0:00:02 > 0:00:04Today I'm with Maisie and Daisy and their calves
0:00:04 > 0:00:06and they have a special job to do.
0:00:06 > 0:00:11They're crucial to the making of a very famous and pungent local delicacy
0:00:11 > 0:00:13that can only officially be made
0:00:13 > 0:00:15from cow's milk from three counties,
0:00:15 > 0:00:17one of which I'm in today.
0:00:17 > 0:00:19Where am I? Intrigued?
0:00:19 > 0:00:22Join me to find out as we Escape To The Country.
0:00:36 > 0:00:39In today's show I'll be helping a couple say goodbye
0:00:39 > 0:00:42to their old life and search for a new pad in the country.
0:00:42 > 0:00:45Did you expect to see this at the top of the stairs?
0:00:45 > 0:00:48- No!- That's got a wow factor!
0:00:48 > 0:00:52I'll be showing them a selection of fantastic houses and as ever,
0:00:52 > 0:00:54it's all about location.
0:00:54 > 0:00:57- There's a pub just around the corner.- Now you're talking!
0:00:57 > 0:01:00And of course there's the mystery house
0:01:00 > 0:01:02but will any of the properties
0:01:02 > 0:01:05entice the cash out of their pockets?
0:01:06 > 0:01:11Today we're in Leicestershire, home to two distinct cheeses,
0:01:11 > 0:01:12its namesake, Red Leicester,
0:01:12 > 0:01:16and of course the glorious king of cheeses, Stilton.
0:01:16 > 0:01:21Now it takes around 20 litres of milk to make a cheese of this size
0:01:21 > 0:01:22but it's not just the local produce
0:01:22 > 0:01:25that makes this county a mature choice.
0:01:25 > 0:01:28It's the quiet villages, vibrant market towns
0:01:28 > 0:01:32and genteel countryside that really make it the big cheese.
0:01:32 > 0:01:36Land-locked and sandwiched between seven counties,
0:01:36 > 0:01:39Leicestershire's proximity to the Black Country
0:01:39 > 0:01:42has meant that its western and northern edges are dotted
0:01:42 > 0:01:45with rather large industrial towns, but outside these settlements,
0:01:45 > 0:01:49Leicestershire's countryside boasts some of Britain's best.
0:01:49 > 0:01:51Rolling farmland to popular villages,
0:01:51 > 0:01:54there's plenty of space for those seeking the rural escape.
0:01:54 > 0:01:57The county capital and namesake of Leicester is a thriving
0:01:57 > 0:02:00and multicultural city, which is also home
0:02:00 > 0:02:02to Europe's largest covered market.
0:02:02 > 0:02:06To the south is Market Harborough, a medieval town with a busy shopping promenade
0:02:06 > 0:02:09harking back to the days when it was
0:02:09 > 0:02:12an important cattle and sheep trading post.
0:02:12 > 0:02:15With a lack of quarried stone in the area the housing stock
0:02:15 > 0:02:18is predominantly made up of attractive red brick houses
0:02:18 > 0:02:21and sand and ironstone cottages.
0:02:24 > 0:02:27Leicestershire's great central location and accessibility
0:02:27 > 0:02:31to large towns means that the average detached house
0:02:31 > 0:02:36is just 3% below the national, at around £234,000.
0:02:36 > 0:02:38But it's worth bearing in mind
0:02:38 > 0:02:43the further southeast you travel, property prices become more expensive
0:02:43 > 0:02:46because of some prestigious schools in the area.
0:02:46 > 0:02:49So, if you're thinking of moving to Leicestershire,
0:02:49 > 0:02:53have a look at what's on offer across the county to suit all budgets.
0:02:53 > 0:02:57If you can splash out to the tune of £1.5 million,
0:02:57 > 0:03:01then take a peek at this six-bedroom house in Thringstone.
0:03:01 > 0:03:03The modern kitchen sits comfortably within
0:03:03 > 0:03:06the walls of this old building and the fabulous conservatory
0:03:06 > 0:03:10is the perfect place from which to survey the 13 acres of garden.
0:03:10 > 0:03:14If your budget is more around the £550,00 mark, then this modern
0:03:14 > 0:03:19five-bedroom thatched house in Great Easton is up for grabs.
0:03:19 > 0:03:21The neutral decor will have wide appeal,
0:03:21 > 0:03:23as will the large sociable kitchen.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26Much thought has gone into the landscape garden
0:03:26 > 0:03:28and needs very little maintenance.
0:03:28 > 0:03:32A little less pricy at £359,000 is this five to six-bedroom
0:03:32 > 0:03:36barn conversion in Bredon on the Hill.
0:03:36 > 0:03:39If you're chasing exposed beams and spacious accommodation,
0:03:39 > 0:03:42then this property could be up your street.
0:03:43 > 0:03:46So, there's certainly some great deals out there
0:03:46 > 0:03:47for the discerning buyer.
0:03:47 > 0:03:51Talking of which, let's meet today's escapees.
0:03:51 > 0:03:53Carol and Howard are retired hoteliers
0:03:53 > 0:03:56who met and married in Wigston in Leicestershire.
0:03:56 > 0:04:00For the last 40 years they've been like rolling stones,
0:04:00 > 0:04:03with Howard's career taking them around the UK,
0:04:03 > 0:04:05forcing them to move twelve times!
0:04:05 > 0:04:08With recent retirement, they've decided to put down roots
0:04:08 > 0:04:10and make a move from their temporary rented cottage
0:04:10 > 0:04:14in Kirby Moorside, North Yorkshire.
0:04:14 > 0:04:17We love the peace and quiet of the countryside.
0:04:17 > 0:04:21We rent the property now and consequently we would like to
0:04:21 > 0:04:23own our own house in the countryside,
0:04:23 > 0:04:25with the tranquillity it has to offer.
0:04:25 > 0:04:27Although they're living in rural North Yorkshire,
0:04:27 > 0:04:29it's not where their hearts lie.
0:04:29 > 0:04:32We'd like to move to the South Leicestershire area,
0:04:32 > 0:04:35it's an area where we have lived in the past.
0:04:35 > 0:04:39There's a lot of lovely little villages in the country area there
0:04:39 > 0:04:42and we've got family there, Carol's still got some family.
0:04:42 > 0:04:46There is the countryside around that area which we like particularly.
0:04:46 > 0:04:49We've been looking about twelve to eighteen months.
0:04:49 > 0:04:54We haven't found a dream house yet
0:04:54 > 0:04:59because the ones we have seen have either had a railway or a road
0:04:59 > 0:05:03or they've been on a flight path or anything like that!
0:05:03 > 0:05:07Carol and Howard have enjoyed spacious accommodation
0:05:07 > 0:05:09in many of the properties attached to the businesses,
0:05:09 > 0:05:13so now that they're hunting for their own private house, what are they hoping for?
0:05:13 > 0:05:17In my next house I would like a manageable size garden
0:05:17 > 0:05:20that has enough room for a veg patch
0:05:20 > 0:05:25and a flower patch for Carol and a view like this.
0:05:25 > 0:05:29I used to enjoy knitting and needlework of all types
0:05:29 > 0:05:34and I would like to have a room where I could sit on my own
0:05:34 > 0:05:36and enjoy doing it again.
0:05:36 > 0:05:41I would like an outside work shed where I can have my tools
0:05:41 > 0:05:46so I can do all the DIY that Carol wants me to do.
0:05:46 > 0:05:48And Howard has one final request.
0:05:48 > 0:05:51One of my passions is to paint and now that I'm retired,
0:05:51 > 0:05:55I'd like a house where I can have the space to do that.
0:05:55 > 0:05:57Well, we shall do our very best,
0:05:57 > 0:05:59but, in a nutshell what are they looking for?
0:05:59 > 0:06:02A south-facing, open-views,
0:06:02 > 0:06:05with a minimum of three bedrooms,
0:06:05 > 0:06:09large reception room and a large kitchen.
0:06:09 > 0:06:13We like big windows. Little cottage windows aren't our scene, really.
0:06:13 > 0:06:16We like big windows and...
0:06:16 > 0:06:19We need to be in the countryside, the best of both worlds,
0:06:19 > 0:06:24in the countryside but nearer facilities than we are now
0:06:24 > 0:06:27and Carol would like to be near a pub, too!
0:06:29 > 0:06:32I've a funny feeling that Howard might like that, too,
0:06:32 > 0:06:36and the new life they crave can't come soon enough!
0:06:36 > 0:06:37My dream lifestyle
0:06:37 > 0:06:42is socialising more, if I can,
0:06:42 > 0:06:47with friends that we've never had time for before, being in business.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52Sitting back and relaxing and doing nothing.
0:06:52 > 0:06:55I've been practising, I'm getting quite good now!
0:06:55 > 0:06:57So how much do they have to spend?
0:06:57 > 0:07:01If we find a property that ticks all the boxes,
0:07:01 > 0:07:05our maximum budget would be £350,000.
0:07:08 > 0:07:10So, Carol and Howard
0:07:10 > 0:07:13have a fairly modest budget for everything they're after.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16The two of them want a minimum of three bedrooms,
0:07:16 > 0:07:19a lounge and separate dining area, some reception rooms
0:07:19 > 0:07:23to enjoy their hobbies and manageable garden
0:07:23 > 0:07:25and some outside space for Howard,
0:07:25 > 0:07:28all this on the edge of a village with a pub!
0:07:28 > 0:07:30I love a challenge!
0:07:30 > 0:07:33Carol and Howard want to be in close proximity
0:07:33 > 0:07:37to their families in Leicester and Market Harborough
0:07:37 > 0:07:40but are also keen to explore the east of the county towards Oakham,
0:07:40 > 0:07:44so we've centred the search roughly around these three spots.
0:07:44 > 0:07:46In today's show I'll be taking them on a tour of three
0:07:46 > 0:07:48of the best houses we could find for their budget,
0:07:48 > 0:07:52but as ever, I won't be revealing the price tag straightaway.
0:07:52 > 0:07:56The last of the three will be the mystery house, which always has
0:07:56 > 0:07:58the potential to shake things up.
0:08:01 > 0:08:03Howard and Carol, welcome to Leicestershire.
0:08:03 > 0:08:04Thank you.
0:08:04 > 0:08:07- I believe this was your childhood stomping ground?- It is!
0:08:07 > 0:08:08So how long ago did you leave?
0:08:08 > 0:08:12It would be about 35 years ago we left the area.
0:08:12 > 0:08:14So it's time to come back?
0:08:14 > 0:08:15I was very young then!
0:08:15 > 0:08:18Very young? Of course, and she was even younger, weren't you, Carol?
0:08:18 > 0:08:20- Absolutely!- Of course!
0:08:20 > 0:08:24Now we're surrounded by beautiful old cottages, very small windows,
0:08:24 > 0:08:26not a lot of natural light,
0:08:26 > 0:08:28but you want something slightly different, don't you?
0:08:28 > 0:08:32Slightly. Slightly more modern, big windows, picture windows,
0:08:32 > 0:08:34patio doors, things like that.
0:08:34 > 0:08:36We can be flexible.
0:08:36 > 0:08:38I like that, "flexible" is the word that I like!
0:08:38 > 0:08:42I don't mind one or two feature things in the place.
0:08:42 > 0:08:46Oh, that's good, so we're open-minded, we've got a budget of £350,000
0:08:46 > 0:08:49that's in the bank, so that's a great position to be in,
0:08:49 > 0:08:52so we've got lots of options, so are you ready?
0:08:52 > 0:08:53We're ready to go!
0:08:53 > 0:08:56We've got some very interesting properties for you today
0:08:56 > 0:08:59and of course the mystery property, so shall we start and take a look?
0:08:59 > 0:09:01- Yes!- Why not! Lovely!
0:09:02 > 0:09:06So Carol and Howard have a budget of £350,000.
0:09:06 > 0:09:10Ideally they'd like a three bedroom detached house with plenty of space
0:09:10 > 0:09:15and light, a good size reception room, a hobby room each, a garden
0:09:15 > 0:09:19large enough for a vegetable patch and a village pub to round it off.
0:09:19 > 0:09:23We're going to be hard-pushed to meet all their requirements,
0:09:23 > 0:09:26so let's hope they really are flexible!
0:09:26 > 0:09:29So it's been quite a few years since you two left Leicestershire, hasn't it?
0:09:29 > 0:09:31- It has indeed.- It has!
0:09:31 > 0:09:35But we used to walk hand in hand through this area,
0:09:35 > 0:09:37when we were courting.
0:09:37 > 0:09:39Aah, so I've brought you back somewhere
0:09:39 > 0:09:42- where you've got lovely memories? - Yes!
0:09:42 > 0:09:46It's a pleasure to be able to bring Carol and Howard
0:09:46 > 0:09:49back to their roots. I just hope we can find them the perfect home!
0:09:49 > 0:09:52The first property we are viewing is in Fleckney,
0:09:52 > 0:09:54eight miles south-east of Leicester.
0:09:54 > 0:09:58It was a farming community until the 19th century, but today
0:09:58 > 0:10:00it's a popular commuter village.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03There's a selection of amenities including a library
0:10:03 > 0:10:06that Carol and Howard might like to make use of in their retirement
0:10:06 > 0:10:10and where better to read those books than by the village pond!
0:10:10 > 0:10:13And here's your first property.
0:10:13 > 0:10:18This is a 19th century barn that's recently been converted.
0:10:18 > 0:10:19Well, it's different!
0:10:19 > 0:10:24- Yes! Big windows!- Lots of windows!
0:10:24 > 0:10:26That's the first thing that hits you, the windows.
0:10:26 > 0:10:29And the best news is, there's a pub just around the corner!
0:10:29 > 0:10:31Oh, now you're talking!
0:10:31 > 0:10:33So shall we take a look inside?
0:10:33 > 0:10:35- Love to!- Yes.- OK.
0:10:37 > 0:10:41So here's the main entrance to the barn, but I'm actually going
0:10:41 > 0:10:46to take us through this way first, so this is the sitting room,
0:10:46 > 0:10:49lots of open space. You get lots of natural light.
0:10:49 > 0:10:53The only thing is that immediately strikes me, it's a bit of a goldfish bowl
0:10:53 > 0:10:55with people overlooking from there.
0:10:55 > 0:11:00They are close, but you could plant hedges, bigger shrubs, small trees
0:11:00 > 0:11:01to get a little bit more privacy.
0:11:01 > 0:11:04It's south-westerly facing so you get a lot of light
0:11:04 > 0:11:08and sun throughout the day, if the sun's shining that is!
0:11:08 > 0:11:10But very open, very spacious,
0:11:10 > 0:11:13just been finished by the developers and what do you think
0:11:13 > 0:11:16about the ceilings, because they are very high?
0:11:16 > 0:11:20High's a lot to heat in the winter, but then the hot air goes out
0:11:20 > 0:11:22in the summer, so you've got the best of both worlds.
0:11:22 > 0:11:25- Shall we take a look at the rest of the house?- Yes, please.
0:11:25 > 0:11:29High ceilings certainly do give the feeling of space,
0:11:29 > 0:11:31but the rooms will require more energy to heat.
0:11:31 > 0:11:34So there's the main entrance, the front door.
0:11:34 > 0:11:35OK.
0:11:35 > 0:11:39We've got a cloakroom there and then you walk straight into this dining area,
0:11:39 > 0:11:42again real high ceilings.
0:11:42 > 0:11:44That's large for a dining room, isn't it?
0:11:44 > 0:11:47I can see we've got some views of the countryside.
0:11:47 > 0:11:49That hit me first of all.
0:11:49 > 0:11:51- I see. Looks good, doesn't it? - Yep, I like that.
0:11:51 > 0:11:55I think I would have liked bigger doors, patio doors.
0:11:55 > 0:11:57Again to get more natural light in?
0:11:57 > 0:11:59Yeah, get more light in, yes.
0:11:59 > 0:12:02I instantly think of putting a conservatory out there,
0:12:02 > 0:12:07because then we've got total views, I can have my art studio out there,
0:12:07 > 0:12:09and the privacy.
0:12:09 > 0:12:11I think we've got to save Carol's money up
0:12:11 > 0:12:13and get a conservatory out there.
0:12:13 > 0:12:15I'm liking this! Well, let's see if you like the kitchen.
0:12:15 > 0:12:19Again, light and airy.
0:12:19 > 0:12:22Nice units, wooden units, fitted kitchen, all mod cons.
0:12:22 > 0:12:24I think it's been really nicely done,
0:12:24 > 0:12:27and is it big enough for your needs, do you think?
0:12:27 > 0:12:29It would be yes, yes, I would think so.
0:12:29 > 0:12:32Apart from we were looking for a...
0:12:32 > 0:12:35Well, I suppose you could have your dining room in there... breakfast.
0:12:35 > 0:12:38That's a good point, yeah. You've got the dining room there.
0:12:38 > 0:12:41The other thing you could do is you could put a
0:12:41 > 0:12:45small table and chairs here, a bit like a breakfast bar, perhaps.
0:12:45 > 0:12:46Yeah, yeah.
0:12:46 > 0:12:48So we're liking the kitchen?
0:12:48 > 0:12:49Indeed, yes, we are.
0:12:49 > 0:12:52- OK, ready to see the rest of the house?- Yes.
0:12:52 > 0:12:55I like to think of this as the guest wing. Follow me!
0:12:58 > 0:13:01So here's the first guest bedroom.
0:13:01 > 0:13:04It's a large double and again, beautiful beams.
0:13:04 > 0:13:06More beams, lovely beams, yeah.
0:13:06 > 0:13:09Throughout the barn, very high ceilings, so it's a fair size,
0:13:09 > 0:13:14but it makes it even bigger just having the ceilings so high.
0:13:14 > 0:13:18It really bothers us, it's starting to bother us a bit now.
0:13:18 > 0:13:19The high ceilings...
0:13:19 > 0:13:21getting up there to decorate!
0:13:21 > 0:13:24Well, that's a good point, because it is quite a way.
0:13:24 > 0:13:28- You've also got to change those light bulbs occasionally.- Yes, yes.
0:13:28 > 0:13:32But a fair size for a guest bedroom I think you'd agree, wouldn't you?
0:13:32 > 0:13:33- Yes.- Yes.
0:13:33 > 0:13:37There's no fitted wardrobes, though, which I was hoping for!
0:13:37 > 0:13:38Now that's a good point.
0:13:38 > 0:13:40You could put one here, but then again it does...
0:13:40 > 0:13:44You lose the chair. I like the idea of the chair, you can't have both.
0:13:44 > 0:13:47There are three further double bedrooms in this barn conversion.
0:13:47 > 0:13:49Two of them are immediately next door --
0:13:49 > 0:13:53they're not massive, but have views out to the courtyard.
0:13:53 > 0:13:56The family bathroom is located in this wing of the house too,
0:13:56 > 0:13:58but the room we have lined up for Carol and Howard
0:13:58 > 0:14:00is at the other end of the house.
0:14:02 > 0:14:05And this is the master bedroom.
0:14:05 > 0:14:07Aah!
0:14:07 > 0:14:08Keeping it as a surprise for us!
0:14:08 > 0:14:11Yep, we left it till last. Now obviously it's off the
0:14:11 > 0:14:15sitting room, which is unusual. How do you feel about that?
0:14:15 > 0:14:19We've got our own independence, if you like, from the rest of the
0:14:19 > 0:14:22guests. I like that very much indeed.
0:14:22 > 0:14:26Well, have a little peek. There's the en-suite through there.
0:14:31 > 0:14:32Nice shower.
0:14:32 > 0:14:33That'll do, will that??
0:14:33 > 0:14:35That's enough, is it?
0:14:35 > 0:14:36Yes.
0:14:36 > 0:14:38And how do you feel with having
0:14:38 > 0:14:41your bedroom being on this side of the house?
0:14:41 > 0:14:43Still the same thing about the goldfish bowl, but
0:14:43 > 0:14:47it's lovely to have a door, at least we can go outside.
0:14:47 > 0:14:48But still not a wardrobe!
0:14:48 > 0:14:50It's not a huge room, is it?
0:14:50 > 0:14:51No.
0:14:51 > 0:14:55Well, I might be able to provide a solution to some of those problems.
0:14:55 > 0:14:57Follow me.
0:14:57 > 0:15:01'The land at the back lends itself to a few options.
0:15:01 > 0:15:05'Firstly, Howard will be pleased to know planning permission
0:15:05 > 0:15:10'has been granted for a garage, and for Carol, I have a suggestion.'
0:15:10 > 0:15:13Now these are loose boxes and the developer has got permission
0:15:13 > 0:15:16to use this as dwelling. He's going to put a roof on it
0:15:16 > 0:15:21so should you want to do something quite clever, this side of the barn
0:15:21 > 0:15:23is where your guest area is.
0:15:23 > 0:15:28You could knock through, make that a big bedroom with an en-suite,
0:15:28 > 0:15:31you could even get a dressing room, Carol, on the end!
0:15:31 > 0:15:34That might be of interest?
0:15:34 > 0:15:37It could, but it's all going to add to the cost, so it's all
0:15:37 > 0:15:39going to be relevant as far as the cost is concerned,
0:15:39 > 0:15:41particularly if you're talking about a garage.
0:15:41 > 0:15:43It's very interesting.
0:15:43 > 0:15:45At least Howard is open-minded.
0:15:45 > 0:15:47Our final stop is the garden.
0:15:47 > 0:15:48So you like this area, Howard?
0:15:48 > 0:15:52I don't know -- perhaps it is a little bit bigger than we
0:15:52 > 0:15:56had imagined, it's more than we would want, do you think?
0:15:56 > 0:16:00Well, by the time we've got a garage going back,
0:16:00 > 0:16:04you've got your vegetable patch, there's not going to be a lot left!
0:16:04 > 0:16:06By the time you've got your conservatory on as well
0:16:06 > 0:16:08that's going to go out that way!
0:16:08 > 0:16:12So the garden for you?
0:16:12 > 0:16:15A shade bigger than we would want, but we could manage it.
0:16:15 > 0:16:18Let's go to the front of the house and start thinking what you
0:16:18 > 0:16:20think a property like this might be worth?
0:16:20 > 0:16:22OK.
0:16:27 > 0:16:30So we've had a good look around the property -- buying it's now down
0:16:30 > 0:16:34to money, so how much do you think a property like this is worth?
0:16:34 > 0:16:37Who is going to go first, Carol?
0:16:37 > 0:16:40I'll go first, then.
0:16:40 > 0:16:44I'd say £50 under 300.
0:16:44 > 0:16:46So just shy of £300,000?
0:16:46 > 0:16:47Yes.
0:16:47 > 0:16:49Howard, what about you?
0:16:49 > 0:16:52I think it's going to be on the market for £320,000.
0:16:52 > 0:16:56320... just under 300,000.
0:16:56 > 0:16:59Well, I can tell you that Howard, you are closer, but I think you're
0:16:59 > 0:17:02going to be quite shocked at the price,
0:17:02 > 0:17:07because this is currently on the market for £345,000.
0:17:07 > 0:17:08OK.
0:17:08 > 0:17:10So, a little bit more than you expected.
0:17:10 > 0:17:12Disappointed.
0:17:12 > 0:17:14I'm going to ask you to have one more look round the property
0:17:14 > 0:17:16and I'll catch up with you in a minute.
0:17:16 > 0:17:17- OK.- OK.
0:17:19 > 0:17:22So this barn conversion is on the market for more than they
0:17:22 > 0:17:26bargained for at £345,000.
0:17:26 > 0:17:29It has a large lounge, separate dining room,
0:17:29 > 0:17:34four bedrooms with master en-suite and a large garden providing plenty
0:17:34 > 0:17:35of scope for development.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38As a master bedroom, this would be even
0:17:38 > 0:17:40better for a guest bedroom.
0:17:40 > 0:17:43And then they've got their own space away from us.
0:17:43 > 0:17:46First impressions were good, lovely large windows
0:17:46 > 0:17:48throwing lots of light in.
0:17:48 > 0:17:53The garden outside was fantastic, overlooking the countryside.
0:17:53 > 0:17:59My first impressions were it wasn't very private frontage,
0:17:59 > 0:18:03the lounge was a bit smaller than I expected,
0:18:03 > 0:18:08but the rest of the rooms were quite good sizes,
0:18:08 > 0:18:11although there's no fitted wardrobes in the bedrooms.
0:18:11 > 0:18:18I can see past some things, but there's a lot of work to do on it
0:18:18 > 0:18:23as far as putting it to the way we would like it.
0:18:23 > 0:18:25OK guys, seen enough?
0:18:25 > 0:18:26- Yes, we have.- Yes, thank you.
0:18:26 > 0:18:29Time to move on, we've more to see.
0:18:29 > 0:18:31Follow me.
0:18:39 > 0:18:41Howard and Carol relish the thought of getting
0:18:41 > 0:18:45back to their Leicestershire roots so they're stepping out to explore
0:18:45 > 0:18:49Market Harborough and there's a trip down memory lane for Howard.
0:18:49 > 0:18:54Oh, look, Carol! 45 years ago, I was an apprentice in The Angel.
0:18:54 > 0:18:55Wonderful!
0:18:55 > 0:18:58The town displays a mix of architecture and one of the
0:18:58 > 0:19:04landmarks is the 17th century timber-framed old grammar school.
0:19:05 > 0:19:07Oh, look at the architecture on that!
0:19:07 > 0:19:10Aah, it's wonderful, isn't it!
0:19:10 > 0:19:15Just a short drive north-west of Market Harborough are Foxton Locks.
0:19:15 > 0:19:18The two staircases of five locks each were completed in 1814
0:19:18 > 0:19:23to enable canal boats to navigate the 70 foot climb uphill.
0:19:23 > 0:19:27For Howard, though, it's time once again to reminisce.
0:19:27 > 0:19:30When I was a teenager, I used to camp over there
0:19:30 > 0:19:33and fish all night long in the water there.
0:19:33 > 0:19:37And no trip to Leicestershire would be complete without tasting
0:19:37 > 0:19:40the local cheese. The county is well-known for producing Stilton and
0:19:40 > 0:19:44Red Leicester, both of which began production in the 18th century.
0:19:44 > 0:19:47- So this is the Quenby Stilton... - All right.
0:19:47 > 0:19:49Which is our most local Stilton.
0:19:49 > 0:19:51How long does it take to produce?
0:19:51 > 0:19:56It's around twelve weeks the whole process and as you can see,
0:19:56 > 0:20:00it's just perfect in terms of it looks like a Stilton, you know.
0:20:00 > 0:20:03Some Stiltons have less veins in.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06Well, if that's whetted Carol and Howard's appetite,
0:20:06 > 0:20:10we'll have to find them a house so this shop would be on the doorstep!
0:20:14 > 0:20:17As the last of the afternoon sun fades away,
0:20:17 > 0:20:20it marks the end of our first day's property search.
0:20:26 > 0:20:30Carol and Howard are searching for their first private home in 25 years.
0:20:30 > 0:20:34Having lived in accommodation attached to business premises,
0:20:34 > 0:20:37they're now looking for a three bedroom house with large rooms,
0:20:37 > 0:20:42an en-suite and hobby rooms, all for £350,000.
0:20:42 > 0:20:45So far, they've viewed one property which didn't have
0:20:45 > 0:20:48the layout they were looking for but, coming up, we get it spot on
0:20:48 > 0:20:50with a room for Howard!
0:20:50 > 0:20:52- Now.- Now you're talking!
0:20:52 > 0:20:54Look at those smiles!
0:20:54 > 0:20:57And there's a mystery house that, true to form,
0:20:57 > 0:20:59offers a twist to the mix.
0:20:59 > 0:21:01Now take a look at this!
0:21:01 > 0:21:02That is different! Gee whiz!
0:21:04 > 0:21:08It's a new day and having reflected on yesterday,
0:21:08 > 0:21:12I'm a little concerned Howard and Carol have fairly high expectations
0:21:12 > 0:21:15for what they're going to get on their modest budget but I'm
0:21:15 > 0:21:18not waving the white flag just yet.
0:21:18 > 0:21:22The next property I'm going to show them has lots of space and rooms but
0:21:22 > 0:21:24it's low maintenance and very, very low upkeep
0:21:24 > 0:21:28because I've realised that is quite a concern for them.
0:21:31 > 0:21:34Carol and Howard, I can't believe this is going to be your
0:21:34 > 0:21:36twelfth move!
0:21:36 > 0:21:40Do you think that makes finding another property easier or harder?
0:21:40 > 0:21:43It makes it a little bit harder, really!
0:21:43 > 0:21:46Why is that? Is it because you're always comparing?
0:21:46 > 0:21:47Yes!
0:21:47 > 0:21:50It's given us the experience to know more of what we want
0:21:50 > 0:21:52and what we don't want, really.
0:21:52 > 0:21:56We've lived over our businesses, now we're looking for purely domestic
0:21:56 > 0:22:00property so we can perhaps be a little bit more choosy
0:22:00 > 0:22:02in what we want.
0:22:04 > 0:22:08Our first house this morning is in Long Clawson.
0:22:08 > 0:22:12At 22 miles north-east of Leicester, it's the furthest away from the city
0:22:12 > 0:22:14of all our properties but the village certainly has much
0:22:14 > 0:22:18to offer by way of amenities, most of which surround the village green.
0:22:18 > 0:22:22The pub is no doubt the hub of the village, so Howard will be
0:22:22 > 0:22:23in his element!
0:22:23 > 0:22:27So here we have it.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29This house was built in 1997,
0:22:29 > 0:22:33so it's a new-build, so what do you think?
0:22:33 > 0:22:34First impressions, good.
0:22:34 > 0:22:35Yes, very good.
0:22:35 > 0:22:37So so far, so good!
0:22:37 > 0:22:38So far, yes!
0:22:38 > 0:22:39Let's see if you like the inside.
0:22:45 > 0:22:47So here's the hallway.
0:22:49 > 0:22:51Oh, this is pleasant, isn't it?
0:22:51 > 0:22:53Very nice, very welcoming I think.
0:22:53 > 0:22:54Yes, not too big, not too...
0:22:54 > 0:22:56And not too small?
0:22:56 > 0:22:57Your windows, Carol!
0:22:57 > 0:22:58And I like the doors!
0:22:58 > 0:23:01Carol has always wanted doors like that with glass panels.
0:23:01 > 0:23:04Have you? Well, we're doing quite well, yes, so far!
0:23:04 > 0:23:06Well, shall I take you through to the reception room,
0:23:06 > 0:23:09through your lovely doors.
0:23:09 > 0:23:13So, here's the sitting room, dual aspect. Does it appeal?
0:23:13 > 0:23:14Yes.
0:23:14 > 0:23:17Could you imagine yourself sitting in here?
0:23:17 > 0:23:19Is this as big as you would like, Carol?
0:23:19 > 0:23:21I'd have liked a little big bigger lounge.
0:23:21 > 0:23:23I mean, the room is fairly big.
0:23:23 > 0:23:27How important is it for you to get your furniture that you've already
0:23:27 > 0:23:31got into your new property, or are you willing to change?
0:23:31 > 0:23:34Well, I've got three big chairs and then a three-seater settee.
0:23:34 > 0:23:36Is that important to you?
0:23:36 > 0:23:37We would have to lose one of them.
0:23:37 > 0:23:39- Yes.- Your chair!
0:23:40 > 0:23:44Your chair! That's nice! He got that in very quickly, I noticed...
0:23:44 > 0:23:48But flexible might work if you had perhaps a sofa there and over there.
0:23:48 > 0:23:51Also I have to point out, look at that beautiful window seat!
0:23:51 > 0:23:53You might not need your other chair, you've got the perfect one.
0:23:53 > 0:23:56Put a cushion on there, you could look out...
0:23:56 > 0:23:58'I think this is a reasonable size.
0:23:58 > 0:24:02'I wonder if we'll ever find a lounge large enough for their furniture!
0:24:02 > 0:24:05'Hopefully the kitchen will get the thumbs up.'
0:24:05 > 0:24:08So this is where all the hard work happens, in the kitchen!
0:24:08 > 0:24:10Yeah, it's a nice size!
0:24:10 > 0:24:13It is. Got walnut tops, beautifully done.
0:24:13 > 0:24:16The kitchen is actually only a year and a half old.
0:24:16 > 0:24:18Again, it's very big.
0:24:18 > 0:24:21Casual dining, so you've got a big table in this kitchen.
0:24:21 > 0:24:23Just take a look through there.
0:24:23 > 0:24:26That is your utility room. You've got your washing machine in
0:24:26 > 0:24:30there, you've got a freezer in there, you've got a microwave,
0:24:30 > 0:24:33and again more storage away from the kitchen.
0:24:33 > 0:24:34Hmm, yes, very nice, yes!
0:24:34 > 0:24:37So it's a good size.
0:24:37 > 0:24:38A really sociable kitchen.
0:24:38 > 0:24:42I can see you with your friends, having drinks here round the table
0:24:42 > 0:24:45and then you could eat in here but the great thing about this house,
0:24:45 > 0:24:48it has another dining area.
0:24:48 > 0:24:50That's what we want!
0:24:52 > 0:24:56And I know a private dining area is important, away from the kitchen.
0:24:56 > 0:25:00It is. Is this going to be big enough, do you think?
0:25:00 > 0:25:02Let me see.
0:25:02 > 0:25:05You've got the cabinet here.
0:25:05 > 0:25:07We're thinking furniture, aren't we?
0:25:07 > 0:25:08- Yes.- We're back to furniture?
0:25:08 > 0:25:09Yeah.
0:25:09 > 0:25:13For the amount of times we do seat ten people, it would be adequate.
0:25:13 > 0:25:15Well, the other thing is hopefully
0:25:15 > 0:25:17when you find your property you'll have a little bit
0:25:17 > 0:25:21of change left over so you might have to buy different furniture.
0:25:21 > 0:25:24I'm going to plant that seed, see where we go with that!
0:25:24 > 0:25:26We've only just bought this one!
0:25:26 > 0:25:27Have you!
0:25:27 > 0:25:29We'll fit it in somehow!
0:25:29 > 0:25:31Take a leg off it!
0:25:31 > 0:25:34Now, here's a room I really want to show you.
0:25:37 > 0:25:39Now you're talking!
0:25:39 > 0:25:43Look at those smiles, look at those smiles!
0:25:43 > 0:25:48Office desk, and all my rubbish can go in there!
0:25:48 > 0:25:51Plenty of storage space, fabulous aspect.
0:25:51 > 0:25:54This is your office?
0:25:54 > 0:25:55- Yes, indeed.- Fabulous!
0:25:55 > 0:25:56Spot on!
0:25:56 > 0:25:58Let's keep going.
0:26:00 > 0:26:01'Upstairs there are four bedrooms
0:26:01 > 0:26:05'and we're going to kick off with the largest.'
0:26:05 > 0:26:07And this is the master bedroom.
0:26:07 > 0:26:13Again, airy, dual-aspect so lots of light coming through, but a good size.
0:26:13 > 0:26:16It will take a huge bed in here
0:26:16 > 0:26:21and the other thing is, through that door is your en-suite.
0:26:21 > 0:26:22Wonderful, that's nice!
0:26:22 > 0:26:25That's a perfect size, isn't it, for an en-suite!
0:26:25 > 0:26:26Good size for you?
0:26:26 > 0:26:28It is, yep.
0:26:28 > 0:26:31Do you like this room, can you imagine it as your master bedroom?
0:26:31 > 0:26:33Yes, I think so, yes.
0:26:34 > 0:26:37I reckon we're not doing badly with this house. Two of the other
0:26:37 > 0:26:42bedrooms are just next door but they might want to do some redecoration.
0:26:42 > 0:26:45The family bathroom is clean and modern
0:26:45 > 0:26:46and then there is the final room.
0:26:46 > 0:26:52None of your guests surely would be disappointed with this room!
0:26:52 > 0:26:53Two windows!
0:26:53 > 0:26:54Two windows and bright.
0:26:54 > 0:26:56- Look at that!- Yes!
0:26:56 > 0:26:59That view just sums it up, doesn't it? Here we are in the country.
0:26:59 > 0:27:02- It's a good room.- It's a lovely room, isn't it?
0:27:02 > 0:27:03Yes, this is a nice room.
0:27:03 > 0:27:06It is a lovely room. Again, really sympathetically done.
0:27:06 > 0:27:08I might be very tempted to move in here myself!
0:27:08 > 0:27:10- So this one gets the thumbs-up? - It does!
0:27:10 > 0:27:11I'm liking this!
0:27:11 > 0:27:16It's going well! I like this, keep exploring, plenty more to see.
0:27:16 > 0:27:21'It's amazing what a difference a day can make. We're heading outside.
0:27:21 > 0:27:25'The big question is, will they both be happy with the garden?'
0:27:25 > 0:27:27So here we are at the back of the house.
0:27:27 > 0:27:31The present owners have got obviously the greenhouse and
0:27:31 > 0:27:34the shed, but the one thing I was thinking of was if you did want
0:27:34 > 0:27:37your garden patch, your vegetable patch,
0:27:37 > 0:27:39you could actually put it here, there's ample space.
0:27:39 > 0:27:42I thought this would be quite a nice little area, have a few...
0:27:42 > 0:27:45- A lovely greenhouse. - Nice greenhouse, few carrots,
0:27:45 > 0:27:48parsnips, but let me take you round to the side of the property --
0:27:48 > 0:27:52obviously this is all your garden, so you've got your rose pagoda.
0:27:52 > 0:27:53- We would love that!- Yes.
0:27:53 > 0:27:55Which will be coming through soon.
0:27:55 > 0:27:56I've always wanted one of those??
0:27:56 > 0:27:59Sunken patio here and the great thing about this garden
0:27:59 > 0:28:03is you've got this open aspect and sunsets at the back of the fields
0:28:03 > 0:28:04so you will get a lot of sun.
0:28:04 > 0:28:06I could create a veg garden down here as well.
0:28:06 > 0:28:08What do you think, Carol?
0:28:08 > 0:28:10- Well...- Vegetables down here?
0:28:10 > 0:28:11Just the right size.
0:28:11 > 0:28:14I don't mind a few vegetables in with the flowers,
0:28:14 > 0:28:15but he's not having it all!
0:28:15 > 0:28:18You could tuck it in the corner and then you wouldn't see it.
0:28:18 > 0:28:21You get cattle grazing in this field occasionally.
0:28:21 > 0:28:23This view is the view, isn't it?
0:28:23 > 0:28:25- That's fantastic! - It is, quite amazing!
0:28:25 > 0:28:28- That's why we want to come to the country, something like that.- Yes.
0:28:28 > 0:28:30Sights like that? Well, let's go down to the patio
0:28:30 > 0:28:33and start talking about money!
0:28:33 > 0:28:36This property has much of what Carol and Howard are looking for.
0:28:36 > 0:28:41I'm quietly confident it could be a contender for their new home.
0:28:42 > 0:28:45So, this is it, money time.
0:28:45 > 0:28:49What do you think a property like this is worth?
0:28:49 > 0:28:53I think it's going to be above our budget. I'd say 420.
0:28:53 > 0:28:55420? Howard?
0:28:55 > 0:28:58I doing think it's going to be as much as that. £380,000.
0:28:58 > 0:29:00£380,000?
0:29:00 > 0:29:04Well, you have a budget of 350, and this house is currently on
0:29:04 > 0:29:09the market for just shy of £340,000.
0:29:09 > 0:29:12- That's surprising!- It is!
0:29:12 > 0:29:13- We are surprised, yes!- Yes.
0:29:13 > 0:29:15We're even more interested now!
0:29:15 > 0:29:19Well, the good news is, you'd have just over £10,000
0:29:19 > 0:29:23to play with. Do you want to go and have another look round?
0:29:23 > 0:29:25I think we will, now we know the price!
0:29:25 > 0:29:29With that price in mind? OK, go and have one final look.
0:29:34 > 0:29:39This house is comfortably within budget at £339,950.
0:29:39 > 0:29:44It has a kitchen-diner, a study that lit Howard's fire, four bedrooms
0:29:44 > 0:29:48with master en-suite and a good size garden they can fight over!
0:29:48 > 0:29:50Well, it's a very nice property.
0:29:50 > 0:29:55Four bedrooms, the bedrooms are quite spacious, the lounge isn't
0:29:55 > 0:30:00quite as spacious as I would like, but beautiful kitchen and the garden
0:30:00 > 0:30:04is just about manageable for what we're looking for.
0:30:04 > 0:30:07I really like where it is in a cul de sac, the location,
0:30:07 > 0:30:10it looks over countryside.
0:30:10 > 0:30:13There's a lot of this property I like.
0:30:13 > 0:30:16What really does stand out to me is two things --
0:30:16 > 0:30:21the kitchen, nice big kitchen with a good sized cooker, and of course the
0:30:21 > 0:30:24office, good-size office. It has its
0:30:24 > 0:30:30own privacy, beautiful views, they really do things to me.
0:30:30 > 0:30:34Also, the garden. Carol and I, we've been debating, it's still up for
0:30:34 > 0:30:38grabs who's having what, and I'm losing that one,
0:30:38 > 0:30:43but it's manageable size, and I quite enjoy the thought of that.
0:30:43 > 0:30:45Happy, guys?
0:30:45 > 0:30:46- Yes!- Yes!
0:30:46 > 0:30:48- Excellent! Let's get on the road. - OK.- Thank you.
0:30:53 > 0:30:57Now it's time for the mystery property and we're taking a big risk
0:30:57 > 0:31:00with it. I'm going to be showing them something that will make them
0:31:00 > 0:31:04think out of their comfort zone and perhaps a complete lifestyle change.
0:31:04 > 0:31:08Now the property I'm going to show them, it isn't dissimilar to this,
0:31:08 > 0:31:11but first I'm going to kick off by taking them to the pub
0:31:11 > 0:31:13to get them in the spirit.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18The mystery house is in Great Bowden, just
0:31:18 > 0:31:20a mile north of Market Harborough.
0:31:20 > 0:31:23It's an attractive setting with an interesting housing stock,
0:31:23 > 0:31:26a village green and a few shops thrown into the mix.
0:31:26 > 0:31:27The local watering holes will
0:31:27 > 0:31:32no doubt get Howard's vote, so what better place to start!
0:31:34 > 0:31:37It's thirsty work looking at all these properties, but Howard, I have
0:31:37 > 0:31:40to say, you look very comfortable sitting there in this pub!
0:31:40 > 0:31:43It's something I enjoy doing most of my life!
0:31:43 > 0:31:46And would you like this sort of pub to be your local?
0:31:46 > 0:31:48- Oh, indeed!- Yes, really nice pub.
0:31:48 > 0:31:49Yes, it's a smashing place.
0:31:49 > 0:31:53Well, the good news is, this could be your local, because just around
0:31:53 > 0:31:55the corner is the mystery property
0:31:55 > 0:31:58I'm dying to show you, so shall we finish our drinks and have a look?
0:31:58 > 0:32:00Indeed!
0:32:00 > 0:32:03Carol and Howard could be in for a bit of a surprise,
0:32:03 > 0:32:06but it is the mystery house, after all!
0:32:06 > 0:32:10So to consider this property, you've got to think complete
0:32:10 > 0:32:15lifestyle change. This is a converted church, it's 19th century,
0:32:15 > 0:32:19which has been taken into three or four luxury apartments, so do you
0:32:19 > 0:32:22mind that and are you prepared to look at it through new eyes?
0:32:22 > 0:32:25Well, I have to say that part of our thinking in downsizing
0:32:25 > 0:32:30for our old age would have been an apartment so we've still got that
0:32:30 > 0:32:31as a possibility.
0:32:31 > 0:32:35I assure you, it is an outstanding apartment! Are you ready to go in?
0:32:35 > 0:32:38- Let's give it a go!- Yes, OK.
0:32:38 > 0:32:40'Although it's called an "apartment", this property is
0:32:40 > 0:32:45in fact on two floors and unusually, the living area is upstairs.
0:32:47 > 0:32:48Now take a look at this!
0:32:48 > 0:32:50That is different! Gee whiz!
0:32:50 > 0:32:53Do you expect to see this at the top of the stairs?
0:32:53 > 0:32:54No.
0:32:54 > 0:32:56But that's got a wow factor!
0:32:56 > 0:32:59It really has, it takes your breath away!
0:32:59 > 0:33:00Yep!
0:33:00 > 0:33:02And of course, open plan living!
0:33:02 > 0:33:03What do you think, Carol?
0:33:03 > 0:33:06I'm not too keen on open plan living.
0:33:06 > 0:33:10I don't mind open plan dining, but
0:33:10 > 0:33:13lounge-wise, I like a lounge on its own!
0:33:13 > 0:33:17I think this is fantastic, the actual layout, the quality...
0:33:17 > 0:33:18Let's have a look at the kitchen.
0:33:18 > 0:33:20Carol, you will appreciate this!
0:33:20 > 0:33:23Ready? Push it in...
0:33:23 > 0:33:25Look at that. Effortless!
0:33:25 > 0:33:29So you've got tons of storage space in this kitchen.
0:33:29 > 0:33:31Now, walk through.
0:33:31 > 0:33:34Howard, just open that door for me.
0:33:34 > 0:33:35- Big freezer.- It is!
0:33:35 > 0:33:37Splendid!
0:33:37 > 0:33:39Isn't that fantastic! And if you like a big fridge...
0:33:39 > 0:33:41Oh, you could get plenty of beer. And wine!
0:33:41 > 0:33:43You've got some wine in there.
0:33:43 > 0:33:44All ready for you, ready to go!
0:33:44 > 0:33:45Wonderful!
0:33:45 > 0:33:49Now I know entertaining is a big part of your lives, so how is this
0:33:49 > 0:33:51for your dining area?
0:33:51 > 0:33:55Lots of light and another feature, can you just see there's a little
0:33:55 > 0:33:57- bit of light coming through.- Yes.
0:33:57 > 0:34:00Because the way it's been converted they've used those windows,
0:34:00 > 0:34:02so it does give you a really airy feel.
0:34:02 > 0:34:03Splendid!
0:34:03 > 0:34:05- Perfect for a dinner party?- It is.
0:34:05 > 0:34:09Nice deep sink there for washing up and a halogen hob.
0:34:09 > 0:34:15Now it is electric and I know you prefer gas, but just watch this.
0:34:15 > 0:34:19It heats up so quickly, literally. Look at that, seconds.
0:34:19 > 0:34:21Gee, I've never seen anything as fast as that!
0:34:21 > 0:34:25And the heat, already. It certainly is an impressive kitchen with loads
0:34:25 > 0:34:30of storage space but this, this is what makes this apartment.
0:34:30 > 0:34:32It's fantastic. Framed by that wooden beam,
0:34:32 > 0:34:36that window is tremendous and I think it's south-facing so you're going to
0:34:36 > 0:34:39get all the sun highlighting that, that's fantastic!
0:34:39 > 0:34:43Do you like the idea of something like that being in your apartment?
0:34:43 > 0:34:46I do, in fact the whole feature of it, it's good to see that
0:34:46 > 0:34:48some of the old architecture is kept
0:34:48 > 0:34:51in villages like this instead of having the concrete front.
0:34:51 > 0:34:54Little did I think when we used to own and live in a pub
0:34:54 > 0:34:57that I would eventually end up in this church!
0:34:57 > 0:35:01Yeah. This is a church you are allowed to drink in.
0:35:01 > 0:35:03Let's keep exploring.
0:35:03 > 0:35:06'It's certainly an impressive property with no space wasted.
0:35:06 > 0:35:11'Up the spiral staircase is a mezzanine level overlooking the lounge.'
0:35:11 > 0:35:13And up here is, well I'm going
0:35:13 > 0:35:16to call it the reception room, the second reception room, but you could
0:35:16 > 0:35:21use it for a variety of reasons. What would you use it for?
0:35:21 > 0:35:23I'd have an orchestra in here/
0:35:23 > 0:35:25The Minstrel gallery!
0:35:25 > 0:35:29You've got the original beams, plenty of light,
0:35:29 > 0:35:32but would this work for you two?
0:35:32 > 0:35:36What I have thought is that coming here we would certainly
0:35:36 > 0:35:40have to change our lifestyle and we'd have to think about the furniture.
0:35:40 > 0:35:43We've not got... we've got too much furniture, I think,
0:35:43 > 0:35:45so that's got to be a real thinking.
0:35:45 > 0:35:47I don't think it would work for me.
0:35:47 > 0:35:50In my opinion, it's more like a bachelor pad.
0:35:50 > 0:35:53It can be arranged!
0:35:53 > 0:35:56Well, on that note, I think we'd better go and look at the bedrooms.
0:35:56 > 0:35:59Howard, we'll follow you.
0:35:59 > 0:36:02'This property sitting at the heart of an idyllic village,
0:36:02 > 0:36:06'has just been renovated to a high standard leaving no work to be done.
0:36:06 > 0:36:08'Carol and Howard would have plenty of time to
0:36:08 > 0:36:12'enjoy retirement and indulge in their hobbies from day one.'
0:36:12 > 0:36:15So we're back on the ground floor
0:36:15 > 0:36:18and this is the master bedroom,
0:36:18 > 0:36:22so you've got this beautiful three windows, bags of space.
0:36:22 > 0:36:24What do you think?
0:36:24 > 0:36:26Yes, I like this room.
0:36:26 > 0:36:28It's more light and airy and I like that.
0:36:28 > 0:36:31It's brighter, it's airier, more light coming in.
0:36:31 > 0:36:36There's an en-suite, and this is an en-suite. Take a look.
0:36:36 > 0:36:39Oh, that's nice.
0:36:39 > 0:36:40This is wonderful.
0:36:40 > 0:36:43Big showerhead! His and hers' sinks!
0:36:43 > 0:36:46- It's almost a wet room, isn't it? - Yes.
0:36:46 > 0:36:50This bathroom screams real luxury to me, real high-spec.
0:36:50 > 0:36:55And the family bathroom in this property is no exception.
0:36:55 > 0:36:58The second and final bedroom is just next door. There's a handy
0:36:58 > 0:37:02dressing area and the room can easily take a double bed.
0:37:02 > 0:37:05In addition, there's access to the outdoor space.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11Here we have a small private courtyard, so perfect for
0:37:11 > 0:37:14all your pots and planters, so would this work for you?
0:37:14 > 0:37:19Well, it's south-facing and would certainly get the sun here
0:37:19 > 0:37:24so it would be a nice little spot to sit out in the warm sunny days, yeah.
0:37:24 > 0:37:26Also this property comes with a communal garage,
0:37:26 > 0:37:29parking for one car, so you can park in front of
0:37:29 > 0:37:33the property but you can also have off-street parking there as well.
0:37:33 > 0:37:36Now, it is the most stunning apartment. I'm going to ask you
0:37:36 > 0:37:42to just think about the price, 19th century conversion, huge rooms.
0:37:42 > 0:37:45How much do you think this property is on the market for?
0:37:45 > 0:37:49My guess is £280,000.
0:37:49 > 0:37:55OK. What about you, Carol, bearing in mind everything you've seen?
0:37:55 > 0:37:57Well, no garden.
0:37:57 > 0:37:59290.
0:37:59 > 0:38:02290? Well, actually I think this is going to surprise you,
0:38:02 > 0:38:07because this property is on the market for £345,000.
0:38:07 > 0:38:11Aah! I think I would like a little bit more for my money.
0:38:11 > 0:38:14But why don't you go and have one last look at that beautiful
0:38:14 > 0:38:17stained glass window and I'll catch up with you in a minute.
0:38:17 > 0:38:19OK.
0:38:19 > 0:38:25This immaculate apartment is £5,000 under budget at £345,000,
0:38:25 > 0:38:29there's a bright open-plan kitchen-living area,
0:38:29 > 0:38:33a useful mezzanine level, two bedrooms with luxury master en-suite
0:38:33 > 0:38:36and an outdoor decked area.
0:38:36 > 0:38:39The central village location is exactly what they wanted and
0:38:39 > 0:38:42hopefully the property has got them thinking.
0:38:42 > 0:38:46What I like about the place, it's very well-done,
0:38:46 > 0:38:49very well-constructed, very well-designed.
0:38:49 > 0:38:52It's got high lights again and high ceilings.
0:38:52 > 0:38:55It would be a devil of a job getting you up a ladder for that one.
0:38:55 > 0:38:57You wouldn't get me up there!
0:38:57 > 0:39:02Very intriguing, I'm fascinated by it, the quality.
0:39:02 > 0:39:06The only wow factor when we came upstairs and we saw
0:39:06 > 0:39:08that beam in the windows, tremendous.
0:39:08 > 0:39:13We did think about apartments and this is now, now we're in one, it's
0:39:13 > 0:39:18making me rethink that we've got to go back to the idea of a three, four
0:39:18 > 0:39:21bedroom house with the elbow room.
0:39:21 > 0:39:23We haven't quite got the space here.
0:39:23 > 0:39:27It wasn't what I was expecting and
0:39:27 > 0:39:31I don't think I'd like to finish my days in a church just yet!
0:39:31 > 0:39:33Well, that was the last
0:39:33 > 0:39:36property and now you two have got a lot of thinking to do.
0:39:36 > 0:39:38Yes!
0:39:44 > 0:39:48Carol and Howard's property tour is now over.
0:39:48 > 0:39:51They viewed a real mixture of housing styles and it's
0:39:51 > 0:39:52time to consider the options.
0:39:55 > 0:39:59The moment has come for Carol and Howard to make some decisions
0:39:59 > 0:40:03but I'm not sure any of the properties have hit the spot.
0:40:03 > 0:40:07One thing I do know is they won't be choosing the mystery property
0:40:07 > 0:40:11but they are a flexible couple so I'm not counting my chickens yet!
0:40:11 > 0:40:14We might be in for a surprise.
0:40:17 > 0:40:21So, Carol and Howard, it's been an interesting journey
0:40:21 > 0:40:26and we started off in Fleckney with that 19th century barn conversion.
0:40:26 > 0:40:28Were you won over by it?
0:40:28 > 0:40:30There was a lot going for it --
0:40:30 > 0:40:35the long windows which we really want because that's good for light,
0:40:35 > 0:40:37airy feeling.
0:40:37 > 0:40:39The master bedroom,
0:40:39 > 0:40:41if we were to have it, we would have that as the guest bedroom and
0:40:41 > 0:40:47we would add and convert one of the far end bedrooms and probably enlarge
0:40:47 > 0:40:51that, but that would then depend on how much we would get it for.
0:40:51 > 0:40:52And then we went
0:40:52 > 0:40:56to Long Clawson to the modern build, and what did you think of that one?
0:40:56 > 0:40:59That wasn't far off.
0:40:59 > 0:41:02The garden was just about the right size.
0:41:02 > 0:41:06What did it for me was the office area and an absolutely superb view
0:41:06 > 0:41:09out of there, so that house, from that point of view, did it well
0:41:09 > 0:41:13for me. The only other thought I have is the wooden windows.
0:41:13 > 0:41:15There was going to be a lot of effort
0:41:15 > 0:41:20needing to paint all those as opposed to UPVC windows.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23You're a very practical couple, actually,
0:41:23 > 0:41:25always got that eye on that very practical side.
0:41:25 > 0:41:26How far the pub is away!
0:41:26 > 0:41:30Yes, well I didn't like to bring that up, but I do remember the pub
0:41:30 > 0:41:32was mentioned in many a conversation
0:41:32 > 0:41:37which obviously has to lead me to the mystery property because we
0:41:37 > 0:41:42started off, just to try and soften you a little bit, in the pub which
0:41:42 > 0:41:45could potentially be your local. That went down very well.
0:41:45 > 0:41:50Yeah, and I think we have to say that in our retirement
0:41:50 > 0:41:55as we get older, we have looked and considered taking on an apartment
0:41:55 > 0:42:00and when we got there, it certainly had the wow factor, didn't it, Carol?
0:42:00 > 0:42:02Yes.
0:42:02 > 0:42:04I like the delay!
0:42:04 > 0:42:07That was a good delay, that was perfect timing!
0:42:07 > 0:42:08Gets me out of the hook!
0:42:08 > 0:42:10I think we had the wow factor with that.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12I think, Carol, you had your reservations?
0:42:12 > 0:42:16Yes, I did, yes. It is a bachelor place or single person place.
0:42:16 > 0:42:18- It wasn't right for you?- No.
0:42:18 > 0:42:22But out of everything we've seen, have you made any final decisions?
0:42:22 > 0:42:24The one at Long Clawson got very close.
0:42:24 > 0:42:25The new-build, yes.
0:42:25 > 0:42:29But I think we've got to turn that down because it was just a bit too
0:42:29 > 0:42:31far from a major town.
0:42:31 > 0:42:35As far as I'm concerned, but I'm not sure about Carol,
0:42:35 > 0:42:38the jury is still out with the barn conversion at Fleckney.
0:42:38 > 0:42:40Now that's interesting!
0:42:40 > 0:42:43What is it about that property you think has the potential
0:42:43 > 0:42:44to suit your needs?
0:42:44 > 0:42:49If we got it at the right price, it would leave us with sufficient funds
0:42:49 > 0:42:51to put the extra bits in that would really
0:42:51 > 0:42:53bring it, and tick all the boxes.
0:42:54 > 0:42:56Well, thank you so much. We really have
0:42:56 > 0:42:59enjoyed it and we hope you continue to enjoy your retirement and you do
0:42:59 > 0:43:03make that move to Leicestershire. You will let us know, won't you?
0:43:03 > 0:43:04- We will indeed!- We will.
0:43:04 > 0:43:06And can we say thank you very much, too.
0:43:06 > 0:43:10It's been an experience which we would never have done without!
0:43:10 > 0:43:11Thank you.
0:43:14 > 0:43:17Unfortunately that's all we've got time for today, but join us
0:43:17 > 0:43:19again when we help another couple
0:43:19 > 0:43:22find their Escape To The Country.
0:43:22 > 0:43:24If you'd like to Escape To The Country
0:43:24 > 0:43:32and would like our help, please contact us through our website.
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