around that way and open your eyes.
0:06:48 > 0:06:49Wow!
0:06:49 > 0:06:51- How about that?- Tennis court!
0:06:51 > 0:06:56- That's a bonus, isn't it.- Fantastic, I didn't expect to see that here.
0:06:56 > 0:06:58That comes free. It's the house that's expensive.
0:06:58 > 0:07:01That's what we've really come to look at.
0:07:01 > 0:07:04I'm not sure it's something we'd have picked, naturally.
0:07:04 > 0:07:08If we saw that in a brochure, I think it would seem too long, like it was three sections
0:07:08 > 0:07:12and as a result I don't think we'd be selecting that on to the list to go and view.
0:07:12 > 0:07:14You wanted country cosy. That's what this is.
0:07:14 > 0:07:16I think we think too hard.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19We're both in that field.
0:07:19 > 0:07:21So sometimes we don't let our feelings go enough.
0:07:21 > 0:07:23So now, we'll let our feelings go.
0:07:23 > 0:07:25Hooray! Let's see what you make of this.
0:07:25 > 0:07:30Originally three separate cottages, dating from the 1700s,
0:07:30 > 0:07:33this house has character and space in equal measure.
0:07:33 > 0:07:39I'm sure it will get an emotional reaction on some level - let's just hope it's a positive one.
0:07:39 > 0:07:45Let's start in here, shall we, one of two reception rooms this property has for you.
0:07:45 > 0:07:49They've got it set up as a dining room, but you can do what you like with it.
0:07:49 > 0:07:53- I'm seeing traditional futures, the nice beam, which is good.- Good.
0:07:53 > 0:07:55The open fireplace, which is great. That's good.
0:07:55 > 0:07:57It's fantastic, there's so much light in here
0:07:57 > 0:08:02that you get light from all the different angles, and even though it's a through-room, it's perfect.
0:08:02 > 0:08:06Who's the cautious one out of you two?
0:08:06 > 0:08:08- Simon?- What?
0:08:08 > 0:08:11Why am I not surprised? Come and have a look through here.
0:08:11 > 0:08:14Moving on from the dining room, your second reception room.
0:08:14 > 0:08:19It's very large. It's very deceptive coming through here.
0:08:19 > 0:08:20You don't expect it to be so big.
0:08:20 > 0:08:24It's a great space. A good-sized space. Nice, blank canvas, really.
0:08:24 > 0:08:26So how are we doing? Marks out of ten?
0:08:26 > 0:08:28We mark harshly!
0:08:28 > 0:08:30No surprise.
0:08:30 > 0:08:33So for me at the moment, we're about a seven and a half.
0:08:33 > 0:08:36- OK.- I think I've gone up to an eight at the moment.- Ooh!
0:08:36 > 0:08:39- The good news is there's room for improvement.- Indeed.
0:08:39 > 0:08:42OK, two more points to find. Let's see what we can do. Come through here.
0:08:42 > 0:08:46'Let's see if we can notch up those extra marks in the kitchen.
0:08:46 > 0:08:49'It's on the other side of the dining room.'
0:08:49 > 0:08:53OK. Simon, the kitchen. Your domain, I believe?
0:08:53 > 0:08:56- Yes. Yes.- There you are.
0:08:56 > 0:09:00All of a sudden it doesn't seem as light as the other rooms.
0:09:00 > 0:09:02Every room will have its pros and cons.
0:09:02 > 0:09:06In every house there is one particular room which is always,
0:09:06 > 0:09:07you know, a bit of a thing.
0:09:07 > 0:09:12It may be that for you guys the kitchen is the thing you would want to pour more of yourselves into.
0:09:12 > 0:09:15That's maybe just the unfortunate thing.
0:09:15 > 0:09:19- We were wanting to come in and go, "That is great as it is." - You want it all on a plate!
0:09:19 > 0:09:20We just have to do a bit of work.
0:09:20 > 0:09:23You're making me work, so I'm going to make you work for it, too.
0:09:23 > 0:09:30But there may be a solution, as right next door is an annexe with two rooms and a small kitchen.
0:09:30 > 0:09:36So with a bit of work, they could combine this whole area to make a whopper of a country-style kitchen.
0:09:36 > 0:09:40What's more, upstairs has all the space they need.
0:09:40 > 0:09:44It comes complete with a family bathroom and four guest bedrooms - two singles
0:09:44 > 0:09:51and two doubles, so plenty of space for an office or two, but just wait until they see the master bedroom.
0:09:51 > 0:09:54- Right.- Oh, my goodness.
0:09:54 > 0:09:56- Come on in. Come on in.- OK.
0:09:56 > 0:09:58Nice. Not expecting that.
0:09:58 > 0:10:00There is a lot of nice going on.
0:10:00 > 0:10:02- Is this good nice?- Good nice.
0:10:02 > 0:10:05Siobhan, your face is a picture. What are you thinking?
0:10:05 > 0:10:10I think it's weird because you first come in, the first thing you see is pink.
0:10:10 > 0:10:12Then you see all this space.
0:10:12 > 0:10:18I know that the beams are quite low, but character is just amazing.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21- What about storage?- What about storage? There's some there.
0:10:21 > 0:10:24- Right.- Built in, OK? But there is also a door over there.
0:10:24 > 0:10:27- Ah.- Shall we go have a look?
0:10:27 > 0:10:28Shall we?
0:10:31 > 0:10:33There we are. You wanted some storage.
0:10:33 > 0:10:36Oh, my goodness. That's a lot of storage.
0:10:36 > 0:10:41Simon, come and have a look in here. This, I think, is what you want.
0:10:43 > 0:10:47- That's very good!- Very good? I'd say that was brilliant.
0:10:47 > 0:10:49That is great.
0:10:49 > 0:10:54- Now, while he's lounging in the bath, you can be down there playing tennis- Yes.
0:10:54 > 0:10:59- And you can lie here and keep score. - Yeah, yeah, ace!
0:10:59 > 0:11:01- Boom, boom. - It's absolutely fantastic.
0:11:01 > 0:11:06That tennis court is definitely a winning feature of this property,
0:11:06 > 0:11:08but will the rest of the garden be a hit?
0:11:08 > 0:11:14It's just under an acre, so spot-on for Siobhan, but will it be big enough for Simon?
0:11:14 > 0:11:17Right, let's come out of the back of the property.
0:11:17 > 0:11:21Have a look at this extraordinary building. Now you know what goes on inside...
0:11:23 > 0:11:25There it is.
0:11:25 > 0:11:29Your £750,000, how do you think it stacks up against this little lot?
0:11:29 > 0:11:31I'm thinking sort of 680.
0:11:31 > 0:11:33- 680?- Yes.
0:11:33 > 0:11:40- Optimistic.- He's tough, isn't he? I would possibly go for 750.- 750.
0:11:40 > 0:11:47Well, the actual figure on this is offers in excess of 695.
0:11:47 > 0:11:50Oh, my goodness. I'm very surprised.
0:11:50 > 0:11:55- Bet you hate it when he's right, don't you?- We're not competitive!- No.
0:11:55 > 0:11:58Look, there's a few things that you've got to explore on your own.
0:11:58 > 0:12:01Not least of which, of course, the tennis court, the veg patch
0:12:01 > 0:12:05and take a look at that annexe and see how the office space may work there for you.
0:12:05 > 0:12:08Go and enjoy. I'll catch you later.
0:12:08 > 0:12:10Fantastic. Thank you.
0:12:11 > 0:12:14I'd say that's a pretty good start.
0:12:14 > 0:12:21For offers over £695,000, this could be as much as £100,000 under budget,
0:12:21 > 0:12:23and there is a lot of property.
0:12:23 > 0:12:27Two reception rooms, five bedrooms and a self-contained annexe.
0:12:27 > 0:12:30The acre of garden comes with the added bonus of a tennis court,
0:12:30 > 0:12:34but will this be enough for our self-confessed tough customers?
0:12:34 > 0:12:37When I opened my eyes and saw that tennis court,
0:12:37 > 0:12:42I couldn't believe that you were able to find a property in the country with a tennis court.
0:12:42 > 0:12:47I wasn't expecting that at all. So in some ways it's a dream come true.
0:12:47 > 0:12:52I can see myself living here, and that's really surprising.
0:12:52 > 0:12:59I'm highly critical. However, I can see each day would be a pleasure to be here.
0:13:04 > 0:13:08As the sun begins to set over this mysterious and ancient landscape,
0:13:08 > 0:13:11the first day of our property tour of Wiltshire is at an end.
0:13:16 > 0:13:19Now, you'll recall that yesterday we got a very healthy
0:13:19 > 0:13:21nine out of ten from some very discerning buyers.
0:13:21 > 0:13:24Can we get a nice, round ten out of ten today, I wonder?
0:13:24 > 0:13:26Two more properties to play for
0:13:26 > 0:13:30including, of course, the mystery house. So fingers crossed.
0:13:31 > 0:13:34We're hopping over the border into Hampshire.
0:13:34 > 0:13:37Our first offering is situated in the village of North Gorley.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40At just 20 minutes to Siobhan's offices in Winchester
0:13:40 > 0:13:44and 15 miles from the coast, it's a superb location.
0:13:44 > 0:13:48The village itself is situated right on the western edge of the New Forest,
0:13:48 > 0:13:51so not only comes complete with pubs, tea shops
0:13:51 > 0:13:54and an abundance of character properties,
0:13:54 > 0:13:56but the region's most famous four-legged friends,
0:13:56 > 0:13:58the wild New Forest ponies.
0:14:00 > 0:14:03The property we're viewing sits on top of nearby Buddle Hill
0:14:03 > 0:14:06and enjoys spectacular views across the Avon Valley.
0:14:06 > 0:14:11There we are, a first offering of the day, what do you think of that?
0:14:11 > 0:14:13I think it looks amazing.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16- It's the White House!- It is - your own presidential world.
0:14:16 > 0:14:22- What about it? Is this the sort of thing you would have considered off of the details?- Nope.
0:14:22 > 0:14:24Ah! There's a theme emerging here.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27Let's see what you make of it inside. It's beautiful.
0:14:27 > 0:14:30It has quite a simple lay-out,
0:14:30 > 0:14:33but it also has some fantastic views. Come and look at this.
0:14:35 > 0:14:38Right, in you come. The hallway, as you can see.
0:14:38 > 0:14:42There's lots to this property to explore, not least outside,
0:14:42 > 0:14:47- but let's start with this reception room. What do you think?- It's a good basic shape to work with.
0:14:47 > 0:14:51We need to understand it in the context of the rest of the house,
0:14:51 > 0:14:53as a sitting room.
0:14:53 > 0:14:56Next door is a lovely little conservatory.
0:14:56 > 0:14:58- So far, so good?- It's OK.- Yes.
0:14:58 > 0:15:02"It's OK"! Such a difficult customer! Come through here.
0:15:02 > 0:15:05Back through the hallway, downstairs loo in there,
0:15:05 > 0:15:10- and then in here, a nice little study.- Very nice.
0:15:10 > 0:15:12Now, you can fight over that.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15There are other options as well, but the dining room is in here.
0:15:15 > 0:15:19- What do you think of this, Siobhan? - Oh, my goodness. It's massive.
0:15:19 > 0:15:22- It's a big space.- Loads of light in.
0:15:22 > 0:15:26This end is now configured as a dining end.
0:15:26 > 0:15:29This area here, containing the piano and the desk and so forth,
0:15:29 > 0:15:32that could easily be another little seating area,
0:15:32 > 0:15:38a little snug if you like, for more informal relaxing and eating.
0:15:38 > 0:15:40Because right next door is the kitchen.
0:15:40 > 0:15:43- Let's see what you think of this, chef.- Good, good.
0:15:45 > 0:15:46There we are.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51- OK. That's nice.- "That's nice"?
0:15:51 > 0:15:53Come on, it's gorgeous!
0:15:53 > 0:15:56That's impressive for me.
0:15:56 > 0:15:58What do you think, Siobhan? Come on.
0:15:58 > 0:16:00I think it's lovely and light in here.
0:16:00 > 0:16:04You've got space and the room and the light from both ends,
0:16:04 > 0:16:06and just look at that cooker.
0:16:06 > 0:16:08OK. Well, let's go upstairs and have a look at that.
0:16:08 > 0:16:10Plenty of room for you up there, too.
0:16:10 > 0:16:14- Then we're going to go out and explore the gardens. - That sounds exciting.- Yes.
0:16:16 > 0:16:18Siobhan obviously loves this house,
0:16:18 > 0:16:20but Simon's playing his cards
0:16:20 > 0:16:24somewhat closer to his chest. Maybe upstairs will swing it for him.
0:16:24 > 0:16:28There are two double guestrooms, a box room and the family bathroom.
0:16:30 > 0:16:33Now, last but not least, the master.
0:16:33 > 0:16:38So configured because it makes the best use of that view.
0:16:38 > 0:16:40- Waking up with that every morning. - That's stunning, yes.
0:16:40 > 0:16:44Now, a touch in here - there's also a little en suite shower room.
0:16:44 > 0:16:48- I think this is a house that's quite viable?- Yes.
0:16:48 > 0:16:50I think it's got a lot of potential.
0:16:50 > 0:16:55To me, it's just cosmetic things that would need to be updated.
0:16:55 > 0:16:57Simon?
0:16:57 > 0:17:01Yes, I think there are cosmetic things that need to be updated.
0:17:01 > 0:17:03- A few.- Why can't you envisage it?
0:17:03 > 0:17:08Because it's kind of the whole is needing to be done. That's hard.
0:17:08 > 0:17:11- But it's not a big job.- No, it's not a big job, I agree with you.
0:17:11 > 0:17:15If anything can get Simon to visualise himself living here,
0:17:15 > 0:17:16I think it's the garden.
0:17:16 > 0:17:21There's one acre of land which comes with some very special features.
0:17:22 > 0:17:25Come on in here.
0:17:25 > 0:17:26Simon, look!
0:17:26 > 0:17:28Oh, my goodness.
0:17:28 > 0:17:33This is the produce of your very own vineyard.
0:17:33 > 0:17:35Wow, now that's different!
0:17:35 > 0:17:39How about that? This is the winery that's attached to the house.
0:17:39 > 0:17:42Now, there aren't many vines up there, but believe it or not,
0:17:42 > 0:17:45they can produce, in a good year, upwards of 200 bottles.
0:17:45 > 0:17:50- Crikey.- So, is all this staying, then?- All of this is staying.
0:17:50 > 0:17:53- That's unbelievable.- Fab. Yes.
0:17:53 > 0:17:58I thought that would get some emotion out of Simon, but we're not done yet.
0:17:58 > 0:18:00There's one more feature I want to show them
0:18:00 > 0:18:03that could have them diving right in.
0:18:03 > 0:18:05- Oh, my goodness.- What do you think?
0:18:05 > 0:18:08I like it a lot. We didn't ask for it in the criteria.
0:18:08 > 0:18:10You certainly didn't. I love it.
0:18:10 > 0:18:15As pools go, I don't think you can beat that for the view, if nothing else.
0:18:15 > 0:18:18And you've got all the wine to enjoy while you're out here.
0:18:18 > 0:18:21What's it going to set you back, I wonder, in pounds sterling.
0:18:22 > 0:18:24- I think I'll go first.- Go on.
0:18:24 > 0:18:27I think it's got to be the top of our range.
0:18:27 > 0:18:31- I would just go straight for 800,000.- 800,000, yep.
0:18:31 > 0:18:35I'll say very similar, so I'll just go £5 below.
0:18:35 > 0:18:39OK. The good news is that it's not £800,000.
0:18:39 > 0:18:40Nor, indeed, a fiver less than that.
0:18:40 > 0:18:45This could be yours for £745,000.
0:18:45 > 0:18:49- OK.- Goodness.- Right, that's thinking time now then, isn't it?
0:18:49 > 0:18:52You have just thrown the cat amongst the pigeons.
0:18:52 > 0:18:54Well, you have plenty of cats, already.
0:18:54 > 0:18:56Yeah, I think that's a pretty good figure.
0:18:56 > 0:19:00- Go on, off you go, go and explore. I'll catch you later.- Thank you.
0:19:02 > 0:19:07So this is £55,000 under Simon and Siobhan's top budget
0:19:07 > 0:19:10and it's a huge house in an amazing Hampshire location
0:19:10 > 0:19:12on the edge of the New Forest.
0:19:12 > 0:19:14It has the farmhouse kitchen,
0:19:14 > 0:19:17office space and four bedrooms they've asked for,
0:19:17 > 0:19:19and with the swimming pool and winery,
0:19:19 > 0:19:22I think we may have finally discovered
0:19:22 > 0:19:24what it takes to impress Simon.
0:19:24 > 0:19:26Immediately as we were approaching the house,
0:19:26 > 0:19:29we just knew we were in a fabulous place of beauty.
0:19:29 > 0:19:33I could definitely see myself living here.
0:19:33 > 0:19:39Location-wise, it's absolutely perfect for work, for rail links,
0:19:39 > 0:19:43and yet you really feel like you're in the countryside
0:19:43 > 0:19:47and it's just so peaceful and tranquil all around.
0:19:51 > 0:19:54For the mystery house, we'll stay over the border in Hampshire,
0:19:54 > 0:19:58in the heart of the New Forest and amongst some of its more exotic
0:19:58 > 0:20:01four-legged residents, and try something completely different.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04We've shown Simon and Siobhan some very nice period properties,
0:20:04 > 0:20:08but I think we really need to push them a bit harder.
0:20:08 > 0:20:10So let's try something brand new.
0:20:10 > 0:20:15We're heading to the outskirts of the market town of Ringwood.
0:20:15 > 0:20:18It's a great location with good road and rail links
0:20:18 > 0:20:21to both Winchester and London, and it's just 11 miles to the coast.
0:20:21 > 0:20:24Situated in a predominantly rural area,
0:20:24 > 0:20:27Ringwood is the western gateway to the New Forest,
0:20:27 > 0:20:30at a crossing point of the river Avon.
0:20:30 > 0:20:32The mystery house is just a few miles out of town
0:20:32 > 0:20:37on a modern private development with around 150 homes.
0:20:37 > 0:20:40Now, Simon and Siobhan like period properties,
0:20:40 > 0:20:42so I wonder how they'll react to a new build.
0:20:45 > 0:20:48Come on in. There, that's the mystery house.
0:20:48 > 0:20:52Oh, my goodness. That is massive!
0:20:52 > 0:20:55It looks so different. I'm really, really intrigued to see inside.
0:20:55 > 0:20:58- You don't have to do anything. - Perfect.- Yeah? Right.
0:20:58 > 0:21:04So far, so good. I'm confident the interior won't disappoint.
0:21:06 > 0:21:08Oh, my goodness.
0:21:08 > 0:21:11- That's some entrance hall.- Yeah?
0:21:11 > 0:21:14- Yeah, that's grand.- Do you like that?
0:21:14 > 0:21:17Yeah, that doesn't feel new inside.
0:21:17 > 0:21:18Siobhan, your face.
0:21:18 > 0:21:20- What are you thinking? - It's beautiful.
0:21:20 > 0:21:23- The wooden floors, features are... - Yeah?
0:21:23 > 0:21:25Solid oak, throughout.
0:21:25 > 0:21:26Oh, my goodness.
0:21:26 > 0:21:28You've completely thrown me.
0:21:28 > 0:21:30This is done to a good finish, this is nice.
0:21:30 > 0:21:33It's very, very nice. There's an awful lot of it.
0:21:33 > 0:21:35To my left is a downstairs loo.
0:21:35 > 0:21:37Leading on from that is a double bedroom,
0:21:37 > 0:21:39downstairs, with an en suite.
0:21:39 > 0:21:42We've also got you two lovely reception rooms.
0:21:42 > 0:21:46One of them is in there, but I want to show you in here.
0:21:46 > 0:21:48Come and have a look at this, Simon.
0:21:48 > 0:21:51Because I think we're getting there with what you're after.
0:21:51 > 0:21:54- I'm not sure, Jules. It might need some work.- Oh, yeah!
0:21:54 > 0:21:56Such a liar.
0:21:56 > 0:22:00I'm surprised, because it does still feel cottagey.
0:22:00 > 0:22:03All the wood, and the floor.
0:22:03 > 0:22:08In terms of kitchens, to be fair, you have been a bit disappointed.
0:22:08 > 0:22:11- I think.- Yes.- I think you rather liked the last one.
0:22:11 > 0:22:13- Yes.- As did I.
0:22:13 > 0:22:17This is one for you, mate. If you don't like this, there's no helping you.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25OK. So what's not to like?
0:22:25 > 0:22:30I can't believe it! I just can't believe this space and the finish.
0:22:30 > 0:22:33That's a lot of space and a lot of work top.
0:22:33 > 0:22:36- That's exactly what I was picturing. - It's stunning, absolutely stunning.
0:22:36 > 0:22:41- You get the idea that you can literally just move in here.- Yes.
0:22:41 > 0:22:44But there's plenty more space to come,
0:22:44 > 0:22:48as flowing off the kitchen is a separate dining room.
0:22:48 > 0:22:51So downstairs has a very positive reaction from Simon.
0:22:51 > 0:22:54Let's see if upstairs will score top marks too.
0:22:56 > 0:22:59I think this would be a great office.
0:22:59 > 0:23:02This is massive.
0:23:02 > 0:23:05It's a good space. It's almost like you're spoiling it as an office.
0:23:05 > 0:23:10It is technically one of the bedrooms, but you don't need four,
0:23:10 > 0:23:12- really, so a few options, then? - Yes.- OK.
0:23:12 > 0:23:18Arranged around the galleried landing is a double guest bedroom and a guest bathroom.
0:23:19 > 0:23:21This is the master.
0:23:23 > 0:23:25Oh, my...
0:23:25 > 0:23:27Goodness?
0:23:27 > 0:23:30Yes, you've got fantastic views.
0:23:30 > 0:23:35It's just so open and airy and the wood finish is just stunning.
0:23:35 > 0:23:38- Simon?- It's nice. It's big, it's a good size.
0:23:38 > 0:23:43- Having that amount of light and the view onto the garden is nice.- Nice.
0:23:43 > 0:23:46- Is this as good as it gets with him? - Yes.- OK. All right.
0:23:46 > 0:23:48I'll take nice, then.
0:23:48 > 0:23:51This property comes with under half an acre,
0:23:51 > 0:23:54which isn't as big as either Siobhan or Simon wanted.
0:23:54 > 0:24:00So, will they be able to compromise on less outside space for a huge house?
0:24:02 > 0:24:05There we are... The mystery house from the garden.
0:24:05 > 0:24:08Completely different again.
0:24:08 > 0:24:11It's amazing, actually. It looks lovely.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14And I love the fact that the garden is such low maintenance.
0:24:14 > 0:24:18Let's have a little think about how nice the price may or may not be.
0:24:18 > 0:24:22Who's going to go first on our final property?
0:24:22 > 0:24:25- I think it's got to be my turn to be brave.- Yes.
0:24:25 > 0:24:29- So I'll say 740.- 740.
0:24:29 > 0:24:32Mm-hm. Quite brave, yes.
0:24:32 > 0:24:36I think it's closer to 800.
0:24:36 > 0:24:40You can afford it, but it is going to cost you £775,000.
0:24:40 > 0:24:42A good mystery house?
0:24:42 > 0:24:44- Very good, Jules. - Very impressed, Jules.
0:24:44 > 0:24:48Good. Go and explore it, because there's an awful lot more to have a look at.
0:24:48 > 0:24:50It really is terrific. Go on.
0:24:50 > 0:24:51- Thank you.- Enjoy.
0:24:52 > 0:24:58At £775,000, this is £25,000 under budget
0:24:58 > 0:25:01and doesn't need any work whatsoever.
0:25:01 > 0:25:02It comes complete with four bedrooms,
0:25:02 > 0:25:06two reception rooms plus that huge conservatory.
0:25:06 > 0:25:09Although it's nearly new, it does deliver on character.
0:25:09 > 0:25:13At under half an acre, the garden isn't quite as big as they want,
0:25:13 > 0:25:16but I think even Simon can visualise living here.
0:25:16 > 0:25:19Hampshire is definitely coming up trumps.
0:25:19 > 0:25:24I was completely confused by the mystery house.
0:25:24 > 0:25:29I was expecting the thatched roof and the stream in the garden
0:25:29 > 0:25:32and what I've seen is a new property that is done
0:25:32 > 0:25:37to the highest finish inside and out, and it's absolutely stunning.
0:25:37 > 0:25:40Just the number of knobs on that cooker is phenomenal, so...
0:25:40 > 0:25:45I'll be quite happy working in here and that really made me pleased.
0:25:48 > 0:25:53Well, at long last it's decision time for Simon and for Siobhan.
0:25:53 > 0:25:57For a couple who ruthlessly analyse every aspect of their life
0:25:57 > 0:25:59and indeed their future life plan,
0:25:59 > 0:26:02this could be quite an interesting discussion.
0:26:02 > 0:26:07Maybe we've given them too much choice - who knows?
0:26:11 > 0:26:13Well, Siobhan, Simon.
0:26:13 > 0:26:18It all started with that very interesting house with the tennis courts.
0:26:18 > 0:26:20That was an immediate wow-factor for me.
0:26:20 > 0:26:22I thought the house was fabulous.
0:26:22 > 0:26:24So many different features throughout the house,
0:26:24 > 0:26:27I could really see that would last the test of time.
0:26:27 > 0:26:30Then we took you to something very different,
0:26:30 > 0:26:32I think a very beautiful property.
0:26:32 > 0:26:34On the hill with gorgeous views.
0:26:34 > 0:26:37I think that property was amazing.
0:26:37 > 0:26:39It's got an awful lot of potential
0:26:39 > 0:26:41in order to put your own mark on it.
0:26:41 > 0:26:44It was a good choice, something different.
0:26:44 > 0:26:49All right, there was one more to come. The mystery house was completely out of the box.
0:26:49 > 0:26:51Totally, it was wonderful.
0:26:51 > 0:26:53It all fitted perfectly.
0:26:53 > 0:26:56What happens next, I wonder.
0:26:56 > 0:26:59I could guess on this one, but I'm not sure I want to.
0:26:59 > 0:27:01At the moment, it's two.
0:27:01 > 0:27:04OK, let me have a guess now, then.
0:27:04 > 0:27:06I think you would go for
0:27:06 > 0:27:10the property with the view, and the pool.
0:27:10 > 0:27:12You are completely correct, Jules.
0:27:12 > 0:27:14Ah. OK. Simon?
0:27:14 > 0:27:17The property with the tennis court has everything.
0:27:17 > 0:27:21It has the feel of home and I am very torn by that property.
0:27:21 > 0:27:24Now then, the tennis court property.
0:27:24 > 0:27:27You didn't pick that one. I thought you would have done.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29I think you've got a win-win here.
0:27:29 > 0:27:33And if you do buy the vineyard, send some bottles over. Cheers.
0:27:33 > 0:27:35Cheers. Good life.
0:27:41 > 0:27:45Now, there's no doubt in my mind that even just going out and looking
0:27:45 > 0:27:47for a property for the two of them to live in for the future
0:27:47 > 0:27:50has been a momentous occasion, certainly for Siobhan
0:27:50 > 0:27:55and not least for Simon, but I have to say we have given them
0:27:55 > 0:27:58some fantastic choices, which one they will eventually go for,
0:27:58 > 0:28:02I suspect only time will tell, but if there is a moral to this tale,
0:28:02 > 0:28:08it is this - never judge a property by the paper on which it is printed.
0:28:08 > 0:28:12If you do, you may just pass up your ideal dream home.
0:28:12 > 0:28:14I'll see you next time.
0:28:14 > 0:28:17Well, Siobhan obviously has very persuasive skills,
0:28:17 > 0:28:21because I'm delighted to report that they've had their offer accepted
0:28:21 > 0:28:23on the Hampshire house on the hill.
0:28:23 > 0:28:26Maybe the winery sealed the deal?
0:28:26 > 0:28:29If you'd like to escape to the country and would like our help,
0:28:29 > 0:28:35please apply online at:
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