0:00:00 > 0:00:05Today, I'm in my home county. Which claims to be the oldest in England,
0:00:05 > 0:00:07its name dating back to 41 BC.
0:00:07 > 0:00:11It's also home to one of the first and finest light railways.
0:00:11 > 0:00:14So, all aboard as we Escape To The Country.
0:00:27 > 0:00:31Today, we'll be meeting a couple who can't wait to leave suburbia behind them.
0:00:31 > 0:00:35And trade it in for very cosy country living.
0:00:35 > 0:00:37Didn't expect this.
0:00:37 > 0:00:41I'll show them wonderful country homes that will take them by surprise.
0:00:41 > 0:00:45- I'm really impressed by this, aren't you?- I am, yeah.
0:00:45 > 0:00:49And there's the blinding mystery house. Which will call for some hand-holding.
0:00:49 > 0:00:52I want you to turn around and reveal.
0:00:52 > 0:00:54- A-ha!- Ah!
0:00:56 > 0:00:59Today I'm in Kent, the Garden of England.
0:00:59 > 0:01:01Now, this county is full of history.
0:01:01 > 0:01:07Being home to over 17,000 listed buildings and these beautifully preserved steam engines.
0:01:07 > 0:01:11So, get ready to discover this very special corner of Britain.
0:01:14 > 0:01:17Kent lies in the south-east corner of England
0:01:17 > 0:01:21and has spectacular coastlines. The sea shaped this county.
0:01:21 > 0:01:27Renowned for it's rich naval history and the iconic White Cliffs of Dover.
0:01:27 > 0:01:30A symbol of Britain.
0:01:31 > 0:01:36Venturing inland is Canterbury, home of the Anglican Church.
0:01:36 > 0:01:41And the Hythe Weald which Henry VIII referred to as the Garden of England.
0:01:41 > 0:01:44For it has some of the most fertile land in the UK.
0:01:44 > 0:01:47But Kent is perhaps most famous for its oast houses.
0:01:47 > 0:01:53Many of these Victorian hop-drying buildings have been converted into beautiful luxury homes.
0:01:55 > 0:01:58Well, hopefully Kent's grabbed your interest.
0:01:58 > 0:02:00Let's hope it'll tempt our buyers.
0:02:00 > 0:02:03Today's property hunters are Phil and Philomena from Sidcup in Kent.
0:02:03 > 0:02:07Phil's an account director for a health company.
0:02:07 > 0:02:14And his wife Philomena, who Phil refers to as Phil Number Two, works as a PA in London.
0:02:14 > 0:02:19Phil and Phil have been living in their five-bedroom detached house for eight years.
0:02:19 > 0:02:22With their two daughters grown up and moved on.
0:02:22 > 0:02:27And with retirement on the horizon, Phil and Philomena have been dreaming of a fresh start.
0:02:27 > 0:02:31Our current home isn't ideal for us any more. I think it's outgrown us.
0:02:31 > 0:02:35It's just the two of us now. We don't need this amount of space.
0:02:35 > 0:02:41We can't enjoy what we want. Which is the peace and quiet of the countryside.
0:02:41 > 0:02:45This has left them with a clear idea of what they want from their new home.
0:02:45 > 0:02:48We'd like a three-bedroom detached house with character.
0:02:48 > 0:02:51- It has to be in a quiet road.- Yeah.
0:02:51 > 0:02:55We'd like an en suite if possible and I'd like a kitchen-diner.
0:02:55 > 0:02:59And also I'd quite like to have a range cooker in the kitchen.
0:02:59 > 0:03:01Philomena loves cooking.
0:03:01 > 0:03:06So having somewhere big enough to entertain is important, and she's attached to her dining table.
0:03:06 > 0:03:10I really love this table. It took me ages to find it.
0:03:10 > 0:03:14So, when we move there's definitely going to have to be a space for it.
0:03:14 > 0:03:17It must have a double garage or space to build one.
0:03:17 > 0:03:19And a fair size garden.
0:03:19 > 0:03:21Phil and Philomena want to get back to nature.
0:03:21 > 0:03:24To enjoy walking and country pursuits.
0:03:24 > 0:03:27Phil's also keen to start growing his own vegetables again.
0:03:27 > 0:03:29We love being out in the garden.
0:03:29 > 0:03:32But it's too shady to be able to grow vegetables.
0:03:32 > 0:03:36When we move to the country, that's one of the things we're looking to be able to do.
0:03:36 > 0:03:41Before we start homing in on properties, we've invited a local agent in to give a valuation.
0:03:41 > 0:03:45It's a lovely Edwardian family home, in a great location.
0:03:45 > 0:03:48All in all it's a very desirable property.
0:03:48 > 0:03:53And my recommendation is to market the property at £725,000.
0:03:56 > 0:03:59The Phils want to put some money aside for their retirement.
0:03:59 > 0:04:02Leaving them with a budget of £500,000.
0:04:05 > 0:04:09Will we be able to thrill our Phils and their £500,000 budget,
0:04:09 > 0:04:13in this rather expensive part of the country?
0:04:13 > 0:04:17Essentially they're going to get excited about a kitchen diner,
0:04:17 > 0:04:22open fireplaces, a large garden and a garage to store Phil's tools.
0:04:22 > 0:04:27So, we're going to charm them with properties that have oodles of history and lots of character.
0:04:27 > 0:04:29But, will we deliver?
0:04:29 > 0:04:31Let's find out.
0:04:31 > 0:04:34We'll be starting out search close to the Kent and Sussex border,
0:04:34 > 0:04:39in town of Tenterden. Where there are plenty of trains into London.
0:04:39 > 0:04:43Useful for Philomena's commute into the city.
0:04:43 > 0:04:49I'll be taking Phil and Philomena to see three properties in the local area.
0:04:49 > 0:04:52They'll be viewing them without knowing the asking price.
0:04:52 > 0:04:56Which I'll be revealing at the end of each tour.
0:04:56 > 0:04:58The last of the three will be the mystery house.
0:04:58 > 0:05:00Chosen to put the cat among the pigeons.
0:05:00 > 0:05:03So, Phil and Phil, welcome to Kent.
0:05:03 > 0:05:05I believe you already live in the county?
0:05:05 > 0:05:08Only by postcode. We're in the London borough of Bexley.
0:05:08 > 0:05:13Now originally your budget was 500,000.
0:05:13 > 0:05:14But you've added a bit more.
0:05:14 > 0:05:18We've realised that if we want to get the house of our dreams,
0:05:18 > 0:05:21we're probably going to have to spend £550,000.
0:05:21 > 0:05:25- So, shall we start looking at some properties?- Definitely.- Come on then.
0:05:25 > 0:05:30Phil and Phil have upped their budget to £550,000.
0:05:30 > 0:05:33And although they're downsizing, they still want
0:05:33 > 0:05:38three bedrooms, a kitchen diner, a garage and a large garden.
0:05:38 > 0:05:40So that Phil can grow his own vegetables.
0:05:45 > 0:05:50Property number one is located at Sissinghurst, in the south of the county.
0:05:50 > 0:05:55It's great for commutes, as the nearest train station is just five miles away in Staplehurst.
0:05:55 > 0:06:01The property we're going to see is just off the main road into Sissinghurst.
0:06:01 > 0:06:05This is why I've brought you here. Take a look at this property.
0:06:05 > 0:06:09- It's certainly different. It's beautiful.- It looks quaint.
0:06:09 > 0:06:12Character property which is what we're after.
0:06:12 > 0:06:16It's exactly the sort of thing that we, we'd like to own, I think.
0:06:16 > 0:06:18- Shall we take a look?- Yeah.
0:06:21 > 0:06:23Come on in.
0:06:23 > 0:06:25- It's a little warmer in here. - Yeah, it certainly is.
0:06:25 > 0:06:29It's a good job we're not too tall, to come through the door.
0:06:29 > 0:06:34- Oh, I like this. - The original house was actually built in the 16th century.
0:06:34 > 0:06:36- So, it's Grade II Listed.- Right.
0:06:36 > 0:06:41But from this partition, this stone wall here onwards, that was built in the 1700s.
0:06:41 > 0:06:45And then through there into the kitchen, that was built in the 1930s.
0:06:45 > 0:06:47It's got areas from all periods in the house.
0:06:47 > 0:06:53On the way to the kitchen is a cloakroom and a bright bedroom - perfect for guests.
0:06:53 > 0:06:57But this is what I wanted to bring you to see. The kitchen.
0:06:57 > 0:07:00Well, I think you might be about to make my wife very happy.
0:07:00 > 0:07:03- Yeah. A range. - You've got the range there.
0:07:03 > 0:07:06That heats the whole of the house.
0:07:06 > 0:07:09I think this is exactly what you wanted, wasn't it?
0:07:09 > 0:07:14- A kitchen like this. - This is important for me.
0:07:14 > 0:07:16You've got the butler sink there.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19- I'm the butler.- There you are. We've found your place.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22- You'll be doing the washing! - Plenty of storage too.
0:07:22 > 0:07:24Because that's something that's often lacking in a kitchen.
0:07:24 > 0:07:29- So, a thumbs up for the kitchen. - Yup. I think so.- I think so. - Thumbs up for the hallway.
0:07:29 > 0:07:31- It's a good start. - It is a good start.
0:07:31 > 0:07:34Let's keep looking and exploring.
0:07:34 > 0:07:39At the other end of the hall, in the 17th century part of the house, is the dining room.
0:07:39 > 0:07:46Packed with period features. And just enough room for Philomena's prize possession. Her dining table.
0:07:47 > 0:07:50And this is the living room.
0:07:50 > 0:07:54- Inglenook fireplace. That's something we're after. - You could stand up in there.
0:07:54 > 0:07:57Yeah. We, we could. Might do that in a moment.
0:07:57 > 0:08:05- And again - every room we've been in has been light.- It is light and airy, for an old house.- Yeah.
0:08:05 > 0:08:08And what do you think about the feel of the room?
0:08:08 > 0:08:10Does it feel quite tranquil to you?
0:08:10 > 0:08:14- Yeah. I think.- Yes. it does. I can... I can still hear the road though.
0:08:14 > 0:08:16You can't deny that's it's there.
0:08:16 > 0:08:18So, lots of good points and just one negative so far.
0:08:18 > 0:08:22Will the deal be clinched when they see upstairs?
0:08:22 > 0:08:25You feel the walls leaning in as you come upstairs!
0:08:25 > 0:08:28- It is quite higgledy-piggledy. - Yeah.
0:08:28 > 0:08:30Oh, not... not too bad a size.
0:08:30 > 0:08:35No, the size is fine. And the bathroom is something I can change and alter. So, the actual...
0:08:35 > 0:08:40- it's just the size that's important. And the size is fine. - But you did want an en suite.
0:08:40 > 0:08:43Now unfortunately with this house we can't get you one.
0:08:43 > 0:08:48- But the good news is the master bedroom is just next door.- OK. - Oh, that's handy then.
0:08:48 > 0:08:51Welcome to the master bedroom.
0:08:51 > 0:08:53What do you think?
0:08:53 > 0:08:56Well, first impressions, it's quite small I think.
0:08:56 > 0:08:59It's light again though. You've got the windows at both ends.
0:08:59 > 0:09:01It is light in here. Which is good.
0:09:01 > 0:09:04I haven't seen anything inside that's put me off so far.
0:09:04 > 0:09:10- You know, reasonable size. - You would only have one wardrobe in here. And you have several.
0:09:10 > 0:09:15- We'll get rid of your clothes first. - Yeah.- I don't think I dare comment.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18I'll start an argument here!
0:09:18 > 0:09:21The reality of downsizing is beginning to hit home.
0:09:21 > 0:09:23But there's more space up more stairs.
0:09:23 > 0:09:28Very steep stairs but I think you'll agree it's worth the climb.
0:09:28 > 0:09:29Because this is the other bedroom.
0:09:29 > 0:09:34Oh, this is lovely and light, isn't it? And a cot already.
0:09:34 > 0:09:35Ready for the grandchild.
0:09:35 > 0:09:39There is a problem with storage space, I think, in this house.
0:09:39 > 0:09:41My concern about wardrobes isn't for me. It's for my wife.
0:09:41 > 0:09:43- He's very caring, isn't he? - He is, yes.
0:09:43 > 0:09:47Although storage may be an issue, they need to appreciate
0:09:47 > 0:09:50that downsizing means getting rid of things.
0:09:50 > 0:09:52But what about outside?
0:09:52 > 0:09:56Will that suit Phil's DIY needs and his green fingers?
0:09:56 > 0:09:59Quite a mature garden over here.
0:09:59 > 0:10:01You've got your vegetable patch.
0:10:01 > 0:10:02You've got your greenhouse.
0:10:02 > 0:10:07And you've got that beautiful pond. And then you've got the garage that you so want.
0:10:07 > 0:10:11The garden's themselves I think are, size-wise, are fine.
0:10:11 > 0:10:13So, both Phils, you know what's coming next.
0:10:13 > 0:10:18How much do you think a property like this is on the market for?
0:10:18 > 0:10:22I think it's probably about 525.
0:10:22 > 0:10:26- Phil?- Were it not for the road, it would be a lot more than that.
0:10:26 > 0:10:30- I'd actually price it at 485.- 485.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33- 485.- That's quite low.
0:10:33 > 0:10:39- Well, this house is actually on the market for £465,00.- Oh, OK.
0:10:39 > 0:10:42So, you actually were closest.
0:10:42 > 0:10:46- Cheaper than you thought. - Yeah. I think it would be worth an awful lot more
0:10:46 > 0:10:49were it not for its position, I think.
0:10:49 > 0:10:53Before you make up your minds. Why don't you go have one last look around it?
0:10:53 > 0:10:56OK, thank you.
0:10:56 > 0:11:01This pretty 16th century property comes in at £465,000.
0:11:01 > 0:11:06And that gets you three bedrooms, a lovely big kitchen and a double garage.
0:11:06 > 0:11:09It even has the vegetable patch Phil wants in his garden.
0:11:09 > 0:11:12The question is, were they put off by the lack of storage?
0:11:12 > 0:11:15Downstairs probably exceeded my expectations.
0:11:15 > 0:11:21Though I liked the upstairs, I could see that Phil probably didn't.
0:11:21 > 0:11:26We are supposed to be downsizing. But it's just a little bit small.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28I know that you're worried about storage.
0:11:28 > 0:11:32But if we could solve that, I think this room is perfect.
0:11:32 > 0:11:35I'm looking forward to seeing the next few properties.
0:11:35 > 0:11:39This has opened our eyes to things we wouldn't have looked at.
0:11:39 > 0:11:41It's set quite a high standard.
0:11:44 > 0:11:49- Well, that's one down. But there's plenty more to see. You ready?- Yeah, we are.
0:11:49 > 0:11:51- Yeah.- Excellent. - Great. Off we go.
0:12:02 > 0:12:06For our next house we're off now to Horsmonden,
0:12:06 > 0:12:09down towards the East Sussex border.
0:12:09 > 0:12:13What will please Phil is that it's packed full of history.
0:12:13 > 0:12:18As the guns for Charles I's forces, during the English Civil War, came straight from the local ironworks.
0:12:18 > 0:12:21There's also no shortage of things to do.
0:12:21 > 0:12:26With the weekly farmers market and an annual fair on the village heath.
0:12:26 > 0:12:29So, a nice quiet country lane.
0:12:29 > 0:12:32Because I know that's important for you two.
0:12:32 > 0:12:35And here's the property we want you to take a look at.
0:12:35 > 0:12:40- Wow, that does look impressive. - Looks stunning.
0:12:40 > 0:12:42It's an 18th century weather boarded house.
0:12:42 > 0:12:45It's Grade II Listed. It was originally a pub.
0:12:45 > 0:12:48If you look you can see it's attached to the house next door.
0:12:48 > 0:12:54- Oh, right.- But apparently the local farmer got so upset with his workers coming to frequent the pub.
0:12:54 > 0:13:00- That he actually bought it and turned it into a house.- Better off. - So, let's go have a look inside.
0:13:00 > 0:13:05- And here's the kitchen.- Lovely. This looks very promising.
0:13:05 > 0:13:09- A good size for you two? - Yeah. Very good size, yeah.
0:13:09 > 0:13:12- Granite worktops.- Yes, very nice.
0:13:12 > 0:13:16- Well, let me take you through to the dining room.- It's my taste.
0:13:16 > 0:13:20So, we're now walking into the older part of the house.
0:13:20 > 0:13:22The 18th century.
0:13:22 > 0:13:27I notice the ceilings aren't as low as some beamed rooms that you go into. So, it's nice.
0:13:27 > 0:13:30- It makes it feel more spacious, doesn't it?- Yeah, it does.
0:13:30 > 0:13:34- Those beams are from Chatham Dockyard.- OK.- So, we know the house is 18th century.
0:13:34 > 0:13:38But they're probably far, far older. They might have even gone round the world a few times.
0:13:38 > 0:13:42So, what do you think of this room, as a dining room? Would it work?
0:13:42 > 0:13:44Yes, it's great.
0:13:44 > 0:13:46I think it's really lovely.
0:13:46 > 0:13:50So, it's a great entertaining room. You've also got a cloakroom, opposite the front door.
0:13:50 > 0:13:54- I brought you in the tradesman's entrance.- That's the one I'm allowed in!
0:13:54 > 0:13:57And then this leads straight into the living room.
0:14:02 > 0:14:05Now, what about this?
0:14:05 > 0:14:09Oh, that's really great. Yeah.
0:14:09 > 0:14:13- Just the thing we're after. - It's not a huge room, but it has a spacious feel.
0:14:13 > 0:14:15- It has.- Suit me down to the ground, I think.
0:14:15 > 0:14:20- So, the downstairs of this property is working out quite well.- Yup.
0:14:20 > 0:14:23We've got some more good stuff upstairs.
0:14:25 > 0:14:30Back through the dining room are the main stairs, leading up to the first floor.
0:14:30 > 0:14:32Where we find two characterful bedrooms.
0:14:34 > 0:14:38Down here... I like to think of this as your guest wing.
0:14:38 > 0:14:42This delightful snug room is ideal for family or friends.
0:14:42 > 0:14:45And even has its own en suite.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49Further along the hall is this simply furnished family bathroom.
0:14:49 > 0:14:54But this is what I really wanted to show you. The master bedroom.
0:14:54 > 0:14:58Oh, this is great. This is just the sort of the bedroom we're after.
0:14:58 > 0:15:02- What do you think about the size though of this room? - Yeah, it's a good size.
0:15:02 > 0:15:07- Is this what you had in mind when you're escaping to the country? - It's better that what we had in mind.
0:15:07 > 0:15:11- I'm really impressed by this. Aren't you?- I am, yeah.
0:15:11 > 0:15:14But I've got something else to show you.
0:15:14 > 0:15:18Phil, I want you to lead the way up the second flight of stairs.
0:15:18 > 0:15:22Up in the attic the owners have made ingenious use of the loft space.
0:15:22 > 0:15:27Well, this is... ha! This is different. I didn't expect this.
0:15:27 > 0:15:30Oh, gosh!
0:15:30 > 0:15:32Ah well, this is another extra bedroom, isn't it?
0:15:32 > 0:15:35You certainly have to mind your head.
0:15:35 > 0:15:37But we are literally in the rafters.
0:15:37 > 0:15:41- Yeah.- And you can imagine our grandchildren growing up.
0:15:41 > 0:15:44And wanting to sleep up here away from everybody else.
0:15:44 > 0:15:46So, I love it.
0:15:46 > 0:15:48Opposite is another smaller room.
0:15:48 > 0:15:52Ideal as an office or hobby space. As long as you can get your hobby up here!
0:15:52 > 0:15:58If your past time requires a bit more room, then there's plenty of space outside.
0:15:59 > 0:16:02So, it's a third of an acre.
0:16:02 > 0:16:05Sort of split into three, the way it's been done.
0:16:05 > 0:16:08Quite mature. I know you're a keen gardener, Phil.
0:16:08 > 0:16:14- Could you work with this? - Nothing phases me about it. Because I want to grow vegetables.
0:16:14 > 0:16:16And I think there's plenty of space.
0:16:16 > 0:16:19And it's got the right aspect to do that as well.
0:16:19 > 0:16:23- I think this house sets the standard for any other houses that we see, so...- Sounding positive.
0:16:23 > 0:16:28I like that. So, bearing that in mind, what do you think a house like this is on the market for?
0:16:28 > 0:16:31- Do you want to go first? - No, you go first.
0:16:31 > 0:16:33OK. Well, I would imagine...
0:16:33 > 0:16:39because it is attached and it does need a garage... It's probably priced at, I think, about 525.
0:16:39 > 0:16:42OK. And, Phil, what do you think?
0:16:42 > 0:16:48No, I think it's going to be higher than that. I think it's nearer the 550.
0:16:48 > 0:16:52This house is on the market...
0:16:52 > 0:16:55- for £495,000.- There you go.
0:16:55 > 0:16:58- That's good. That's very good. - It's really good.
0:16:58 > 0:17:02It does leave change, should this be the property of your dreams...
0:17:02 > 0:17:06to build your garage and your workshop. With all your tools.
0:17:06 > 0:17:08- You've made me smile.- There we are.
0:17:08 > 0:17:11With that in mind, do you want to have one last look round?
0:17:11 > 0:17:14- Yeah, we will do, yeah. - OK. See you in a minute.
0:17:14 > 0:17:18So, this period property on the market at £495,000
0:17:18 > 0:17:22definitely has the character they're looking for.
0:17:22 > 0:17:24It has the fireplace they want.
0:17:24 > 0:17:26Plus that kitchen/diner for entertaining.
0:17:26 > 0:17:29It even has the garden Phil is hankering after
0:17:29 > 0:17:31to grow his own vegetables.
0:17:31 > 0:17:33And with this property well under budget,
0:17:33 > 0:17:36this one could be a winner.
0:17:36 > 0:17:38I really like this house.
0:17:38 > 0:17:40But I think my wife is smitten by it.
0:17:40 > 0:17:42It's a beautiful house.
0:17:42 > 0:17:46Everything's, you know, lovely in it. It's well looked after.
0:17:46 > 0:17:49You walk in and it has that nice warm feeling about it.
0:17:49 > 0:17:53Great kitchen, dining room. I think it's a good space.
0:17:53 > 0:17:58Nice units. We've got a table. That's something I wanted.
0:17:58 > 0:18:01I think the space in this house is perfect. Exactly the right size.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04Ah, smiling faces.
0:18:04 > 0:18:07That's always a good sign!
0:18:13 > 0:18:19As the last of the afternoon sun fades away, it marks the end of our first day of house-hunting.
0:18:25 > 0:18:29Well, it's the beginning of day two and I thought yesterday went pretty well.
0:18:29 > 0:18:32We showed them properties at the lower end of their budget.
0:18:32 > 0:18:35But today we're upping the ante.
0:18:35 > 0:18:38For the mystery property, we're slipping across the border.
0:18:38 > 0:18:42Near to the tiny hamlet of Netherfield in East Sussex.
0:18:42 > 0:18:46And, if it's history you're after, then just up the road is Battle.
0:18:46 > 0:18:49The site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings.
0:18:49 > 0:18:54Your eyes have instantly caught the mystery property.
0:18:54 > 0:18:59- A barn conversion.- Yeah. And it's really nice-looking, isn't it?
0:18:59 > 0:19:02- It's great.- It looks contemporary.
0:19:02 > 0:19:07- But it actually is a Grade II Listed building.- Doesn't look it.- Oh, that's surprising.
0:19:07 > 0:19:09It's been done really carefully.
0:19:09 > 0:19:14To the side isn't a garage, but there is permission to have a double garage built there.
0:19:14 > 0:19:16That's fine. As long as I can put my garage up.
0:19:16 > 0:19:19So, can you imagine yourself living in a building like this?
0:19:19 > 0:19:23- I can't wait to get inside.- What about you, Phil?- I'm not sure.
0:19:23 > 0:19:26So, I think I'll reserve judgment until I get in there.
0:19:26 > 0:19:29- Can we go inside, please? - Are you desperate to?- Yeah.
0:19:29 > 0:19:32I'll put you out of your misery. Come on then.
0:19:32 > 0:19:37This stunning barn conversion has been painstakingly taken apart. And put back together again.
0:19:37 > 0:19:41Perfectly marrying tradition with cutting-edge modernity.
0:19:41 > 0:19:45Here we are. The glass hallway.
0:19:45 > 0:19:48Certainly a different style to anything we've seen.
0:19:48 > 0:19:50I wouldn't expect this in a barn.
0:19:50 > 0:19:54It's very different. What are your first impressions?
0:19:54 > 0:19:59I was expecting to walk into a barn. And this clearly isn't just a barn.
0:19:59 > 0:20:01This is a house of two halves.
0:20:01 > 0:20:03I like to think of this as the guest area.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06You've got fabulous York stone through here.
0:20:06 > 0:20:09Lots of glass and this.
0:20:09 > 0:20:11This would be the guest bedroom.
0:20:11 > 0:20:15- Phil, you're speechless.- I think we both are, really.- Yeah.
0:20:15 > 0:20:19What do you think about the room itself, for your guests?
0:20:19 > 0:20:24- I think the guests would like it. - Yeah.- I think they would think it was so different.
0:20:24 > 0:20:27It's not like anything else they're ever likely to stay in.
0:20:27 > 0:20:31Although there's a lot of glass it doesn't feel cold particularly.
0:20:31 > 0:20:34No. Interesting, I think.
0:20:34 > 0:20:36The extensive use of glass creates a solar gain.
0:20:36 > 0:20:40And actually heats the property, keeping the warmth inside.
0:20:40 > 0:20:45Next door has the signature high vaulted ceilings.
0:20:45 > 0:20:48And under floor heating to warm up your toes on the way to the bathroom.
0:20:48 > 0:20:52So, there's your bathroom for your guests. Go in and have a look.
0:20:52 > 0:20:56Wow, this is a nice size. Yeah, I like the tiling. Like that radiator.
0:20:56 > 0:20:58Quirky that one, isn't it?
0:20:58 > 0:21:01But now I want you trust me.
0:21:01 > 0:21:02So, step on out, Phil.
0:21:02 > 0:21:04Hold my hands.
0:21:04 > 0:21:09- Close your eyes.- Oh, close our eyes. - Because now is the important bit.
0:21:09 > 0:21:11- This is where you two could possibly live.- OK.
0:21:11 > 0:21:17One, two, three, four, five.
0:21:17 > 0:21:22Keep them closed. I want you to turn round and reveal.
0:21:22 > 0:21:24- Ah!- Ah! Oh, the spiral staircase.
0:21:24 > 0:21:27- Staircase. - But what a spiral staircase.
0:21:27 > 0:21:31- It's all one space.- This is contemporary living, isn't it?
0:21:31 > 0:21:34It is contemporary living in the country.
0:21:34 > 0:21:36- I'm gob-smacked. - You don't know what to say. Ha!
0:21:36 > 0:21:41- I don't know what to say. - You're never speechless. Unusual kitchen.
0:21:41 > 0:21:43Completely different from anything else we've seen.
0:21:43 > 0:21:47- It's like something you see in a magazine.- It is, yeah.
0:21:47 > 0:21:50You do have your dining area. Very close to the kitchen.
0:21:50 > 0:21:54Whether that's a big enough space for my table, I'm not sure.
0:21:54 > 0:21:56Whether the table would fit in.
0:21:56 > 0:21:59But as an entrance when you look at this room,
0:21:59 > 0:22:02and the light reflecting off this staircase.
0:22:02 > 0:22:03This glass staircase...
0:22:03 > 0:22:07- it cost £30,000. How's that for a statement?- 30,000!
0:22:07 > 0:22:1330,000. It's suspended from the two beams. So, it's a massive feat of engineering.
0:22:13 > 0:22:15And it literally just hangs there.
0:22:15 > 0:22:18That... that is a lovely view, to look out there.
0:22:18 > 0:22:20It's like having a big picture.
0:22:20 > 0:22:22Let's wander through the room.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25What's really clever is the use of glass.
0:22:25 > 0:22:27The large windows bring the outside in.
0:22:27 > 0:22:30And the floating staircase almost disappears.
0:22:30 > 0:22:35It's the first room I've seen where a large flat screen TV doesn't look large.
0:22:35 > 0:22:39We could out-do our friend Keith. Who's got the largest we've ever seen.
0:22:39 > 0:22:42You could get 100-inch one on there!
0:22:42 > 0:22:47Well, this room is dominated by this amazing staircase. So, let's take a look.
0:22:49 > 0:22:51It's certainly a grand entrance.
0:22:51 > 0:22:53Amazing.
0:22:53 > 0:22:59- Gosh! - Wherever you are in this property, you get those amazing views outside.
0:22:59 > 0:23:05You're also on intimate terms with your neighbours. Because this, this is your bedroom.
0:23:05 > 0:23:07It's certainly big.
0:23:07 > 0:23:11The height makes it seem, you know, much larger than the floor space.
0:23:11 > 0:23:15- Doesn't it?- It's a good size and...
0:23:15 > 0:23:17But not too much storage in here. I don't see much.
0:23:17 > 0:23:20Where do they keep their clothes, I wonder?
0:23:20 > 0:23:23That is a very good question. They obviously are minimalists.
0:23:23 > 0:23:27We've seen one big wardrobe in one of the bedrooms and that is it.
0:23:27 > 0:23:30It's certainly different. It's not a normal way of living.
0:23:30 > 0:23:33Neither is this amazing en suite.
0:23:33 > 0:23:39Which, as with everything else in this bespoke property, is finished to the highest standards.
0:23:39 > 0:23:43And as Phil may be wondering, could be cranking up the asking price.
0:23:43 > 0:23:46So, here's your garden. You've got railway sleepers along here.
0:23:46 > 0:23:49You've got the York stone here.
0:23:49 > 0:23:51Nice little private dining area.
0:23:51 > 0:23:55Obviously you've got the railway sleepers and the York stone -
0:23:55 > 0:23:57leading up to the rest of the garden.
0:23:57 > 0:23:59There's a bit of land up here.
0:23:59 > 0:24:05- But the great thing about this area is you get to appreciate that barn. - Yes, you can see it.
0:24:05 > 0:24:09Yeah. As a recreation garden it is a lovely view, isn't it?
0:24:09 > 0:24:12So, how much do you think this property is on the market for?
0:24:12 > 0:24:18It's got to be on the market for over 600,000. And I'd probably say 620.
0:24:18 > 0:24:24- 620. OK. Phil, what do you think? - I don't think I'll go as high as that.
0:24:24 > 0:24:31- I reckon it's 600,000, yeah. 600,000.- Put us out of our misery!
0:24:31 > 0:24:35600,000. Well, I have to tell you that Mrs Phil is the closest.
0:24:35 > 0:24:38- Because this is on the market for £595,000.- OK!
0:24:38 > 0:24:40- That's quite a surprise!- Yeah.
0:24:40 > 0:24:45And do you fancy the idea of modern living in the countryside? Because it is contemporary.
0:24:45 > 0:24:47How much to rent it for a year, do you reckon?
0:24:47 > 0:24:50I'm liking your style. We might have to negotiate.
0:24:50 > 0:24:55- Go and take another look around. All right, see you in a minute. Enjoy.- Thank you. Bye-bye.
0:24:55 > 0:25:03So, at £595,000 our Grade II Listed mystery house is over budget.
0:25:03 > 0:25:07But with three bedrooms, that stunning steel and glass staircase.
0:25:07 > 0:25:10And all the mod cons you could possibly need for luxury living.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13Will our house hunters consider pushing the boat out?
0:25:13 > 0:25:17When you come inside and you see all the work lavished on it...
0:25:17 > 0:25:20the staircase, the kitchen.
0:25:20 > 0:25:22It's something quite special.
0:25:22 > 0:25:25No storage. Don't know where we'd put anything!
0:25:25 > 0:25:28I think if I were to get divorced tomorrow then yeah, probably could.
0:25:28 > 0:25:31It'd be a nice place to come off and pack down.
0:25:31 > 0:25:34But I'm not going to get divorced. Promise you that, Phil!
0:25:35 > 0:25:38Time to leave the mystery property.
0:25:38 > 0:25:42And to make some serious choices.
0:25:42 > 0:25:45Phil and Phil have seen all the properties.
0:25:45 > 0:25:48So, it's time to collect their thoughts and make a decision.
0:25:51 > 0:25:54Well, it's decision time.
0:25:54 > 0:25:57And we've seen such a range of properties, my head is spinning.
0:25:57 > 0:26:00But what about theirs? Let's find out.
0:26:03 > 0:26:06So, Phil and Phil. Well, our journey's nearly over.
0:26:06 > 0:26:11But we've seen some beautiful parts of Kent and East Sussex. Mustn't forget that.
0:26:11 > 0:26:16Well, the first property, the weather boarded house. What were your first impressions?
0:26:16 > 0:26:18It was a nice-looking house.
0:26:18 > 0:26:21I might not have even looked at a house of that age.
0:26:21 > 0:26:26And that's one view that I certainly changed when we went inside.
0:26:26 > 0:26:29What about that beautiful house that used to be a pub?
0:26:29 > 0:26:31It was a lovely-looking house.
0:26:31 > 0:26:37And then when we went through the front door, I thought you know... the kitchen was just what I wanted.
0:26:37 > 0:26:40I guess when I walked in I felt, I've got a battle on here.
0:26:40 > 0:26:44Because I knew that Phil had fallen in love with it.
0:26:44 > 0:26:47And for myself I thought, what am I going to do if I move into this house?
0:26:47 > 0:26:52- It gave you all the land you wanted. - It did.- And I think that could have been your project.
0:26:52 > 0:26:53You've got a starting point.
0:26:53 > 0:26:58- Perhaps I'll go and drive steam trains when it rains. - A strong contender.
0:26:58 > 0:27:03It would be fair to say that we've seen quite different properties over the last few days.
0:27:03 > 0:27:07But I don't think you were expecting anything like the mystery house.
0:27:07 > 0:27:11It was so different from anything I would choose to look at.
0:27:11 > 0:27:17The excitement you felt from just walking in and looking at it. You couldn't deny that.
0:27:17 > 0:27:20You certainly had to admire all the work they'd done in it.
0:27:20 > 0:27:24- They'd got it spot on.- Well, that brings me to crunch time really.
0:27:24 > 0:27:29We're going to have to make a decision. Out of all the properties you've seen over the last few days,
0:27:29 > 0:27:31is there any one you're really interested in?
0:27:31 > 0:27:36- The old pub, I think, for me. And you can come and have a pint. - Yeah, it was in the perfect place.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38Had a wonderful garden.
0:27:38 > 0:27:40There was no road noise.
0:27:40 > 0:27:44- I think that was a great place to live.- Yeah, if the price was right
0:27:44 > 0:27:45we might well consider putting an offer in.
0:27:45 > 0:27:50So, quite possibly we might have found you the house of your dreams.
0:27:50 > 0:27:53- So, you can escape to the country? - I think you might have done.
0:27:57 > 0:28:02I've enjoyed showing Phil and Phil round my home county of Kent.
0:28:02 > 0:28:06And delighted we may have found them a property to suit their needs.
0:28:06 > 0:28:13What I discovered is that when you're looking for your dream house, you have to keep an open mind.
0:28:13 > 0:28:16Until next time, bye-bye.
0:28:16 > 0:28:20And if you'd like to escape to the country and need our help,
0:28:20 > 0:28:25please contact us via our website at...
0:28:36 > 0:28:40Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:28:40 > 0:28:43E-mail: subtitling@bbc.co.uk