Herefordshire Escape to the Country


Herefordshire

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The county I'm in today is the largest producer of these beauties,

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providing over 3,500 tons of this powerhouse superfruit

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for pies and juices around the world.

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But, were it not for World War II, they might not have become quite so popular.

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So join me in a moment for a "berry" exciting Escape To The Country.

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'On today's show, we'll be helping a couple

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'head into the country to find a property with big business potential.

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-'There'll be surprise...'

-Oh!

-No!

-Oh, my God!

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-'There'll be tears...'

-Try not to cry!

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-'..and there'll be laughter.'

-SHE LAUGHS

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Can you just get your chequebook out?

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And then there's the mystery house, which will throw it all into a spin.

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Welcome to Herefordshire. Today I'm at Whitton Farm,

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that produces just some of the mammoth crop of blackcurrants

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we love so much. But it wasn't always the case.

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Because of shipping blockades, shortage of oranges

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during the Second World War meant blackcurrant crops were encouraged

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by the government, as they provide a great vitamin-C alternative

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to oranges. So from 1942 onwards,

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the entire UK harvest was made into squash

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for schoolchildren to have free of charge.

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Which all goes to make a very cordial welcome to this county.

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Herefordshire is flanked by three English counties,

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and rubs shoulders with the Welsh border.

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The historic city and county town of Hereford was a border garrison town

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against the Welsh. Originally a Saxon settlement,

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Hereford dates back to the seventh century.

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Its cathedral, being one of the oldest in England, is a real draw,

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showcasing some of the finest examples of architecture

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from Norman times to the present day,

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including the newly restored shrine of St Thomas of Hereford.

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Meandering alongside the city is the UK's fifth-largest river.

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At 155 miles, the River Wye was the first to be designated

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as a Site of Special Scientific Interest in its entirety.

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'Away from the riverbank, the rich pastures contribute

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'to Nature's table. The world-famous Hereford cattle

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'are bred for their high-quality beef,

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'and the 350-year-old cider industry is, perhaps surprisingly,

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'more industrious than the one in the West Country,

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'producing 65 percent of the country's brew.'

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With its wide-open spaces and attractive black-and-white villages,

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it's no wonder urban escapees see Herefordshire

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as the perfect retreat.

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But it's not just quaint villages and timber houses

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attracting people to this area. A major redevelopment is planned

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in 2011 in Hereford, bringing in new business

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and fresh investment. So if you're interested in moving to this county,

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whatever your budget, there are plenty of properties to choose from.

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If you're searching for a handsome period property

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in a stunning wooded location, then, this five-bedroom home

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in Bush Bank is on the market for £1,350,000.

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It's crammed with features, is in tip-top decorative order,

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and there's not a neighbour in sight.

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If your budget isn't quite so generous,

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this four-bedroom cottage in Bishopswood, with its own pool,

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is looking for a new owner. On the market for £50 short of 700,000,

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this converted farm-worker's cottage has been extended over the years,

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and you'll struggle to beat a view like this.

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Or finally, if you fancy an old building with a contemporary twist,

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how about this three-bedroom country cottage near Bosbury?

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With a price tag of £395,000, it's the picture of modernity inside,

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and its neutral decor is just waiting for someone to make their mark.

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Herefordshire certainly has plenty to offer,

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so let's meet today's property shoppers

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who are hoping to while away the hours on the Wye.

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Lift engineer Danny and nursery-school owner Suzanne

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live in Sutton Coldfield, and enjoy regular visits

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from their children, Peter and Lucy.

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We moved to the house about eight years ago,

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and when we just initially looked at the house,

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-we just fell in love with it.

-The house has three bedrooms

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and a study. We have a good-size kitchen,

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a separate dining room, a nice character lounge with beams,

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and we had the conservatory put on a few years ago.

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It's been a great house, but now the children have flown the nest,

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they're ready for a change. To pay for their new life in the country,

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they've hit on the idea of owning and running holiday lets.

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We thought about doing the holiday lets, really,

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because we've got a lodge up in the Lake District,

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and we rent that out now, but that's through a company.

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We'd like to do it on-site so that we're there.

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-And more involved.

-More involved with it,

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and obviously have one or two more, as well as the lodge.

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So whether we do a barn up, maybe, or stables...

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-It gives us income. That's the main thing.

-Yeah.

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The holiday lodge is transportable,

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so the plan is to find a property in an idyllic setting

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with enough land for it and for an additional holiday let.

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They've had this idea in mind for a couple of years,

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so what sort of location would be their top choice?

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Hopefully on the edge of a village, with some village amenities,

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-shop... He likes to walk for his paper on a Sunday.

-Pub.

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-A pub, yes.

-A pub, yeah.

-Just so that we're not too remote.

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We want to meet people and be part of a village community.

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There are, however, provisos that come with the move.

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This kitchen is a good size, but in the next house,

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I would really like a big family farmhouse kitchen

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with a nice table in the middle so that we can all eat in the kitchen.

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The kitchen will be a big deciding factor in our choice of house.

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And for green-fingered Suzanne, the outdoor space is critical too.

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'Although we love this garden and we've put a lot of plants in,

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'we do feel we'd like more acreage now,

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'maybe one to two acres, so that we can put the lodge on.'

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And I can have a ride-on mower, and we can enjoy life in a new garden, new setting.

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Petrol-head Danny needs a garage for his classic car.

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With this in mind, what will be on our checklist?

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We want some land, double garage for myself.

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-Country kitchen for myself.

-Country kitchen for yourself.

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Master bedroom with an en suite, hopefully.

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-Yeah. Yeah. Er, three to four rooms.

-Three to four bedrooms.

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And a study.

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Before we head off to Herefordshire, we've called in a local estate agent

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to value the house they bought eight years ago for £225,000.

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'The property is very attractive, detached family home,

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'in a very convenient location, with schools, buses, trains.'

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Valuation, I'd expect it to achieve around £375,000.

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We're slightly disappointed with the valuation,

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but in today's market, I suppose that's what's to be expected.

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At least they're being realistic.

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Let's see how much money they're putting in the pot for this move.

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The budget for our new property will be £650,000.

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With a very healthy budget, Danny and Suzanne are looking for a home

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with business potential, namely one or two acres.

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I really think the key to this search

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is finding a good location, something near a tourist attraction that may bring bookings in.

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My only worry is that long list of requirements,

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which they both seem dead-set on.

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Suzanne and Danny are keen to pick up holiday-let trade

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from people visiting the Malvern Hills and the Wye Valley,

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so we'll focus our search around Ledbury, to the east of the county.

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We've got two days to show them a selection of tempting properties

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that have made it onto our shortlist, but as ever,

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I won't be revealing the price tag straight away.

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Finally there'll be the mystery house,

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which today will serve up a business proposition

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guaranteed to bring home the bacon.

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Danny and Suzanne, welcome to Herefordshire!

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-Hello.

-Looking forward to the next few days?

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-We are truly, yes.

-How well do you know the villages in this area?

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We've been down several times, and you've worked in this area.

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I like the area cos I've been working down here,

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so it's one of the reasons to move. It's a lovely area, picturesque.

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Now, your budget - around the 650 mark still?

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That's right, yes. Maybe a little bit more.

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The climate as it is at the moment, we might look a little higher.

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Not only are we looking for a fantastic house for you,

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-you also want to have a let business, don't you?

-That's correct.

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As you've got a lodge already, you'll know there might be planning permissions needed.

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-Yes, hoops to jump.

-Absolutely. It's good that you understand that.

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So when we're looking, we've also got to bear that in mind.

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-That's correct.

-I have some great houses for you,

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and of course we've got our mystery house,

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always that little bit of a surprise for you.

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That should be interesting. Thank you.

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-Shall we get started?

-Yes, please.

-Let's hit the road.

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So, with a budget of £650,000,

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Suzanne and Danny are searching for a house

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with three to four bedrooms including a master en suite.

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Suzanne has set her heart on a country kitchen,

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whilst Danny needs a garage for his classic car.

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To provide income, they're looking for a holiday let

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or a building they can convert. They also need one to two acres

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to accommodate their existing holiday lodge.

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They want all of this to be in or near a village,

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so they can meet new friends.

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Be honest with me - are you two very nervous about this move?

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Yes, because it's the unknown, isn't it, really.

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-It is.

-It's the unknown.

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-But we're up for a challenge.

-It excites you at the same time?

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There is an element of excitement.

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What do your son and daughter think about this big move?

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-I think they're a bit apprehensive.

-Just like us.

-Yes.

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We'll have lovely family weekends, hopefully.

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It'll be a completely different area to investigate.

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To get the amount of land that Suzanne and Danny are looking for,

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our research is showing that we need to look outside villages.

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So for our first property, we're heading over to Mathon,

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to the west of the Malvern Hills. It's an incredibly rural setting,

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but they're not going to feel isolated,

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as the village of Colwall is just two miles away,

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and has good amenities.

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Holiday-let visitors will be able to stock up the fridge,

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send their postcards and enjoy a relaxing drink.

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If they're feeling energetic, they can follow one of the many footpaths that lead up the hills.

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Over in Mathon, we're ready to hit them with house number one.

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So, first of all, what do you think of the location?

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-Looks ideal.

-Beautiful.

-Looks very nice.

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And this is your property. Built in 2007,

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it's a very attractive-looking house, I think.

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-It doesn't look brand new.

-No. It's got character

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-on the outside, definitely.

-Looking forward to the inside.

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-Great. Well, let's get started.

-Thank you.

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'Although a new build, at two years old,

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'this house fits sympathetically into its surroundings.

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'But is it what Suzanne and Danny are looking for?'

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So, come on in. Danny, I'll leave you to close the door.

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-I want to bring you straight in.

-This is my country kitchen.

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-Is this what you had in mind?

-Oh, it's got an island as well.

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-Island.

-Big range.

-And a range cooker.

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Yes. Table!

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-THEY LAUGH

-It's going well!

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-Lots of character.

-Yeah. It's lovely.

-Very nice.

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Do you like the idea of dining in the kitchen?

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Ideally we'd like a separate dining room, but that's...

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-There isn't, in this property, a separate dining room.

-Right.

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But there's plenty of room for a large enough table.

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Oh, yes.

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-You've got a small utility room...

-Oh, lovely.

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-..and a downstairs cloakroom, which you can look at later on.

-Right.

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-So, let's keep going.

-Right.

-Through here.

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-So, here's your drawing room.

-Oh, got my wood burner.

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Oh, right. We can keep warm with that, then.

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-Are you partial to those?

-Yes. Nice idea.

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-And an inglenook-style fireplace to go with it.

-Lovely.

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-Put the logs there.

-And you got a stained window.

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-That's a nice bit of character.

-It's a good touch, isn't it?

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-Brings natural light to the hall.

-It's a good size, isn't it?

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Beams are high, and... Very nice.

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So, the downstairs is working out quite well.

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-So far, yes.

-Good! Well, now we go upstairs,

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look at those bedrooms.

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'I think that went pretty well,

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'and up here there are the four bedrooms they've asked for,

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'kicking off with the master.'

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-And here it is.

-Oh, that's a good size.

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-Bigger than ours.

-Definitely bigger.

-Is it?

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-Oh, yeah, definitely.

-You got two built-in wardrobes here.

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-Views, look, in the morning.

-Yeah.

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Great views. And there's something else this room has to offer.

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Danny, we'll follow you. Take a little peek through that door.

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After you, Suzanne.

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-There's your en suite.

-Yeah.

-That's something we haven't got now.

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So, a large master and a decent en suite as well.

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-That's good.

-Good.

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So, this is working. Right. Well, let's keep going.

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Across the landing is the family bathroom,

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which is small, but with an en suite to the master,

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what more do you want? Next there are two small double bedrooms

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which their children could use when they come to stay,

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and that leaves one larger room for weekend guests.

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-And here's your fourth bedroom.

-Oh, that's a good size again.

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Oh, that's good. It's got a lot of shape to the roof as well.

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-And that's nice.

-It's got a slight eave effect.

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Yeah, that's it. You're right there, yeah.

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-So far, so good.

-Very good. It's got what we need.

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But it's crucial to get the outside right for you two,

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-with the business venture in mind.

-It is.

-Yes.

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So let's go outside, take a look at the land,

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-and look at those options. If you want to follow me downstairs...

-OK.

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'The house seems to have hit the spot,

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'and it's certainly big enough for the two of them.

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'The bonus ball is that it doesn't need any work.

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'Outside there's plenty of space - two and a half acres, to be precise.

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'My concern now is finding a home for Danny's classic car.'

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So, I want to show you this stable block,

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-because there's some options here to consider.

-Oh, right.

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You've got three stables, you've got an office at the end,

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and you've got a tack room, so quite a large building.

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But you've probably noticed, this property doesn't have a garage.

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-No.

-So you could potentially convert this

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-into a very large double garage.

-Oh, that would be good.

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That would be good for your classic cars.

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So that could work out quite well. However,

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when you're changing a structure, you must get planning permission.

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-Consents.

-Even for a garage, so you'd need to look into that.

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'Well, that keeps Danny happy.

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'As for the holiday-let side of the business,

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'I reckon there's plenty of room here for their existing lodge

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'with space left over for a couple more.

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'And the setting couldn't be better.'

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Just look around you, because this is all your land,

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literally, all the way round there, to the trees and to the back,

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so you've got just under two and a half acres.

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-Oh, that's good.

-Lovely.

-That's good, two and a half acres.

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You could potentially have some properties

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over there in the corner, at least the lodge,

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-with the right planning permission.

-If that's possible,

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-that would be interesting.

-Yes.

-Yeah.

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-So, enough land?

-I think so, definitely.

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Just right, yes. He wants his sit-on mower.

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There's certainly enough land for that.

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-So, the house hasn't been on the market for too long.

-Right.

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How much do you think the current asking price is?

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Um, I would say... Top end of our budget, I would say.

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Probably 655.

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OK. Danny?

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I'd... I'd say 670.

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This house, the current asking price

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is £599,950.

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Ooh! Little bit left over to do the necessary work.

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It would have to be done,

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and obviously the garage would have to be done,

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so that gives you a little bit in your budget.

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-Some extra there to play with, yeah. That's good, yeah!

-Good.

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-I think you need another wander around.

-Yes, please.

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Explore with that price in your mind.

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-We will.

-And I'll catch up with you in a while.

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-Thank you, Nicki.

-Off you go.

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What a great start! They seemed really impressed,

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loved the location, thought the house really would serve them well.

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But the potential is in this land, and they're not disappointed.

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At £50 shy of £600,000,

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this house could suit Suzanne and Danny's personal and business needs.

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It has the large country-style kitchen Suzanne hankers for,

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four bedrooms with a master en suite,

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a stable block that could be converted into a garage

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for Danny's cars, and there's two and a half acres of land

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for their holiday lodge, with space for possibly one or two more.

0:17:120:17:16

It's a lovely house. The kitchen is absolutely beautiful.

0:17:160:17:19

Upstairs, master bedroom is lovely. Again, a good size.

0:17:190:17:23

Got the en suite. The only issue would be

0:17:230:17:25

that it hasn't got a separate dining room.

0:17:250:17:28

I wonder if we could get consent to change these over.

0:17:280:17:31

-That might lend themselves better, to convert the stables.

-Uh-huh.

0:17:310:17:36

The property has got lots of space to it,

0:17:360:17:38

two and a half acres, which is ideal. We can do something with the stables.

0:17:380:17:42

We can convert those into the holiday lets. It's versatile.

0:17:420:17:46

-Have you both seen enough?

-I have, yes.

0:17:470:17:50

-Thank you very much.

-A very good start,

0:17:500:17:52

-but I think the weather's going to change, so let's jump in the car before we get wet.

-OK.

0:17:520:17:57

Suzanne and Danny can't wait to start their holiday-let business,

0:18:010:18:05

and are eager to check out the local attractions

0:18:050:18:08

that may appeal to their guests, so they're venturing out

0:18:080:18:11

to one of the county's premiere tourist draws,

0:18:110:18:13

Symonds Yat on the banks of the River Wye in the Forest of Dean.

0:18:130:18:16

-It's a beautiful area.

-It is. It's lovely.

0:18:160:18:19

Even in the rain, it's just as pretty.

0:18:190:18:21

At this point of its journey, the river winds its way round a limestone outcrop,

0:18:210:18:26

and is the border between Herefordshire in the west

0:18:260:18:28

and Gloucestershire in the east.

0:18:280:18:31

Symonds Yat village straddles the river,

0:18:310:18:33

and the only way to cross right here is by the traditional rope ferry.

0:18:330:18:37

-Hello.

-All right, there?

0:18:370:18:39

The 250-year-old service carries locals and tourists alike,

0:18:390:18:44

and operates throughout the year.

0:18:440:18:46

Most people visit this area to enjoy the breathtaking landscape

0:18:460:18:51

at Yat Rock, 500 feet above the gorge.

0:18:510:18:54

Local guide Wendy Amer is on hand to show them around.

0:18:540:18:58

Lovely views. This is looking right over east Herefordshire now.

0:18:580:19:01

You're looking at the loop of the river as it comes round Coppet Hill,

0:19:010:19:05

and loops back through Symonds Yat here.

0:19:050:19:08

And this is all a protected nature reserve,

0:19:080:19:11

so it's really unspoilt.

0:19:110:19:13

Just a little further up the gorge,

0:19:130:19:16

Goodrich Castle stands in a commanding position

0:19:160:19:19

overlooking this border territory. It dates back to the 12th century,

0:19:190:19:23

and was a Royalist stronghold during the Civil War.

0:19:230:19:26

This is one of the most complete medieval castles in the country.

0:19:260:19:31

It's still got most of its walls and towers.

0:19:310:19:34

It's a fascinating place to go round,

0:19:340:19:37

cos you can get up onto all the walkways

0:19:370:19:39

and have a really good look round it.

0:19:390:19:42

Suzanne and Danny will need time to soak up the rich history of this property,

0:19:420:19:46

but I'm sure it will be top of their list when recommending days out

0:19:460:19:49

for their holiday-let guests.

0:19:490:19:52

Next on our list is a house set in very rural Eastnor,

0:19:560:20:00

at the southern tip of the spectacular Malvern Hills

0:20:000:20:03

but just a mile and a half outside Ledbury.

0:20:030:20:06

Having this beautiful historic town on their doorstep

0:20:060:20:08

would be a real bonus for Suzanne and Danny,

0:20:080:20:11

not just for its amenities but for the tourist trade.

0:20:110:20:14

It's a town that seems like it hasn't changed for centuries,

0:20:140:20:18

and it is its remarkable beauty and heritage

0:20:180:20:21

that draws in the tourists year on year.

0:20:210:20:24

I think the setting of this next house couldn't be more beautiful,

0:20:240:20:28

and if I was looking for a place to stay,

0:20:280:20:31

this could be top of my list.

0:20:310:20:34

So, here we have your house.

0:20:340:20:36

Originally it was a pumping house, built around 1895.

0:20:360:20:40

-Oh, right. So it's got some history.

-It certainly has.

0:20:400:20:43

It looks to me more Arts and Crafts than Victorian.

0:20:430:20:47

It's got a lot of beautiful character.

0:20:470:20:49

It looks beautiful, yes.

0:20:490:20:51

The whole setting... I'm really quite excited!

0:20:510:20:54

It just looks absolutely magnificent.

0:20:540:20:56

-Ready to go?

-Yes, please.

-Yeah.

0:20:560:20:58

'What a start! I couldn't ask for more than that.

0:20:590:21:03

'Let's hope they find the inside equally impressive.'

0:21:030:21:06

-I'll leave you to close the door, Danny.

-Thank you very much.

0:21:070:21:10

-Straight into the reception room.

-Oh, isn't that lovely?

0:21:100:21:13

Oh, wood burner again.

0:21:130:21:15

Oh, that's lovely. It's got nice proportions as well.

0:21:150:21:18

It's got a cosy feel to it.

0:21:180:21:20

You've also got these beautiful mullioned windows.

0:21:200:21:23

Yeah, they're classic, aren't they? Yeah.

0:21:230:21:26

I know you like a bit of character, an older property.

0:21:260:21:29

-This has got the character.

-And it's light.

0:21:290:21:31

-It's not dark, no.

-This is lovely.

0:21:310:21:34

-Right. Let's continue.

-OK.

0:21:340:21:36

'Full marks for the lounge, then.

0:21:370:21:39

'Across the hall there's a separate dining room

0:21:390:21:42

'that was on their wish list,

0:21:420:21:44

'which leads on to a gorgeous country-style kitchen

0:21:440:21:47

'I am sure Suzanne will fall in love with.'

0:21:470:21:49

-Oh! Yes.

-Oh, you got this one, yeah.

0:21:490:21:52

-Oh, lovely. I'm all excited.

-You've ticked a couple of boxes.

0:21:520:21:56

-Oh, and the cooker!

-You've got your range there.

0:21:560:22:00

I love the roof-lights.

0:22:000:22:02

-Is this an extension?

-This is the extension.

0:22:020:22:05

It was done about seven years ago. The kitchen is only two years old.

0:22:050:22:09

So you've got practically a brand-new kitchen,

0:22:090:22:12

with granite work surfaces, and there's nothing to do.

0:22:120:22:15

It's all perfect. Gorgeous. You can just leave me here now.

0:22:150:22:20

Music to my ears, but I'm going to take you upstairs,

0:22:200:22:23

-because there's more.

-OK. Thank you.

0:22:230:22:26

'The kitchen extension really adds to the footprint

0:22:260:22:30

'of the ground floor, but the property is a bit smaller upstairs.

0:22:300:22:34

'I hope that doesn't dampen their spirits.'

0:22:340:22:37

So this is the first of the three bedrooms in this house.

0:22:370:22:42

-Three. Right.

-And it's a good-size room,

0:22:420:22:44

-bigger than what we've got at home.

-It is, yes.

0:22:440:22:46

I like the beams. They've left the woodwork in

0:22:460:22:49

just to give it some character.

0:22:490:22:51

And you've got the high ceiling.

0:22:510:22:53

I like the window again, the skylight.

0:22:530:22:56

-That's so light in there. Can I have a look?

-Go on.

0:22:560:22:59

Stick your heads in. Have a little look.

0:22:590:23:01

Oh, separate shower. Lovely.

0:23:010:23:03

Separate shower's all we want in here, isn't it?

0:23:030:23:06

'The character seems to be doing an excellent job

0:23:060:23:09

'in compensating for the smaller dimensions up here.

0:23:090:23:12

'Their children do get a room each for when they come to stay.

0:23:120:23:16

'There's a double and a single, and then there's the family bathroom.'

0:23:160:23:20

-Oh, it's a nice high ceiling.

-I like that window.

0:23:210:23:24

It's got character as well. It's not a box.

0:23:240:23:26

It's got the character for it.

0:23:260:23:28

Not only is it a beautiful home,

0:23:280:23:31

it has potential outside as well for your business,

0:23:310:23:34

-and more. Are you intrigued?

-I am, yes.

0:23:340:23:38

-Let's get going!

-Right. OK.

0:23:380:23:40

'Suzanne is definitely taken with this property,

0:23:410:23:45

'and outside, there's something for Danny too.'

0:23:450:23:47

So, time for the outside now.

0:23:470:23:50

-There's your double garage.

-A double garage,

0:23:520:23:55

but I want to bring your attention to upstairs.

0:23:550:23:58

Oh, right. We got something over the garage.

0:23:580:24:00

-What do you think that might be?

-A games room or an office?

0:24:000:24:04

Could be a good games room or a good office.

0:24:040:24:06

-Yes.

-Holiday let?

-It could also be a holiday let.

0:24:060:24:09

-Oh, right. OK.

-Come on.

-That's interesting.

0:24:090:24:12

'The space above the garage is a ready-made holiday let,

0:24:140:24:17

'and, with the bonus of a balcony overlooking the garden,

0:24:170:24:20

'it's sure to attract plenty of customers.'

0:24:200:24:23

Oh, wonderful!

0:24:230:24:26

Oh, gosh, that's great. That is really self-contained, isn't it?

0:24:260:24:31

You've got a separate entrance away from the rest of the house,

0:24:310:24:34

and it's all done. Because we're close to Eastnor Castle,

0:24:340:24:39

you get a lot of weddings and functions there,

0:24:390:24:41

so the current owners actually let this to a lot of people

0:24:410:24:45

-who are going to the castle.

-Oh, right.

0:24:450:24:47

So you could let this out.

0:24:470:24:50

You could also put your son or your daughter in here at Christmastime.

0:24:500:24:55

-That's a good idea.

-Yes. They can have their own space.

0:24:550:24:58

-They could have their own space.

-Yeah.

0:24:580:25:01

But there is still more to see with this property.

0:25:010:25:04

-This is just getting better.

-Danny, you lead the way.

0:25:040:25:07

-I'm excited already.

-'What a success!

0:25:070:25:10

'With one holiday let ready to go,

0:25:100:25:12

'all they need now is space for their existing holiday lodge,

0:25:120:25:15

'and there's plenty of it here.'

0:25:150:25:17

So, we have plenty of land.

0:25:170:25:21

-How much land is there?

-Two and a half acres.

0:25:210:25:23

-Wow. Two and a half acres?

-Two and a half acres.

0:25:230:25:26

But ahead of us is an Airstream caravan.

0:25:260:25:29

It's a static caravan, which is going,

0:25:290:25:33

but it gives you an idea of where perhaps

0:25:330:25:36

you could put your log cabin and other log cabins,

0:25:360:25:38

-or static caravans, around here.

-Yes.

0:25:380:25:41

Fantastic. It's just lovely.

0:25:410:25:44

So, it's time to think about how much this is on the market for.

0:25:440:25:47

This has got to be well over the budget.

0:25:470:25:50

-This is difficult.

-It's the land more than anything.

0:25:500:25:53

It's perfectly formed, the house, but...

0:25:530:25:55

-Um...

-You go first.

0:25:550:25:57

700?

0:25:570:25:59

700.

0:25:590:26:01

Which really was the very, very top, wasn't it?

0:26:010:26:04

I think that's what we're looking at.

0:26:040:26:06

-Danny?

-I think probably...

0:26:060:26:08

680, 690, something like that.

0:26:080:26:12

-Danny, you're closer.

-Oh, right.

0:26:120:26:15

-Oh, that's nice.

-But you're not that close.

0:26:150:26:18

-Oh.

-Current asking price...

0:26:180:26:20

-is £499,950.

-No!

0:26:200:26:27

-Whoa!

-No!

-Oh, my God!

0:26:270:26:29

-Can you just get your chequebook out?

-Yeah.

0:26:290:26:32

-No! Oh!

-SHE LAUGHS

0:26:320:26:34

What's going through your mind? Talk to me!

0:26:340:26:37

-Try not to cry!

-Possibilities.

0:26:370:26:39

-Oh, my God. No!

-Suzanne, is this the dream?

0:26:390:26:42

-Yeah.

-I know you're selling your business.

0:26:420:26:45

You need to get the next step just right for both of you.

0:26:450:26:49

-Is this what you had in mind?

-Yes.

0:26:490:26:51

And with something left in the budget.

0:26:510:26:54

Oh, you're welling up!

0:26:540:26:56

-Gosh!

-I'm going to stop you there.

0:26:560:26:58

I want you both to go and have another look. Explore everything.

0:26:580:27:02

Take as long as you like, and I'll meet you in the grounds.

0:27:020:27:05

-Right.

-We might be a long time.

-You can be.

0:27:050:27:07

-OK.

-See you in a minute.

0:27:070:27:09

Well, what can I say? A fantastic reaction -

0:27:090:27:13

hopefully everything they've ever dreamed of.

0:27:130:27:17

I love delivering good news,

0:27:170:27:20

and they certainly got a shock at the price tag,

0:27:200:27:23

£150,000 under their budget.

0:27:230:27:26

There's a country kitchen that captured Suzanne's heart,

0:27:260:27:30

and Danny gets a garage for his classic car.

0:27:300:27:33

There's a perfect holiday let ready to go,

0:27:330:27:36

all topped off with those two and a half acres,

0:27:360:27:39

ideal for the holiday lodge.

0:27:390:27:41

It's a beautiful house, and the surroundings are beautiful.

0:27:410:27:45

And with the holiday let as well,

0:27:450:27:47

and the potential to put a lodge or some other caravans on,

0:27:470:27:50

it's just magnificent.

0:27:500:27:51

-Oh!

-There you go.

-Ride-on mower!

0:27:540:27:57

-Yes!

-That's what you wanted.

-Good. Yeah.

0:27:570:28:00

The proportions of the house are fine,

0:28:000:28:02

but the outside area is beautiful. It's ready-made for what we need,

0:28:020:28:07

and the price just gives it an extra kick.

0:28:070:28:10

That's not included in the sale, I'm afraid.

0:28:100:28:13

-That's a shame, isn't it?

-That's nice.

0:28:130:28:15

-It's a very attractive caravan.

-It's beautiful, isn't it?

0:28:150:28:18

-The good old days.

-I can't drag you two away. Come on.

0:28:180:28:22

-No. It's just all too much.

-We're going to have to hit the road.

0:28:220:28:25

OK.

0:28:250:28:27

Think of Herefordshire, and it wouldn't be remiss

0:28:320:28:35

to think of cider. But there's one local farmer

0:28:350:28:37

who wants the county to be synonymous with another tipple -

0:28:370:28:40

vodka, made from a rather ordinary vegetable,

0:28:400:28:43

the humble potato.

0:28:430:28:46

'Suzanne and Danny's holiday-let guests may be keen

0:28:460:28:49

'to taste local products, so I'm going down to the farm

0:28:490:28:52

'to meet the chief distiller, Jamie Baxter.'

0:28:520:28:55

-Hi, Jamie.

-Hi, Nicki.

0:28:550:28:57

Tell me, what's so unusual about growing a potato in this county?

0:28:570:29:01

It's only started happening relatively recently.

0:29:010:29:03

You can see by this lovely heavy clay soil

0:29:030:29:06

that we're standing in, it's fantastic for growing potatoes,

0:29:060:29:09

but it's difficult to get the machinery on,

0:29:090:29:12

and it's only recently that we've got machines

0:29:120:29:14

which can cope with the heavy soils.

0:29:140:29:16

There's a long history of making potato vodka,

0:29:160:29:19

particularly in Poland, for about 250 years,

0:29:190:29:21

-but we're the only company in the UK.

-Any potato would make vodka?

0:29:210:29:25

-Yeah, any variety, but...

-Any size?

0:29:250:29:28

Yeah. This is a nice big potato,

0:29:280:29:30

so we use this for making crisps.

0:29:300:29:33

The smaller ones, there's not really a use for this.

0:29:330:29:36

There's nothing wrong with them. They're clean and wholesome.

0:29:360:29:39

So that's what I turn into vodka.

0:29:390:29:42

And the very small ones are next year's seed potatoes.

0:29:420:29:45

-So nothing goes to waste.

-Nothing.

-A meal and a drink,

0:29:450:29:48

and future food. Can I try the vodka?

0:29:480:29:51

Absolutely. Let's go to the distillery and find some.

0:29:510:29:54

Wow, this is an impressive set-up! And it's lovely and warm.

0:29:560:30:00

That's all the distilling activities that happen in here.

0:30:000:30:03

So, where do the potatoes come in?

0:30:030:30:05

The potatoes come in through the wall through there.

0:30:050:30:08

They're fermented into a potato wine, which is not particularly nice

0:30:080:30:12

to drink on its own, and all this beautiful equipment

0:30:120:30:15

is just there to extract the alcohol from the fermentation that happens next door.

0:30:150:30:19

Since they started making vodka just a year ago,

0:30:190:30:23

they've been producing 3,500 bottles a week.

0:30:230:30:25

Once the potatoes are out of the ground,

0:30:250:30:28

it's a fast turnaround process.

0:30:280:30:30

It's three weeks from field to bottle.

0:30:300:30:32

-And is that quite quick for a vodka?

-No, all vodkas are like that.

0:30:320:30:35

One of the beauties of it is that you can bottle it as soon as it's made.

0:30:350:30:39

It's not like whisky that has to be matured in a barrel for years.

0:30:390:30:42

You did promise me a drink. Do you think now's the time?

0:30:420:30:45

Let's go upstairs and meet Will. He's got a bottle with him.

0:30:450:30:48

-He's the boss.

-Absolutely.

0:30:480:30:50

-Hi, Will.

-Hi.

-So, I've got to have it neat.

0:30:520:30:54

I don't think I've ever drunk neat vodka.

0:30:540:30:57

So, normally this is going to be ice-cold.

0:30:570:31:00

Absolutely. That's my preference,

0:31:000:31:02

but if you want to drink it the way the experts do...

0:31:020:31:05

Some people rub it between their hands and sniff it,

0:31:050:31:08

and they say that's the best way to smell...

0:31:080:31:11

-I'll pretend I know what I'm doing.

-It's argued which is the best,

0:31:110:31:15

but I think the proof's in the tasting.

0:31:150:31:17

It's definitely potatoes. It's the one that makes the best,

0:31:170:31:20

-the creamiest, the smoothest vodka.

-Right. Are we ready?

0:31:200:31:23

-Wow!

-Smooth, isn't it?

0:31:280:31:30

I was about to say, that is really smooth.

0:31:300:31:32

-The aftertaste as well. It's...

-Pleasant, very pleasant.

0:31:320:31:36

Boys, I'm going to think of Herefordshire in a completely different way.

0:31:360:31:40

-Taxi for one.

-Cheers.

0:31:400:31:43

After a successful first day of property hunting,

0:31:480:31:51

and as the afternoon draws to a close,

0:31:510:31:54

it's time to ponder over the houses they've seen.

0:31:540:31:57

What did you think about the equestrian property?

0:31:580:32:01

-The lounge was lovely.

-Did keep a lot of the character.

0:32:010:32:04

And it was a new build, but it looked just right in that setting.

0:32:040:32:08

Outside we'd have had to do quite a lot.

0:32:080:32:10

-We'd have to convert the stables.

-It was a lovely property.

0:32:100:32:14

-Very nicely decorated.

-Very nice, yeah.

0:32:140:32:18

And the pumping station, that was exceptional, wasn't it?

0:32:180:32:21

It was just unbelievable, wasn't it? Soon as you drove down that drive,

0:32:210:32:25

it was just... The grounds are amazing,

0:32:250:32:27

-and having the let as well...

-Already up and running.

0:32:270:32:31

That was perfect. That was very good.

0:32:310:32:33

And the house was perfectly formed. Kitchen was a dream.

0:32:330:32:36

-You got your perfect kitchen, I think.

-I have.

0:32:360:32:39

I'd like to go back and see that property again.

0:32:390:32:41

-It was lovely.

-We'll just have to go a little bit deeper into it.

0:32:410:32:45

-Food for thought.

-Yeah, definitely.

0:32:450:32:47

'Suzanne and Danny from Sutton Coldfield want a property

0:32:530:32:56

'with holiday-let potential in Herefordshire,

0:32:560:32:59

'and have a budget of £650,000, but could stretch it

0:32:590:33:03

'for the right place. So far they've seen two houses,

0:33:030:33:06

'one of which fits like a glove,

0:33:060:33:08

'and, coming up, Danny opens the door to new opportunities.'

0:33:080:33:12

Oh, that's good!

0:33:120:33:15

For Danny and Suzanne, making the move to the country

0:33:170:33:20

isn't just about finding peace and quiet,

0:33:200:33:22

it's starting a business and creating a new life for themselves.

0:33:220:33:26

Now, yesterday went well. It went really well.

0:33:260:33:29

In fact, they both got very emotional.

0:33:290:33:31

I thought I saw tears.

0:33:310:33:34

So, today, new day, we've got plenty to show them,

0:33:340:33:37

and, of course, we've got the mystery property up our sleeve.

0:33:370:33:40

I think we're getting very close to finding them

0:33:400:33:43

their escape to the country.

0:33:430:33:45

For our first offering this morning, we're heading over to Holme Lacy

0:33:470:33:51

in the Wye Valley. This region, with its breathtaking scenery,

0:33:510:33:55

has long been a popular holiday spot for walkers,

0:33:550:33:58

so Suzanne and Danny should have no trouble attracting customers.

0:33:580:34:01

Hoarwithy, just six miles away, would be their local village.

0:34:010:34:05

It doesn't have too much by way of amenities,

0:34:050:34:08

but there is a post office and a couple of pubs

0:34:080:34:10

for catching up with local news.

0:34:100:34:12

This next property I'm taking them to

0:34:120:34:15

sits in a high position, with first-class views,

0:34:150:34:18

and has scope for development. The big question is,

0:34:180:34:20

are they up for a challenge?

0:34:200:34:23

-So, a new day, a new property.

-That looks nice.

0:34:230:34:26

-Traditional cottage?

-It is. It's a farmer's cottage,

0:34:260:34:30

built around the 1700s.

0:34:300:34:32

-Oh, right.

-Loads of character.

0:34:320:34:35

-That sounds good.

-And lots of potential,

0:34:350:34:37

because it's... It's a different property.

0:34:370:34:40

-There's lots to it.

-Right.

-Great.

-That sounds interesting.

0:34:400:34:43

Let's just step inside.

0:34:430:34:45

-Oh, look!

-You've got this accommodation at the side,

0:34:480:34:52

-which is attached to the house.

-Right.

0:34:520:34:54

You've got a beautiful courtyard, which needs a bit of loving care,

0:34:540:34:58

but it's stunning. There is so much potential out here,

0:34:580:35:01

-you can see just standing.

-Lovely.

-The layout looks great.

0:35:010:35:04

So, I bet you are intrigued now, aren't you?

0:35:040:35:07

-Yes, very.

-Let's start with the house.

0:35:070:35:10

-OK.

-And we'll go from there.

0:35:100:35:12

-Great.

-OK.

0:35:120:35:15

-Oh, look at this!

-Oh!

0:35:190:35:22

SHE LAUGHS

0:35:220:35:24

Oh, isn't that lovely? Look at that fireplace!

0:35:240:35:26

Oh, that's fantastic. That's got character.

0:35:260:35:29

I don't think you'll have any problem with space in this house.

0:35:290:35:32

I don't think so, looking at this. No way.

0:35:320:35:35

I hope you two have got lots of energy.

0:35:350:35:37

-Yep.

-Cos there's an awful lot to see.

0:35:370:35:39

'This house doesn't look massive from the outside,

0:35:390:35:43

'but once inside, it's a very different story.'

0:35:430:35:46

Oh, this is nice. I like different levels.

0:35:460:35:49

A bit quirky. Oh, look!

0:35:490:35:51

-Oh, another one! Another fire!

-Another fire.

0:35:510:35:54

-And you got a little seat for the window.

-Oh, window seat!

0:35:540:35:58

-Oh, it's sweet, isn't it?

-Yeah.

-Cosy.

0:35:580:36:00

-What room would this be?

-Living room. Living room, definitely.

0:36:000:36:05

-So, let's show you the kitchen next.

-Oh, that's my bit.

0:36:050:36:08

Back up the stairs.

0:36:080:36:10

'Suzanne has already found her dream kitchen

0:36:100:36:12

'in the last house, so will this one stand a chance?'

0:36:120:36:16

-Steps again.

-More steps.

-SUZANNE GASPS

0:36:160:36:18

More exposed stone, original beams...

0:36:180:36:22

-A kitchen with the biggest range...

-Look at that!

0:36:220:36:25

..I think I've ever seen. You could have five lots of cakes going

0:36:250:36:30

-in that oven.

-Yeah.

-Oh, it's fantastic.

0:36:300:36:32

Behind you you've got the utility room and downstairs cloakroom.

0:36:320:36:36

-Oh, right. That's good.

-But there's also another reception room

0:36:360:36:39

-through here.

-Oh, dining room!

0:36:390:36:42

-Breakfast room?

-THEY GASP

0:36:420:36:44

-That's massive!

-You could extend your kitchen

0:36:440:36:47

-right the way out.

-You could put all cupboards down that one side,

0:36:470:36:51

-so literally this is just the cooking bit then.

-Yeah.

0:36:510:36:54

So, we've seen downstairs. Time to go upstairs.

0:36:540:36:58

-So, you've got four bedrooms in total.

-Oh!

0:37:040:37:07

-And here is just one of them.

-Oh, there's your beams.

0:37:070:37:11

-Oh, that is character.

-It's a good size for a cottage.

0:37:110:37:15

'The spacious feeling continues.

0:37:160:37:19

'Just next door is one of the two family bathrooms.

0:37:190:37:23

'If their children don't fancy spending their weekend visits

0:37:230:37:26

'in the first bedroom, they can take their pick

0:37:260:37:29

'of the next two double rooms. At the end of the house

0:37:290:37:32

'is the second family bathroom, plus a small room

0:37:320:37:35

'which is currently used for storage. But let's find the master.'

0:37:350:37:38

-It's absolutely beautiful.

-It's got the character.

0:37:400:37:43

What you hope for in a cottage.

0:37:430:37:46

'I think the inside of the house is scoring well so far.

0:37:460:37:50

'Time to head outside and see about some business potential.

0:37:500:37:54

'Just down some steps is that self-contained annexe

0:37:550:37:58

'that could be used as a holiday let.'

0:37:580:38:00

'There are two bedrooms, a lounge, a kitchen and a bathroom.

0:38:020:38:06

'If they decided to let it out, they would have to gain permission

0:38:060:38:09

'from the council.'

0:38:090:38:11

Is it already used as holiday lets?

0:38:130:38:15

It's not. Although it's set up for it,

0:38:150:38:17

they did use to run their business from here,

0:38:170:38:20

so this was additional accommodation for people working for them,

0:38:200:38:23

so that's why you've got the kitchen and everything.

0:38:230:38:26

It just needs a lick of paint and bit of a tidy,

0:38:260:38:29

but everything's here.

0:38:290:38:30

'This property comes with super views,

0:38:300:38:33

'and it all sits in an acre of land -

0:38:330:38:36

'enough space to build Danny's garage

0:38:360:38:38

'and to accommodate their holiday lodge.'

0:38:380:38:41

The garden has been left to run a little wild,

0:38:410:38:44

but I'm sure it wouldn't take green-fingered Suzanne long

0:38:440:38:47

to turn it into a beautiful English country garden,

0:38:470:38:50

complete with an adorable small apple orchard.

0:38:500:38:54

So, money time. How much do you think the farmhouse,

0:38:540:38:57

the garden, the orchard, and the additional holiday-let accommodation

0:38:570:39:02

-is on the market for?

-This is very difficult.

0:39:020:39:05

I think about five and a half.

0:39:050:39:08

-I think a bit more.

-Do you?

-Mm.

0:39:080:39:11

I would say 600.

0:39:110:39:13

Let's see who's right. And it is...

0:39:130:39:16

bang on the nose, Suzanne.

0:39:160:39:18

-£600,000.

-Ah, you see!

0:39:180:39:21

HE SIGHS

0:39:210:39:23

You've really got a lot to think about now, haven't you?

0:39:230:39:26

-Yes, thank you.

-THEY LAUGH

0:39:260:39:27

Hopefully in a positive way. Have a wander.

0:39:270:39:30

I'll see you when you're ready.

0:39:300:39:32

Suzanne was spot-on with the price.

0:39:330:39:36

At £600,000, this property has a large kitchen

0:39:360:39:40

leading into a breakfast room, which they loved,

0:39:400:39:43

four bedrooms, a self-contained annexe

0:39:430:39:46

that, with the right permissions, could be used as a holiday let,

0:39:460:39:49

and an acre of land which would more than accommodate their lodge.

0:39:490:39:53

When we walked through that door, the welcoming feel

0:39:530:39:57

of that first reception room with the log burner,

0:39:570:40:00

that was lovely. Upstairs was really quirky

0:40:000:40:03

with all the different rooms and the different corridors.

0:40:030:40:06

It's a nice cottage, definitely.

0:40:060:40:09

The holiday let will probably have to be re-done out a little bit.

0:40:090:40:12

-This could be lovely.

-We'd have to give it a lick of paint.

0:40:120:40:16

-Potential's there, certainly.

-But it's interesting.

0:40:160:40:19

It's got some character to it, definitely.

0:40:190:40:22

-Guys, are you in there?

-We are.

0:40:220:40:24

-I think the owners' children might be taking that with them.

-Ahh!

0:40:240:40:28

-You both look exhausted.

-We are, actually -

0:40:280:40:30

-all that thinking and...

-A lot to ponder.

0:40:300:40:33

-Yes.

-And we haven't finished yet.

0:40:330:40:35

-Oh, no!

-Can you keep going?

-We'll try.

0:40:350:40:37

-THEY LAUGH

-OK.

0:40:370:40:39

Moving to the country and starting a new business

0:40:440:40:48

is both exciting and daunting for Suzanne and Danny.

0:40:480:40:51

So we've arranged for them to meet David and Sue,

0:40:510:40:54

the owners of an award-winning holiday-let business,

0:40:540:40:57

to find out what has made them such a success.

0:40:570:40:59

-It's a beautiful setting.

-Yes, it is.

0:40:590:41:02

A lovely setting. We liked it when we first saw it.

0:41:020:41:04

-Would you like to come through?

-We would.

-Yes, please.

-Lead on.

0:41:040:41:09

The business includes three properties,

0:41:110:41:13

and this semi-moated 15th-century manor house is the largest.

0:41:130:41:17

This is the Woodhouse.

0:41:170:41:19

You obviously kept a lot of the original features.

0:41:190:41:22

-Yes, we tried to.

-It's got so much character.

0:41:220:41:26

Do you tend to get people all year round here?

0:41:260:41:29

Yes, we do. We're very lucky, because although this isn't...

0:41:290:41:32

a very famous holiday destination, it is all year round,

0:41:320:41:37

because people come to walk. It's beautiful countryside.

0:41:370:41:40

There are sights to visit, there are museums to go to.

0:41:400:41:44

It is wonderful any time of the year that you can come.

0:41:440:41:47

Success depends on setting yourself apart from competitors,

0:41:470:41:51

and that lies in the details.

0:41:510:41:53

-Oh, isn't this lovely?

-It's beautiful. Very nice.

0:41:530:41:57

This is a replica medieval hanging bed.

0:41:570:42:00

It doesn't mean that the bed is hanging,

0:42:000:42:02

just that it's got hangings, but they were always suspended

0:42:020:42:06

-from the ceiling.

-Period. Yeah.

0:42:060:42:08

There's plenty of inspiration here for Suzanne and Danny,

0:42:080:42:11

but they were also keen to take a peep

0:42:110:42:14

at the more modern cottage next door,

0:42:140:42:16

which may be closer to their own plans.

0:42:160:42:18

It's got a completely different character to the Woodhouse.

0:42:180:42:21

-Nice and cosy, though.

-Yes, but it's as well equipped.

0:42:210:42:24

Are there any tips that you could give us?

0:42:240:42:27

The first thing that we would recommend

0:42:270:42:29

is to find a good location. It is a beautiful county,

0:42:290:42:33

so you should manage that. The second thing is, go for quality -

0:42:330:42:37

five stars if you possibly can.

0:42:370:42:39

Get a good website designer to build you a really good website,

0:42:390:42:43

and make sure you have a credit-card machine

0:42:430:42:45

which can take credit or debit cards.

0:42:450:42:47

Now they've had a brief introduction into the holiday-let business,

0:42:470:42:51

they're ready to go. That just leaves us the challenge

0:42:510:42:55

of finding them a property that excites and inspires them.

0:42:550:42:58

-Good luck with your enterprise.

-Thank you.

0:42:580:43:01

Bye, now. Bye.

0:43:010:43:03

It's time now for the mystery property, and as you can see,

0:43:040:43:07

they're all desperate for accommodation here in Herefordshire.

0:43:070:43:11

Now, the mystery house - well, it has so many bedrooms,

0:43:110:43:14

I think I've found somewhere for all these girls to sleep!

0:43:140:43:18

So, our final journey is to Hanley Swan,

0:43:190:43:22

just over the border into Worcestershire,

0:43:220:43:25

and on the eastern side of the Malvern Hills.

0:43:250:43:27

It's the first time we've been able to show them a house in a village,

0:43:270:43:31

which is what they hanker for, and I think this is just the sort of place they had in mind.

0:43:310:43:37

Here they'll be able to immerse themselves in village life,

0:43:370:43:40

where the pub, post office and church are the crossroads of the community.

0:43:400:43:44

It's been tricky finding a property in a village

0:43:440:43:47

with the amount of land they need, so for our mystery house,

0:43:470:43:50

we're putting the holiday-let business aside

0:43:500:43:53

in order to get them the favoured village location.

0:43:530:43:56

So, here is the mystery house.

0:43:560:43:58

-All of it?

-All of it.

0:43:580:44:01

-That looks impressive.

-It's very impressive.

0:44:010:44:03

It also has eight bedrooms.

0:44:030:44:06

-Eight?

-Eight.

-Eight bedrooms.

0:44:060:44:08

The reason this house has been picked for you

0:44:080:44:11

is to look at something different, and that is a B&B

0:44:110:44:14

-as earning potential.

-Yeah.

-OK.

0:44:140:44:16

-Ready to start the tour?

-Yes.

-Yes, please.

0:44:160:44:19

'As ever with the mystery house, we're heading in a new direction.

0:44:200:44:24

'But will the desired village location be enough to persuade them

0:44:240:44:28

'to go down the bed-and-breakfast route?'

0:44:280:44:30

So, come on in. How's this for a hallway?

0:44:300:44:33

-Beautiful.

-That's beautiful.

-Lovely size.

0:44:330:44:36

That side is for the B&B,

0:44:360:44:39

and the whole of this side is a private residence.

0:44:390:44:42

-Oh, that's nice, then.

-So, for anyone staying here,

0:44:420:44:45

this is the only part of the private house they go into.

0:44:450:44:48

Then they go through there, not to be seen again until they check out.

0:44:480:44:52

-Oh, that sounds right.

-And pay.

-And pay, obviously.

0:44:520:44:55

Very important.

0:44:550:44:57

-So, let's do the private part of the house first.

-OK.

0:44:570:45:01

So, here's the main sort of drawing room.

0:45:010:45:04

-Oh, that's nice. Excellent size.

-Good size, yeah.

0:45:040:45:07

-It's a lovely marble fireplace, isn't it?

-Lovely.

0:45:070:45:11

Let's see where Danny's going to be working,

0:45:110:45:13

-because I know he's going to be busy with this B&B.

-Oh!

0:45:130:45:16

'It might not be what Danny had in mind with this move,

0:45:160:45:20

'but, as with any B&B business,

0:45:200:45:22

'there's the all-important utility room

0:45:220:45:25

'with the downstairs cloakroom next door.

0:45:250:45:27

'And when he's finished feeding the washing machine,

0:45:270:45:30

'he could help Suzanne feed the guests from the kitchen,

0:45:300:45:33

'which I think is rather lovely.'

0:45:330:45:36

So, imagine, between 7:00 and 9:00 AM,

0:45:360:45:40

-pans going, food all out...

-Could we not do late breakfasts?

0:45:400:45:44

You could do, yeah. Weekends.

0:45:440:45:46

I think it would be very late breakfasts.

0:45:460:45:48

-Lunch!

-I'm not too good in the morning.

0:45:480:45:51

I'm really not.

0:45:510:45:53

-But you'd have to be organised if you were providing breakfast.

-Yeah.

0:45:530:45:57

You've got a serving hatch as well.

0:45:570:45:59

Does that go through to a dining room, then?

0:45:590:46:02

Have to wait and see. Have to wait and see!

0:46:020:46:05

We've still got a lot more to do with this house.

0:46:050:46:08

'I'm finding it difficult to gauge what they're feeling

0:46:080:46:12

'about this proposition, so at this point it could go either way.

0:46:120:46:15

'We're heading upstairs to look at the bedrooms

0:46:150:46:18

'in the private part of the house.'

0:46:180:46:20

So, this side of the property has five bedrooms.

0:46:200:46:23

Very grand. Five for us?

0:46:230:46:26

Five for you.

0:46:260:46:28

-Five?!

-Five.

-SHE LAUGHS

0:46:280:46:31

-This would obviously be your room.

-It would, yes.

0:46:310:46:34

-And it's got an en suite.

-Has it got a shower?

0:46:340:46:36

-Come and have a look.

-Let's have a look.

0:46:360:46:38

-Oh, very nice.

-It's a very nice en suite.

0:46:380:46:41

-Oh, double basin! That's nice.

-Yeah, that's nice.

0:46:410:46:44

-Plenty of wardrobe space as well.

-So, big enough?

0:46:440:46:47

-Yes. For my clothes, yes.

-Yes.

0:46:470:46:50

-Let's keep going!

-OK.

0:46:500:46:52

'The other three bedrooms on this floor

0:46:540:46:56

'are all generous doubles, so there's plenty of room

0:46:560:46:59

'for the kids to spread out when they visit mum and dad

0:46:590:47:02

'for the weekend. And there's a family bathroom on this level too.

0:47:020:47:05

'That's not all. More surprises await upstairs.

0:47:050:47:09

'The attic has a lounge, a study, and the final bedroom

0:47:090:47:13

'in this private side of the house.'

0:47:130:47:16

-Oh, that's good.

-Look at all this!

-And round there as well. Brilliant!

0:47:160:47:19

You would never think this was here.

0:47:190:47:22

No, this is really nice and tucked away.

0:47:220:47:24

So, you see, your side of the property is pretty substantial,

0:47:240:47:28

-don't you think?

-It's massive.

-Excellent.

0:47:280:47:31

-Absolutely massive.

-So let's see now where the B&Bs would be.

0:47:310:47:34

-Right. After you.

-Thank you.

0:47:340:47:36

'So, their sprawling quarters with five bedrooms

0:47:380:47:42

'gets top marks. Will the business side of this property

0:47:420:47:45

'score so highly? There's only one way to find out.'

0:47:450:47:49

Through here is where your B&B guests would eat...

0:47:490:47:54

-That's nice and bright.

-..so you do have a dining room.

0:47:540:47:57

-It's a good-size room.

-And, Danny, your serving hatch,

0:47:570:48:01

which you might be very familiar with if you take this on,

0:48:010:48:04

is just there. Do you want to go and take a look?

0:48:040:48:06

Oh, right. That's where it all comes through.

0:48:060:48:09

THEY LAUGH Oh, that's good.

0:48:090:48:11

-Pass it all through.

-And you don't even have to be seen by your guests

0:48:110:48:15

-first thing in the morning.

-I think that might be best.

0:48:150:48:18

-Let's put it back.

-OK. I think so.

0:48:180:48:21

This room is the communal living room, sitting room, for your guests.

0:48:250:48:29

-That's nice. They're not stuck in their rooms.

-Exactly.

0:48:290:48:32

They've got somewhere they can come and read, watch television.

0:48:320:48:35

Let's show you one of the bedrooms down here, which is en suite.

0:48:350:48:40

Gives you an idea of the standard of the rooms,

0:48:400:48:43

-which I think is very high.

-You don't normally get this size.

0:48:430:48:47

I've stayed in hotels that aren't as nice as this.

0:48:470:48:50

-Not as nice as this.

-Very generous bathroom next door.

0:48:500:48:54

And is this a five-star accommodation?

0:48:540:48:56

-This is five star.

-You're keeping this going, aren't you?

0:48:560:48:59

-THEY LAUGH

-Is it working overtime?

-Yes.

0:48:590:49:02

But it is... It's all done.

0:49:020:49:04

'In addition, there are two more guest bedrooms upstairs

0:49:040:49:08

'that are finished to the same high standard,

0:49:080:49:10

'and, we're told, the business is healthy,

0:49:100:49:13

'with plenty of bookings for the coming months.

0:49:130:49:16

'All I have to show them now is the outside space

0:49:160:49:18

'at the back of the house.'

0:49:180:49:20

-Oh. No garden.

-No garden, I'm afraid.

0:49:210:49:25

-Ooh, yeah.

-Oh.

0:49:250:49:26

-That's my little area.

-That is.

-When I finish my bacon and eggs,

0:49:260:49:30

where's my garden?

0:49:300:49:32

I don't know whether hanging baskets and pots would satisfy me,

0:49:320:49:36

-cos that is my interest, isn't it?

-It is, yeah.

0:49:360:49:39

I love to be in the garden, and it's my release, really. It's lovely.

0:49:390:49:43

'Suzanne might be disappointed with the courtyard,

0:49:430:49:47

'but there is a lawned garden at the front of the house.'

0:49:470:49:51

So, before I ask you how much you think this property is worth,

0:49:510:49:54

-would you like to know what revenue the business takes?

-That would help.

0:49:540:49:58

She only has B&B about 50, 60 percent of the year.

0:49:580:50:01

Right. That's what we would do.

0:50:010:50:03

Her turnover is between £30,000 and £40,000 a year.

0:50:030:50:07

-Wow, that's pretty good, isn't it?

-That's good.

0:50:070:50:10

Because obviously, if we did a B&B,

0:50:100:50:12

then, Danny wouldn't be able to do his present job,

0:50:120:50:15

because he's going to have to serve the bacon and eggs, isn't he,

0:50:150:50:18

-through his hatch.

-All hands to the pump, yes.

0:50:180:50:21

-Through your hatch.

-Through the hatch.

0:50:210:50:23

THEY LAUGH That's a bad look.

0:50:230:50:26

So, how much do you think this house is currently on the market for?

0:50:260:50:31

590.

0:50:320:50:34

OK. Danny?

0:50:340:50:36

I think about 650, actually.

0:50:360:50:38

With that income and stuff, I think it's worth about 650, actually.

0:50:380:50:42

OK. Current asking price

0:50:420:50:45

is £625,000.

0:50:450:50:48

-Oh. Between the two, then.

-I thought so, yeah.

0:50:480:50:51

-I thought that, yeah.

-I know you're disappointed,

0:50:510:50:54

but at least it's got you thinking about the merits of a B&B.

0:50:540:50:57

So go and have a wander, and I'll meet you in a little while.

0:50:570:51:00

-Lovely. Thank you.

-OK. Thank you.

0:51:000:51:03

At £625,000, this wonderful house is within budget,

0:51:030:51:08

and offers a thriving ongoing business

0:51:080:51:10

Suzanne and Danny could pick up and run with straight away.

0:51:100:51:14

The property is in a village, which was high on their wish list,

0:51:140:51:17

has a large kitchen / diner which went down a treat,

0:51:170:51:21

offers eight bedrooms,

0:51:210:51:23

including three dedicated to the B&B business.

0:51:230:51:26

But will the lack of land and the small garden be the deal-breaker?

0:51:260:51:32

The size, the Georgian look, was lovely.

0:51:320:51:35

All the rooms were spot-on, five star.

0:51:350:51:38

Kitchen, fabulous. The bedrooms were good.

0:51:380:51:41

And then unfortunately we went outside,

0:51:410:51:43

which was, to me, a big disappointment.

0:51:430:51:46

I mean, that part is absolutely beautiful.

0:51:460:51:49

The rooms are perfect.

0:51:490:51:51

But it's just this bit, and that's not a compromise,

0:51:510:51:54

-is it?

-No. Not for you, anyway.

-No.

0:51:540:51:57

The mystery property is lovely.

0:51:570:51:59

The rooms are perfect. We've never been interested in B&B,

0:51:590:52:02

but seeing what we've got here has made it more interesting,

0:52:020:52:06

and perhaps something to think about in the future.

0:52:060:52:09

-Have you both seen enough?

-Yes. It's beautiful.

0:52:090:52:12

Let's go somewhere quiet where you can have a think

0:52:120:52:15

and consider all the properties you've seen.

0:52:150:52:18

-Right.

-OK.

0:52:180:52:20

Suzanne and Danny have seen a real mix of properties,

0:52:240:52:28

offering some interesting business propositions.

0:52:280:52:31

All they need to do now is work out their priorities.

0:52:310:52:34

It's time for Danny and Suzanne to make some choices.

0:52:370:52:41

It's not often I say this,

0:52:410:52:43

but I think I know which house they'll choose.

0:52:430:52:45

Let's see if I'm right.

0:52:450:52:48

-Are your minds whirring?

-Very much so.

0:52:520:52:55

The cogs are going round, and we just...

0:52:550:52:58

We've seen some beautiful properties.

0:52:580:53:01

-Very good.

-Well, we started off with that equestrian new build.

0:53:010:53:04

What did you think about that property?

0:53:040:53:07

It was a lovely build, lovely character in there.

0:53:070:53:10

-The kitchen was beautiful.

-The lounge was a good size.

0:53:100:53:13

But the land, although there was a lot of land there...

0:53:130:53:16

-It was slightly inclined.

-And to make it into a pretty garden

0:53:160:53:19

-would have been a lot of work.

-And then we saw the old pump house.

0:53:190:53:24

Yeah. That was special. That was fantastic.

0:53:240:53:27

-The grounds were perfect.

-And there was room for the lodge,

0:53:270:53:31

or maybe even two. We could do so much with the land.

0:53:310:53:34

It just lends itself to what we want, really.

0:53:340:53:36

In one way, if we went for that house,

0:53:360:53:39

we would be compromising in some way for the house,

0:53:390:53:41

but the grounds were just perfect.

0:53:410:53:44

We saw an 18th-century farmhouse with outbuildings,

0:53:440:53:48

substantial land. What were your first impressions

0:53:480:53:51

when you saw that?

0:53:510:53:53

That was the cottage that we thought that we would want.

0:53:530:53:56

It was such a solid cottage. It was just unbelievable,

0:53:560:53:59

with two-foot thick walls,

0:53:590:54:02

-and you was up and down...

-That's what I liked.

0:54:020:54:05

A bit of quirkiness, with the steps down,

0:54:050:54:08

and all the corridors upstairs. You just felt...

0:54:080:54:10

Although it was only four-bedroomed, it just seemed huge.

0:54:100:54:13

-It was a TARDIS, yeah.

-And that was just the farmhouse.

0:54:130:54:16

-That was the farmhouse.

-What about all that land?

0:54:160:54:19

-You've got the holiday let.

-That was already done.

0:54:190:54:22

-It needed quite a bit of work...

-Some work to it.

0:54:220:54:25

Lastly we saw the mystery house.

0:54:250:54:29

That was immaculate. High ceilings...

0:54:290:54:31

-Huge rooms.

-Lovely detail.

0:54:310:54:34

-Lovely detail.

-The kitchen was lovely.

0:54:340:54:37

Again, a bit like a TARDIS upstairs, but that's what we like,

0:54:370:54:40

because it was all secret little rooms, and it was lovely.

0:54:400:54:43

You've got the potential for lettings there,

0:54:430:54:46

-and that would be interesting.

-Then you took us outside,

0:54:460:54:49

and then it all went downhill. I really, really like my garden.

0:54:490:54:53

That's my release, and that's my hobby.

0:54:530:54:57

-That would have been a big compromise for you.

-Too much so.

0:54:570:55:00

Um, so unfortunately I think that was definitely a no-no,

0:55:000:55:04

but because you've taken us to a B&B,

0:55:040:55:07

-that has given us another option.

-So, it's crunch time,

0:55:070:55:10

although I think I might have a good inkling

0:55:100:55:13

as to which property you loved the most.

0:55:130:55:15

Would it be fair to say the old pump house?

0:55:150:55:18

-I think so.

-Yes.

-You got it on the nail there.

0:55:180:55:21

-We'd like to go back and see that.

-We'll have to look at that again.

0:55:210:55:25

It is a beautiful house. It was well under your budget.

0:55:250:55:28

-It was.

-That gives us the lot.

-It gives you pennies to spend,

0:55:280:55:32

perhaps to make those adjustments, make it perfect for you

0:55:320:55:35

-and your business.

-You're right.

0:55:350:55:38

-Definitely.

-And it's a beautiful area.

0:55:380:55:40

Thanks to you we've seen a lot more, and it's been a fantastic few days,

0:55:400:55:44

I'm so pleased. I really, really am. I wish you the best of luck,

0:55:440:55:48

and I hope you can make that property work for you,

0:55:480:55:51

-because I think you could be very, very happy there.

-I think so.

0:55:510:55:55

-And you must come and stay.

-I would love to.

0:55:550:55:57

-Thank you.

-Thank you.

-We won't charge.

0:55:570:56:00

THEY LAUGH

0:56:000:56:02

Finding the right property and a business can be quite tricky,

0:56:030:56:07

but for Danny and Suzanne, I think we might have cracked it.

0:56:070:56:11

As soon as they saw the old pumping station

0:56:110:56:13

with all that land, they both fell in love with it,

0:56:130:56:16

and I think it's only going to be a matter of time

0:56:160:56:19

before they put an offer in. If so, we wish them all the very best.

0:56:190:56:23

Join us again next time for Escape To The Country.

0:56:230:56:26

I'm delighted to tell you that, after a second viewing,

0:56:300:56:33

Suzanne and Danny have had their offer accepted

0:56:330:56:36

on the house near Eastnor, and are looking forward to moving in as soon as possible.

0:56:360:56:40

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0:56:400:56:43

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0:56:430:56:46

and would like our help, please apply online at...

0:56:460:56:48

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