0:00:02 > 0:00:06Mathematically speaking, this wonderfully eccentric building behind me is a hexadecagon.
0:00:06 > 0:00:11Find out how many sides it has and where I am in just a moment on Escape To The Country.
0:00:23 > 0:00:27Today we're helping a couple find their dream coastal home.
0:00:27 > 0:00:31- That's something I've always wanted, balcony.- Really?- Yes.
0:00:31 > 0:00:36We'll be tempting them with some choice seaside properties, but will they be united in their vision?
0:00:36 > 0:00:39One of my dreams has been to live right on the beach.
0:00:39 > 0:00:41Yes, that's right.
0:00:41 > 0:00:44- Could it be one of your dreams too? - Probably not.
0:00:44 > 0:00:50So, could this be the house search that has me calling out an SOS?
0:00:50 > 0:00:52I've been feeling quite stressed with this job, to be honest.
0:00:52 > 0:00:55- Just relax.- Difficult clients.
0:00:55 > 0:00:57- Picky. They don't know what they want.- What, this week?
0:00:57 > 0:00:59Yeah. Sometimes...
0:01:03 > 0:01:07I'm in Devon, just outside the seaside town of Exmouth.
0:01:07 > 0:01:10This 16-sided building is called A La Ronde.
0:01:10 > 0:01:16It was built at the end of the 18th century by two spinster cousins, Mary and Jane Parmenter,
0:01:16 > 0:01:20partly to house all the lovely treasures they brought back from their European grand tour,
0:01:20 > 0:01:27but also, by cleverly placing windows 360 degrees, to harvest all this beautiful Devon sunshine.
0:01:27 > 0:01:33Situated in south-west England, Devon is one of the UK's most popular tourist destinations.
0:01:33 > 0:01:35Over 5.4 million visitors head here each year compared
0:01:35 > 0:01:40with 4.5 million to neighbouring Cornwall and 3.5 to Dorset.
0:01:42 > 0:01:46And there's plenty to keep it at the top of the popularity stakes.
0:01:46 > 0:01:52Nature lovers can lose themselves in the wild landscapes of two national parks, Exmoor and Dartmoor.
0:01:52 > 0:01:55For sun worshippers, sea dogs and watersports enthusiasts,
0:01:55 > 0:02:01there are 200 miles of spectacular coastline to enjoy. And when you consider nearly every coastal resort
0:02:01 > 0:02:06has a harbour or marina, it's understandably a mecca for yachties.
0:02:08 > 0:02:15Away from the surf, Devon's green and undulating landscape is peace and tranquillity personified,
0:02:15 > 0:02:19with countless chocolate-box villages brimming with thatched cottages.
0:02:19 > 0:02:23This county inspired 19th-century philanthropist and poet Sir Harold Bolton to write,
0:02:23 > 0:02:28"Old England's counties by the sea from east to west are seven
0:02:28 > 0:02:33"But the gem in that fair galaxy, 'tis Devon, glorious Devon."
0:02:36 > 0:02:39According to statistics, Devon gets 7½ hours
0:02:39 > 0:02:45of sunshine every summer's day, but clearly not on this summer's day!
0:02:45 > 0:02:50But that figure might be the reason why property prices here are 18% above the national average.
0:02:50 > 0:02:53Still, there are some real beauties on offer.
0:02:53 > 0:02:56Take a look.
0:02:56 > 0:03:03If you have £895,000 to spend, you could be galloping off with this equestrian property near Totnes.
0:03:03 > 0:03:05With five bedrooms, three reception rooms,
0:03:05 > 0:03:11three bathrooms and a swimming pool, you get a lot for your money.
0:03:11 > 0:03:14And there's no scrimping on the land either, 29 acres in all.
0:03:16 > 0:03:20At the slightly more modest price of 600,000, how about this four-bedroom
0:03:20 > 0:03:22former bungalow in the village of Woodside?
0:03:22 > 0:03:25The space has been recently remodelled
0:03:25 > 0:03:30and refurbished throughout and it now exudes understated elegance.
0:03:30 > 0:03:33However, if it's a character property you're after, look no further than
0:03:33 > 0:03:38this four-bedroom traditional Devon longhouse on the edge of Dartmoor.
0:03:38 > 0:03:42£495,000 will purchase three reception rooms,
0:03:42 > 0:03:45a cosy country kitchen, a spacious garden with outdoor pool.
0:03:45 > 0:03:47So why not take the plunge?
0:03:49 > 0:03:54The clotted cream from the top of Devon's property market there,
0:03:54 > 0:03:59but will it be enough to tempt today's buyers? Let's meet the Brockenshaws.
0:03:59 > 0:04:02Married for 18 years, keen marathon runners Michael and Shirley are
0:04:02 > 0:04:07hoping to make a quick dash from their home in Bristol for a brand new outlook.
0:04:07 > 0:04:12We want to move to the country because we want to be nearer the coast.
0:04:12 > 0:04:19I have a great love of sailing, but as well as that, I think the slower pace of life is
0:04:19 > 0:04:23what we're looking for as we sort of wind down into retirement.
0:04:23 > 0:04:24Although Michael and Shirley won't be giving up their jobs
0:04:24 > 0:04:30as a freelance engineer and a life coach straight away, they have good reason to take things easy.
0:04:30 > 0:04:37Mike had a heart attack a couple of years ago and that made us think seriously about, let's slow down.
0:04:37 > 0:04:42So having decided to apply the brakes on their busy lifestyle, have they agreed on a new location?
0:04:42 > 0:04:46We'd like to move to South Devon.
0:04:46 > 0:04:50We had a look all over Devon and we liked that area.
0:04:50 > 0:04:52We didn't want anywhere too remote.
0:04:52 > 0:04:56Perhaps a nice community. And that seems to fit the bill.
0:04:56 > 0:05:00However, having spent nearly 10 years renovating and decorating
0:05:00 > 0:05:05their five-bedroom home, leaving it behind isn't going to be easy.
0:05:05 > 0:05:09If you could arrange to pick this house up and actually take it down to Devon,
0:05:09 > 0:05:13somewhere near the coast, with the neighbours, we'd be very happy.
0:05:13 > 0:05:17Sadly, we can't quite manage that, so what kind of property will make the grade?
0:05:17 > 0:05:22We'd definitely like something that's finished. Yes.
0:05:22 > 0:05:24Three, four bedrooms preferably.
0:05:24 > 0:05:29With a couple of en suites for guests.
0:05:29 > 0:05:34And with two grandchildren and another on the way in a few months,
0:05:34 > 0:05:36family visitors will be plentiful.
0:05:36 > 0:05:38I quite like Victorian houses.
0:05:38 > 0:05:43Yes, but at the same time I think neither of us would object to modern.
0:05:43 > 0:05:47If it's the right house in the right place, then that's no problem.
0:05:47 > 0:05:49No, no, we're very flexible.
0:05:49 > 0:05:51Flexible is good.
0:05:51 > 0:05:55But finding the dream home usually comes down to details.
0:05:55 > 0:05:59This is my favourite room in the house, kitchen diner.
0:05:59 > 0:06:01It's a real family room. We all congregate in here.
0:06:01 > 0:06:03And I also love the granite.
0:06:03 > 0:06:09Absolutely love that. If there's something similar when we move, that would be absolutely superb.
0:06:09 > 0:06:12And it's not just the kitchen sink they want to take with them.
0:06:12 > 0:06:17The sort of garden that we're looking for when we move is something which, like this one, is low-maintenance.
0:06:17 > 0:06:20Because we're not really gardeners at all.
0:06:20 > 0:06:25It would be lovely to sit in the garden without all this traffic noise that we've got here.
0:06:25 > 0:06:27And the wish list doesn't end there.
0:06:27 > 0:06:31I would like a separate room for counselling,
0:06:31 > 0:06:35because at the moment people come in here for counselling and it's difficult with all the family.
0:06:35 > 0:06:39Basically, I've lived without a garage for more than 10 years now
0:06:39 > 0:06:44and it's one thing which always drops off the bottom of a compromise list.
0:06:44 > 0:06:46So this time I'm going to have one.
0:06:46 > 0:06:49I fancy a conservatory as well. Always wanted one of those.
0:06:49 > 0:06:51But that would be a plus.
0:06:51 > 0:06:55In preparation to move fast, Mike and Shirley have already put their
0:06:55 > 0:07:01house on the market at £465,000, but what's their spend for South Devon?
0:07:01 > 0:07:05Our budget for this move is up to £500,000.
0:07:08 > 0:07:13Mike and Shirley have given me a pretty open brief about what they want down in Devon.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16Clearly they're not really retiring. They're far too active for that.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19Apart from three bedrooms, I haven't got a lot to go on.
0:07:19 > 0:07:23Still, I'd better get my running shoes on if I'm going to keep up with their needs.
0:07:27 > 0:07:32As Michael and Shirley want easy access to the sea, we'll be casting our property search net across the
0:07:32 > 0:07:38entire south coast, from Exmouth and its surrounds all the way down to the countryside around Dartmouth.
0:07:38 > 0:07:43In today's show, we've lined up three choice coastal homes to view but as always I won't reveal
0:07:43 > 0:07:46the price tags until the end of the tours.
0:07:46 > 0:07:48The last of these three is a mystery house,
0:07:48 > 0:07:53but will any of our properties have our would-be buyers dropping anchor?
0:07:54 > 0:07:56Welcome to Devon.
0:07:56 > 0:07:59- Hello.- Not quite sunny Devon, but we live in hope.
0:07:59 > 0:08:05- You lived here before, right? - I lived in Exeter for a while, in my twenties.- A long time ago.
0:08:05 > 0:08:08- And you've never left Bristol.- No, this is a big adventure for me.
0:08:08 > 0:08:11- A big adventure. Are you going to be all right?- Yes.
0:08:11 > 0:08:14What's the ground for the big move?
0:08:14 > 0:08:17We want a quieter pace of life, really.
0:08:17 > 0:08:20We want to be able to develop our hobbies.
0:08:20 > 0:08:22But otherwise you've got quite an open brief.
0:08:22 > 0:08:24Yes, we're very flexible, aren't we?
0:08:24 > 0:08:28Which makes it much more difficult for me. It's much easier if you say exactly what you want.
0:08:28 > 0:08:31- Quite right too. - I like the fact that you're challenging me. Let's go.
0:08:33 > 0:08:35For their £500,000, Michael and Shirley are clear,
0:08:35 > 0:08:39however, they want a detached, three-bedroom, light and airy house.
0:08:39 > 0:08:41Must-haves include a big kitchen diner.
0:08:41 > 0:08:45Shirley needs a separate room or annexe for the counselling sessions,
0:08:45 > 0:08:48whilst Michael has his heart set on a garage.
0:08:48 > 0:08:52And as neither are green-fingered, a low-maintenance garden is a priority.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59Although the brief is fairly open, we are house-hunting in a very pricey part of the country.
0:08:59 > 0:09:04And the closer we get to the coast, the more expensive the properties.
0:09:04 > 0:09:07So we could still have a challenge on our hands to meet all the criteria.
0:09:11 > 0:09:14One of the reasons you're coming down here is to sail, for you, Michael.
0:09:14 > 0:09:18Is that really a huge passion of yours, or something that you've...?
0:09:18 > 0:09:25Yes, it is. At the moment I've got to basically travel two hours to get any sailing in.
0:09:25 > 0:09:27So what I'm really looking for is something where I can just
0:09:27 > 0:09:30pop out the front door after breakfast, disappear for the day.
0:09:30 > 0:09:36Even if it's only just going and sitting on a boat, you know, it's so relaxing.
0:09:36 > 0:09:39Sounds like you're pretty busy yourself, Shirley, so you won't mind him being out.
0:09:39 > 0:09:42I won't mind at all, no. It'll be quite relaxing for me too.
0:09:42 > 0:09:49Our first destination should be the ideal setting for some nautical R&R,
0:09:49 > 0:09:53as we're heading to the popular coastal town of Brixham.
0:09:53 > 0:09:56Although even on a dreary day, Brixham looks like your typically
0:09:56 > 0:10:02pretty colour-washed south-coast resort, it's actually one of the busiest fishing ports in the UK
0:10:02 > 0:10:06with a staggering £80 million of fish traded annually.
0:10:06 > 0:10:11So unlike many tourist hot spots, Brixham's streets aren't deserted come low season.
0:10:11 > 0:10:15Instead, there's a thriving community all year round and Michael
0:10:15 > 0:10:20should be glad to hear that a recent regeneration scheme has afforded the village with a new marina.
0:10:22 > 0:10:25Our first property is a couple of minutes out of Brixham.
0:10:25 > 0:10:33It's a modernised 1930s bungalow and enjoys an enviable elevated position above the coast.
0:10:33 > 0:10:35- This is the one.- Oh!
0:10:35 > 0:10:39So this property has been extended three times. It was extended up,
0:10:39 > 0:10:44- and then across, and then the present owners have extended again. - Very smart, it looks well kept.
0:10:44 > 0:10:49- I've already spotted the fact that it looks like a very nice double garage down there.- Yes.
0:10:49 > 0:10:52In many ways it was exactly what you're looking for but
0:10:52 > 0:10:56I'd be interested to get your impressions as we go inside.
0:10:56 > 0:10:59I know they've spent years decorating their Bristol home
0:10:59 > 0:11:03to quite a contemporary spec and they may want to make a few cosmetic changes here.
0:11:03 > 0:11:08However, it's a blank canvas and size-wise should be spot on.
0:11:08 > 0:11:11In we go, into the sitting room.
0:11:11 > 0:11:13Yes, clean and bright.
0:11:13 > 0:11:18- Lovely big window.- Everything about this house is really about sitting in it looking out.
0:11:18 > 0:11:24- Amazing views down the coast to the sea.- Looking good so far.
0:11:24 > 0:11:29A good start, but I know the kitchen could be a deal breaker in this property search,
0:11:29 > 0:11:32so Shirley's reaction to this one will be a useful yardstick.
0:11:35 > 0:11:39- Is it what you're looking for? - It's a good size. Room for sitting, I like that.
0:11:39 > 0:11:42- Nice views.- Nice stove. I don't know how you'd get on with that.
0:11:42 > 0:11:46Range. What do you usually cook on?
0:11:46 > 0:11:49- Well...- Fairly conventional.
0:11:49 > 0:11:51I burn things whatever I cook on.
0:11:51 > 0:11:54Well, you can burn things in style here.
0:11:55 > 0:12:00In our house, the kitchen is the hub of the house.
0:12:00 > 0:12:07One thing that I'm thinking is that if we had the whole family here, we could find it a little bit cramped.
0:12:07 > 0:12:13It's not a kitchen diner in the sense that there's not space to sprawl. It's more a breakfast area.
0:12:13 > 0:12:16- Yes.- OK.- Very smart. - So this gets a tick.- Very smart.
0:12:16 > 0:12:22Let's look at the rest. Before that, I wanted to show you...
0:12:22 > 0:12:25You were worried about family spreading out.
0:12:25 > 0:12:29You've got a sort of dining sitting room, an extra one here.
0:12:29 > 0:12:32I like this, yes. Very cosy.
0:12:32 > 0:12:36Because this could actually be like an office, couldn't it?
0:12:36 > 0:12:38Or just
0:12:38 > 0:12:39chilling out.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42There are other options for your office.
0:12:42 > 0:12:45This, I suggest, would be your R&R room.
0:12:45 > 0:12:49Over here, you've got this sort of dining room.
0:12:49 > 0:12:50They've got it as a dining room. You could do what you liked.
0:12:50 > 0:12:53And it's also light,
0:12:53 > 0:12:55- that's what I like about it. - Well, that's what you asked for.
0:12:55 > 0:12:59- Yes.- You ask for it... - So you get it, yes.
0:12:59 > 0:13:03And then, on top of that, two more rooms.
0:13:03 > 0:13:05At the end of the corridor is an office which I'm hoping will be
0:13:05 > 0:13:11the perfect solution for Shirley to give more counselling sessions.
0:13:11 > 0:13:13Ta-dum!
0:13:13 > 0:13:16- Oh, ideal. Perfect. - You were mentioning an office.
0:13:16 > 0:13:21- Yes, I could shut the door and be enclosed.- Would this be good enough for your counselling?
0:13:21 > 0:13:24It's just the right size in fact.
0:13:24 > 0:13:27Well, I'm glad this room is up to snuff.
0:13:27 > 0:13:30Because, just in case you were feeling left out, Michael, there is another one.
0:13:33 > 0:13:38We're spoiling you in this house because there's another big, big room.
0:13:38 > 0:13:40Loads of storage by the looks of it, too.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43Yes, massive deep cupboards, and a shower room.
0:13:43 > 0:13:47This is effectively like a guest wing. You start to see the sea.
0:13:47 > 0:13:49- Can you see?- Yes, I can see the sea.
0:13:49 > 0:13:54The hazy blue. That is the sea. Would you keep this as a bedroom?
0:13:54 > 0:13:56It depends how many bedrooms are upstairs.
0:13:56 > 0:13:58- Three.- Three?
0:13:58 > 0:14:03In that case this would make a perfect guest suite, wouldn't it? I think we'd keep it as that.
0:14:03 > 0:14:09That way you can have maybe all the kiddies running around upstairs and have the serious guests...
0:14:09 > 0:14:12Auntie down here. She'd like that.
0:14:12 > 0:14:16Well, that's one relative sorted and there are a couple more guest
0:14:16 > 0:14:18bedrooms upstairs which share the family bathroom.
0:14:18 > 0:14:23But the piece de resistance of this property is the master bedroom.
0:14:23 > 0:14:26Oh, just look at this.
0:14:26 > 0:14:28This is magnificent. Oh, this
0:14:28 > 0:14:32is jolly good. Fantastic.
0:14:32 > 0:14:34- Totally unexpected. - Have you seen that, a balcony?
0:14:34 > 0:14:38- Something I've always wanted, a balcony.- Really?- Yes.
0:14:38 > 0:14:42- What's nice is you've got a walk-in wardrobe there, so you can put your running clothes in there.- Sweet.
0:14:42 > 0:14:47- And a very nice en suite. - It's done very well.- And then this wonderful decking area.
0:14:47 > 0:14:51For me, this is what makes this whole property.
0:14:51 > 0:14:54- The views.- Absolutely superb.
0:14:54 > 0:14:56Wonderful views.
0:14:56 > 0:15:00In terms of sailing clubs for you, you've got Brixham, which you can see there.
0:15:00 > 0:15:05Also Kingswear and Dartmouth all very close, about a five minute drive.
0:15:05 > 0:15:10- Wonderful.- From up here you can see the extent of your garden, but let's go into it.
0:15:10 > 0:15:16Now, I know Shirley and Michael have confessed to being horticulturally challenged, but I don't think this
0:15:16 > 0:15:19garden will pose too many problems for them, and I'm sure the grandkids would love it.
0:15:19 > 0:15:24The whole plot is about half an acre.
0:15:24 > 0:15:28It's different portions of garden. You've got this raised bit here, a little water feature over there.
0:15:28 > 0:15:32There's another plot of land just beyond the drive.
0:15:32 > 0:15:34And a nice patio area here.
0:15:34 > 0:15:36So lots of kind of different bits.
0:15:36 > 0:15:39How much time do you spend in the garden?
0:15:39 > 0:15:41I think if it was a garden like this, more time.
0:15:41 > 0:15:45This is beautifully done. I can just see myself with a garden like this.
0:15:45 > 0:15:49Although we're not very good at gardening, something that's already
0:15:49 > 0:15:53so lovely as this, we could continue and keep it this way.
0:15:53 > 0:15:55Looking around, it seems to be shrubs rather than flowers.
0:15:55 > 0:15:59This is the first property we've seen down here.
0:15:59 > 0:16:05It is the Riviera, as they call it, so it'll be interesting to see what you think it's worth.
0:16:05 > 0:16:09I would value this house at 495.
0:16:09 > 0:16:12That's exactly the figure I was going to put on it.
0:16:12 > 0:16:14I have to be different, don't I?
0:16:14 > 0:16:17- So I'm going to say 490.- 490.
0:16:17 > 0:16:20Well, there you go. If you'd gone a shade
0:16:20 > 0:16:22above you would have been right.
0:16:22 > 0:16:24It's on at 499.
0:16:24 > 0:16:25Oh, quite close.
0:16:25 > 0:16:30So why don't you've a wander around? I know it's difficult with me breathing down your neck to make
0:16:30 > 0:16:35any kind of judgments, but have a wander around on your own and then we can press on.
0:16:35 > 0:16:36Yes, OK.
0:16:39 > 0:16:42See, I'm not entirely sure they're being honest.
0:16:42 > 0:16:46Because I think that's too many lovelies and wonderfuls.
0:16:46 > 0:16:50For me, I like a bit of, "Well, I'm not so sure about this."
0:16:50 > 0:16:56I need to maybe tease out what they don't like as well as what they do like and then we can proceed nicely.
0:16:56 > 0:17:02At just a snip under £500,000, this property is bang on budget, and there's a lot of it.
0:17:02 > 0:17:08Three reception rooms, a large galley kitchen, an office for Shirley's therapy sessions,
0:17:08 > 0:17:12a double garage for Michael, four big bedrooms and it's all set in
0:17:12 > 0:17:14the low-maintenance half-acre plot.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17With three marinas all within a ten-minute drive it should
0:17:17 > 0:17:25be the perfect location for skipper Michael, so could they be sailing away with our very first offering?
0:17:25 > 0:17:27Oh, look at this, Mike.
0:17:27 > 0:17:29My domain, keep out.
0:17:29 > 0:17:33When I saw the house I was very impressed. It's clean and tidy.
0:17:33 > 0:17:36It's perfect, you could move straight in, just what we wanted.
0:17:36 > 0:17:42The only thing I'm a little bit concerned about is not its immediate location
0:17:42 > 0:17:47but it's the surrounding, whether we could get to shops without having to drive.
0:17:47 > 0:17:54Because that's always something that I enjoy doing Sunday mornings, the walk to get the papers.
0:17:54 > 0:17:57- Right, let's go. Have you got all your bits and bobs?- I have, yes.
0:17:57 > 0:17:58You can close the door, Michael.
0:18:04 > 0:18:09Our super sporty couple are always on the lookout for a new activity to take up,
0:18:09 > 0:18:15so with the 2012 Olympics fast approaching I thought I'd introduce them to one of the sports
0:18:15 > 0:18:19that will no doubt be featuring heavily on our TV screens. Beach volleyball.
0:18:42 > 0:18:46Clare, Ali and Sylvia belong to the Exmouth Beach Volleyball club.
0:18:46 > 0:18:53They're part of a local league, play at least once a week and welcome new members with open arms.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57But I'm going to take a break before I do myself a serious injury to find out more
0:18:57 > 0:19:00about this Olympic sport from team captain Ali West.
0:19:03 > 0:19:07It's got an interesting history. I was surprised how long it's been around.
0:19:07 > 0:19:10Yeah, it's been going since 1915.
0:19:10 > 0:19:15I think it was first invented by some surfers at Waikiki Beach in Hawaii.
0:19:15 > 0:19:19- 1915! That's in the middle of the First World War.- Exactly, yeah.
0:19:19 > 0:19:21How did it arise?
0:19:21 > 0:19:25I think they wanted to do something when there was no surf,
0:19:25 > 0:19:30so they thought, "Let's mess around playing with a ball."
0:19:30 > 0:19:35- And then the Californians took over, and then it's become an Olympic sport.- Since when?
0:19:35 > 0:19:37When did it start?
0:19:37 > 0:19:40The first showing was in Barcelona.
0:19:40 > 0:19:42They didn't play for medals.
0:19:42 > 0:19:45But then the first official one was at Atlanta Olympics.
0:19:45 > 0:19:49- We've got it coming up in 2012? - Yeah.- Where are they going to play in England?
0:19:49 > 0:19:52London, of all places, Horse Guards Parade.
0:19:52 > 0:19:55No way. Shirley and Mike are moving down here.
0:19:55 > 0:19:59They're very active retirees.
0:19:59 > 0:20:01Is it something that anybody can take part in?
0:20:01 > 0:20:03Absolutely. Anyone, any age.
0:20:03 > 0:20:07That's the beauty of it. Anyone can come along and just join in.
0:20:07 > 0:20:11You don't have to be particularly sporty. Just throw yourself around.
0:20:11 > 0:20:15And on that note, I think we'll rejoin the action.
0:20:15 > 0:20:19We're not playing beach volleyball rules because, as opposed to indoor volleyball
0:20:19 > 0:20:22which is played in teams, beach volleyball is played in pairs.
0:20:22 > 0:20:25Our team needs all the help it can get.
0:20:28 > 0:20:30I'm exhausted!
0:20:30 > 0:20:31Time for a cup of tea.
0:20:36 > 0:20:42As the sun begins to set over the south Devon scenery, the first day of our property tour is at an end.
0:20:51 > 0:20:56Shirley and Michael are in search of a slower pace of life on the south Devon coast.
0:20:56 > 0:20:58They liked a 1930s house we viewed,
0:20:58 > 0:21:03although I don't think we've really blown their socks off yet.
0:21:03 > 0:21:06But could all that be about to change?
0:21:06 > 0:21:07I want to move in!
0:21:09 > 0:21:15Or will it be the mystery house that has keen yachtsman Michael battening down the hatches?
0:21:15 > 0:21:19You're not getting interested in this place, are you?
0:21:19 > 0:21:21He's been interested since he walked through the door.
0:21:26 > 0:21:31We're kicking off today's search in the charming coastal town of Budleigh Salterton.
0:21:31 > 0:21:37This part of east Devon is an area of outstanding natural beauty and the red sandstone cliffs
0:21:37 > 0:21:44that bookend the two-and-a-half mile pebble beach mark the very beginning of the world-famous Jurassic coast.
0:21:45 > 0:21:51Away from the water, the High Street has wholly resisted the influx of chain stores
0:21:51 > 0:21:55and local independent retailers serve the 5,000-strong population.
0:21:56 > 0:22:02The heady combination of sea air, old-fashioned charm and handsome period properties makes it
0:22:02 > 0:22:08a popular destination, particularly for retirees, who account for more than one-third of total residents.
0:22:08 > 0:22:13So Michael and Shirley will be in good company when they do give up their jobs.
0:22:15 > 0:22:21The house we're viewing is a half-a-mile walk from the High Street in a truly secluded position.
0:22:22 > 0:22:28Before I show you anything else, Michael, I want you to meet your new double garage.
0:22:28 > 0:22:31- Priorities. Absolutely.- I've got it into my head now
0:22:31 > 0:22:34what is important about this house-buying business.
0:22:34 > 0:22:36Clearly it's the garage.
0:22:36 > 0:22:38That's a beautiful old-school 1920s garage.
0:22:38 > 0:22:41- Looks good.- It's got character.
0:22:41 > 0:22:46It's all right, Shirley, you don't have to live in there. There is a house!
0:22:46 > 0:22:51Come onto the lawn to see the full glory of this property.
0:22:51 > 0:22:54- Wonderful.- Beautiful.
0:22:54 > 0:23:01It's a 1920s house. Extended up and out in various parts of its history.
0:23:01 > 0:23:05- Good.- First impression, it's so peaceful here.- It looks fantastic.
0:23:05 > 0:23:07I want to get inside now.
0:23:07 > 0:23:09- You're itching to get in?- Yes.
0:23:09 > 0:23:10Well, you can't go in!
0:23:13 > 0:23:16'That's what you call a perfect start to a house tour.
0:23:16 > 0:23:20'And I have a feeling Shirley will be equally enchanted by the interior.
0:23:20 > 0:23:26'The owners have refurbished the place in the last few years, and it's beautifully decked out.'
0:23:26 > 0:23:29Come into the sitting room.
0:23:29 > 0:23:30That view as well.
0:23:30 > 0:23:36- Isn't that magnificent?- Gorgeous. - It's interesting, your eyes went immediately to the view.
0:23:36 > 0:23:39- Yes. A pretty room.- Beautiful.
0:23:39 > 0:23:43- Beautiful original 1920s fireplace. - Even though it's a big,
0:23:43 > 0:23:48light room, it still feels cosy, which is nice.
0:23:48 > 0:23:50It's wonderful. Yes.
0:23:50 > 0:23:52What do you like about it?
0:23:52 > 0:23:57I like the airiness, the view and the window, and it's got a good feel in here.
0:23:57 > 0:24:01It feels like home.
0:24:01 > 0:24:05'I'd say that's the sound of a box being ticked.
0:24:05 > 0:24:09'And just next door is something Shirley has been hankering after for some time.'
0:24:10 > 0:24:14- I like this.- You like this?- Yes. I've always wanted a conservatory, always.
0:24:14 > 0:24:20They put this on about five years ago because they wanted to have space to dine.
0:24:20 > 0:24:22So it acts as a sort of dining room.
0:24:22 > 0:24:27But what's great about it is that all these windows open and obviously the door out onto the terrace.
0:24:27 > 0:24:32- What a wonderful way to sit. Gosh, you wouldn't want to work. - It's beautiful.
0:24:32 > 0:24:37Effectively, it functions as the dining room to the kitchen because it flows straight in here.
0:24:37 > 0:24:41- I like this as well. I want to move in!- Ah!
0:24:41 > 0:24:43But I haven't seen the rest.
0:24:43 > 0:24:49'That is music to my ears, but Shirley should see all the house before booking the removal men!'
0:24:49 > 0:24:52This is a great little room.
0:24:52 > 0:24:54This is pretty too.
0:24:54 > 0:24:58- A balcony.- You like balconies.
0:24:58 > 0:25:02- You've got to bear in mind this house started off as a bungalow.- Really?- Really.
0:25:02 > 0:25:05So bedrooms are going to be an issue for you.
0:25:05 > 0:25:10We have one bedroom downstairs, this is technically another bedroom,
0:25:10 > 0:25:13- and upstairs we've just got the master bedroom.- I see, yes.
0:25:13 > 0:25:17So they're using this as a second lounge because it's just the two of them living here,
0:25:17 > 0:25:21but you would need to kind of configure whether you'd have this as a bedroom,
0:25:21 > 0:25:26or whether you'd keep it as an office, or maybe as a visitors' room.
0:25:26 > 0:25:31- You could have one of those sofa beds that comes down so it could be dual purpose.- Absolutely.
0:25:31 > 0:25:35'It's difficult to know without seeing everything there is here,
0:25:35 > 0:25:37'so let's continue with the tour.'
0:25:37 > 0:25:43Up the stairs to your one and only but beautifully appointed master bedroom.
0:25:43 > 0:25:45It is. Beautifully done.
0:25:45 > 0:25:49- There's a little en suite across the landing.- For us this is ideal.
0:25:49 > 0:25:54I notice there's all little nooks and crannies in that which is fantastic.
0:25:54 > 0:25:57- Good use of space here.- So that's everything inside.- Yes.
0:25:57 > 0:26:00Is that going to be enough space for you?
0:26:00 > 0:26:02It's so lovely, I think...
0:26:02 > 0:26:04We'd find somewhere.
0:26:05 > 0:26:10- Forget about the seven bedrooms I needed, this is beautiful.- Yes, very impressed.
0:26:10 > 0:26:12There are options outside as well.
0:26:12 > 0:26:17'It looks like the wish-list has been torn up and thrown away
0:26:17 > 0:26:21'but I seem to remember a separate consulting room being of paramount importance.
0:26:21 > 0:26:26'There's good news for this property - Shirley may not have to compromise at all.'
0:26:28 > 0:26:32- Oh!- Lots of nooks and crannies including this.
0:26:32 > 0:26:36I thought, Dr Shirley, this would be a good consulting room.
0:26:36 > 0:26:42It would. Clients would be relaxed straightaway coming in here.
0:26:42 > 0:26:46That's what I'm thinking. Take a seat. See if it works.
0:26:46 > 0:26:48- How does it feel?- It works.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51I've been feeling quite stressed with this job to be honest.
0:26:51 > 0:26:56- Tell me your troubles.- I've had difficult clients, picky, they don't know what they want.- This week?
0:26:56 > 0:26:59Yes, sometimes they want...
0:27:00 > 0:27:07- This would work, wouldn't it? It's a nice space.- It's the right size and the ambience is good.
0:27:07 > 0:27:12- You've got the advantage that they don't have to come through the house as well.- Oh, yes.
0:27:12 > 0:27:16- You can put heaters in here in the wintertime.- That would be ideal, wouldn't it?
0:27:16 > 0:27:19'Thumbs up. But what will they make of the garden?
0:27:19 > 0:27:22'At one third of an acre, it's quite sizable.'
0:27:24 > 0:27:27It's a beautiful property but it's a particularly beautiful garden.
0:27:27 > 0:27:30- I was worried it might be a bit big.- Not at all.
0:27:30 > 0:27:33I like big gardens, if they are already in place.
0:27:33 > 0:27:35You're sold on this property. I can see.
0:27:35 > 0:27:38"It's a graveyard here." "No, it's fine!"
0:27:38 > 0:27:43As far as I'm concerned, I don't mind cutting grass, I find that very relaxing.
0:27:43 > 0:27:47- As far as I can see it's all low maintenance.- Slightly rose-tinted goggles there.
0:27:47 > 0:27:53It's a very low-maintenance garden, you'd have to do nothing to keep it as perfect as it is.
0:27:53 > 0:27:55Marvellous.
0:27:55 > 0:27:58What about the price of the property?
0:27:58 > 0:28:02I think £499,500.
0:28:02 > 0:28:10- So right at the top of your budget? - I'm thinking it's over the 500 mark, I'm going to say 520.
0:28:12 > 0:28:19Well, you're very realistic because it's actually offers around 525.
0:28:19 > 0:28:24In the present climate, the buyer is keen, I just think in terms of location
0:28:24 > 0:28:32and what it offers in terms of ready-made, move in, beautiful family house, it's hard to beat.
0:28:32 > 0:28:35Yes, it is. It's beautiful.
0:28:35 > 0:28:39It's not going to be a challenge for you to walk round this one, is it?
0:28:39 > 0:28:43- No.- No. Can't wait. - I'm very impressed, 10 out of 10!
0:28:43 > 0:28:46- Pat me on the head.- 10 out of 10! Well done!
0:28:48 > 0:28:52My heart's pounding and proud, made Shirley happy, that makes me happy,
0:28:52 > 0:28:56and I think this property would make just about anybody happy.
0:28:59 > 0:29:06The offers around £525,000 price-tag is down to the hugely-desirable Budleigh Salterton postcode.
0:29:06 > 0:29:09The agent has assured me that vendors are open to negotiation.
0:29:09 > 0:29:14It's a spacious chalet bungalow with an open-plan kitchen/conservatory/diner.
0:29:18 > 0:29:22Shirley seems happy with the summerhouse as a consultation room.
0:29:29 > 0:29:32This property is almost perfect.
0:29:32 > 0:29:36I adore that beautiful garden and I really love the house.
0:29:36 > 0:29:38Beautiful room, isn't it?
0:29:38 > 0:29:40Fantastic.
0:29:40 > 0:29:45- Very well done. - I love these insets in here.
0:29:45 > 0:29:52It's a beautiful spot, very, very peaceful, lovely house and the sort of thing we are looking for, yes.
0:29:52 > 0:29:55You've got us thinking now.
0:29:55 > 0:30:01A possibility here, I could see myself making a home here and enjoying it.
0:30:01 > 0:30:04You took ages in this one, is that because you like it?
0:30:04 > 0:30:06I love it.
0:30:06 > 0:30:09Very good. Big smiles, we like that. On we go.
0:30:12 > 0:30:17With a brief as wide as Michael and Shirley's it's quite difficult to think of a mystery house
0:30:17 > 0:30:20as they're open to most things, however, with our mystery house
0:30:20 > 0:30:25I really do think we've pulled things into shipshape focus.
0:30:27 > 0:30:33- So the mystery house, coming up next, what you think we might be seeing?- I don't know.
0:30:33 > 0:30:40I'm hoping it's going to be something completely different and perhaps something that we haven't thought of.
0:30:40 > 0:30:45It probably will be. If it's a floating boat, you'll love it and I won't.
0:30:47 > 0:30:49'Well, Shirley isn't too far off the mark.
0:30:49 > 0:30:53'The mystery house isn't a boat but it does have nautical connections
0:30:53 > 0:30:55'and we're heading to Exmouth.
0:30:55 > 0:30:59'Now, this typical Georgian and Victorian seaside resort
0:30:59 > 0:31:02'is a busy coastal town.
0:31:02 > 0:31:08'But escaping the hordes is easy when you have two miles of golden sand on the doorstep.
0:31:08 > 0:31:10'And for those who want to get even further away
0:31:10 > 0:31:14'it's home to one of south Devon's most popular yachting marinas.
0:31:14 > 0:31:19'Here, for many, sailing is a way of life and we don't have to voyage far for the mystery house
0:31:19 > 0:31:25'as it's situated right on the water's edge in a prestigious marina development.
0:31:25 > 0:31:31'For seafaring Mike it should be the dream, the question is, will Shirley share his sentiment?'
0:31:34 > 0:31:39- Here it is, the mystery house.- Here it is.- The whole three storeys.
0:31:39 > 0:31:42- The whole of it?- Oh, yeah. - Gosh.
0:31:42 > 0:31:47- Garage?- Yes, this is your garage, I almost forgot. So you're happy.
0:31:47 > 0:31:51- What are your first impressions? - It's blue.
0:31:51 > 0:31:54I'm not sure what else to say.
0:31:54 > 0:31:58- It's blue, yes.- Well, I'm looking and thinking, "No problem with what I see."
0:31:58 > 0:32:03I'm in anticipation of what I might see inside.
0:32:03 > 0:32:06You wanted something you could move straight into
0:32:06 > 0:32:10and one of you wanted something that would be good for your leisure activities,
0:32:10 > 0:32:11one of you will be happy.
0:32:15 > 0:32:16Straight through.
0:32:16 > 0:32:19Hold your breath...
0:32:19 > 0:32:23- Ta-da!- Oh, yes. - Yippee-doo!- Oh, yes.
0:32:23 > 0:32:27I don't want you to look at the house
0:32:27 > 0:32:31because I want you to go straight out here, out to this.
0:32:31 > 0:32:35Oh, yes, this is what it's all about.
0:32:35 > 0:32:38- This is Mike's scene. - Now you're talking!
0:32:38 > 0:32:41- Lovely. - Look, boats, listen.
0:32:41 > 0:32:43Boats everywhere.
0:32:43 > 0:32:46- The gulls, the clink clink clink. - It's beautiful.
0:32:46 > 0:32:51- Come on, Mike, spill the beans, what do you think?- It's lovely, fantastic outlook.
0:32:51 > 0:32:58Even the noise of the halyards against the mast is just what sailing's about.
0:32:58 > 0:33:00I don't even know what a halyard is.
0:33:00 > 0:33:04You'll get to know it after about 10 seconds of living here.
0:33:04 > 0:33:06The highlight - what do you think this building is?
0:33:06 > 0:33:10- It looks very much like sailing club to me.- It is.
0:33:10 > 0:33:16- So Shirley...- Yes, Alastair, what have you got for me, then?- This is slightly slanted towards Mike.
0:33:16 > 0:33:21- Yes, it is.- Although it is beautiful, don't you think?- Yes, it is. It's very pretty out here.
0:33:21 > 0:33:25- You can run all a long the Exe. - I could paint.- You could paint beautiful paintings.
0:33:25 > 0:33:29Yes, well, hey ho, you know.
0:33:29 > 0:33:34- Well, enough of this, we'll come back to the view many times but let's look inside the property.- OK.
0:33:36 > 0:33:42Working on the basis that the two of you have completely fallen in love with the view, Shirley,
0:33:42 > 0:33:45let's talk through the inside of the house.
0:33:45 > 0:33:49This is the kitchen. Very clearly a galley kitchen.
0:33:49 > 0:33:50Very blue again.
0:33:50 > 0:33:53Let's talk realistically about this property.
0:33:53 > 0:33:59If Mike was on his own, it would be a good bachelor pad, this would suit him down to the ground.
0:33:59 > 0:34:03So if ever we part company, you can come back again!
0:34:03 > 0:34:06So for you it's absolutely out of the question?
0:34:06 > 0:34:08For me?
0:34:08 > 0:34:10- It's not me at all.- Not you at all.
0:34:10 > 0:34:12No.
0:34:12 > 0:34:16- Not even a bit?- Maybe, it might grow on me as I go around.
0:34:16 > 0:34:19- I'll keep my options open. - It's got a lot going for it.
0:34:19 > 0:34:22You wouldn't mind it, would you? This is you, with boats.
0:34:22 > 0:34:26It meets a lot of my criteria. I have to say that.
0:34:26 > 0:34:30- Your skipper's hat on, you'd be away.- Absolutely.
0:34:30 > 0:34:31Well, it's got four bedrooms...
0:34:31 > 0:34:36- Really?- ..one of which could be your treatment room.
0:34:36 > 0:34:39I'm not sure you're going to be very happy about it.
0:34:40 > 0:34:43It's small, functional, simple.
0:34:43 > 0:34:45It's on the ground floor, by the front door,
0:34:45 > 0:34:50- so I was thinking maybe... - Quick getaway, maybe.- Maybe a consultancy room?
0:34:50 > 0:34:51Maybe not.
0:34:51 > 0:34:55Come on, be fair, it would work, wouldn't it?
0:34:55 > 0:34:56- Would it?- Yes.
0:34:56 > 0:35:01- Give it a chance!- Yes, Mike, come on, mate, let's gang up!
0:35:01 > 0:35:04'The location is obviously working its magic on Michael
0:35:04 > 0:35:08'but I think convincing Shirley could be an uphill struggle.'
0:35:08 > 0:35:10Come into the living room.
0:35:10 > 0:35:13Nautical themed again, nice and blue.
0:35:13 > 0:35:15Very blue.
0:35:15 > 0:35:20Sit down. I'm going to sit you here, Shirley, until you fall in love with this view.
0:35:20 > 0:35:25- I think it is a lovely view. - It would improve because twice a day this would be all water...
0:35:25 > 0:35:28- Absolutely.- ..when the tide is in.
0:35:28 > 0:35:31I'd never hear the last of it, would I?
0:35:31 > 0:35:36You'd be telling me the tide times. You do that now! You'd be even worse when we're here.
0:35:36 > 0:35:40- Well, you'd know them. - Just by immersion, you'd learn them.
0:35:40 > 0:35:43I feel we're ganging up on you. I'm going to stop that.
0:35:43 > 0:35:47- You're on his side.- But there is this...endless things to look at.
0:35:47 > 0:35:53You don't need a television because you always have someone messing around on a boat or a kite-surfer...
0:35:53 > 0:35:56'On this floor is the second bedroom and the bathroom.
0:35:56 > 0:36:02'The final two bedrooms occupy the third level, including the master, with en suite.'
0:36:02 > 0:36:05And what a view to wake up to.
0:36:05 > 0:36:08Lovely view.
0:36:08 > 0:36:13- It is.- I believe you. - This is what would make you get out of bed in the morning.
0:36:13 > 0:36:16Just to get up and look at that view.
0:36:16 > 0:36:22I'm thinking, because the river runs north-south, that must be west...
0:36:22 > 0:36:24- Fantastic sunsets.- Beautiful.
0:36:24 > 0:36:26The sun sets over Starcross
0:36:26 > 0:36:31so pretty much on all the three floors you'd get bathed in golden light.
0:36:33 > 0:36:36You're not getting interested in this place, are you?
0:36:36 > 0:36:39He's been interested since he walked through the door!
0:36:41 > 0:36:45One of my dreams has been to live right on the beach.
0:36:45 > 0:36:46That's right, yes.
0:36:46 > 0:36:50- Could it be one of your dreams, too? - Probably not. The view I like, yes.
0:36:50 > 0:36:54Across the landing is another nice bedroom, maybe for the grandchildren.
0:36:56 > 0:37:00I thought of the grandchildren because there are two single beds in it.
0:37:00 > 0:37:04But this could also maybe be your treatment room. It's a bit higher up.
0:37:04 > 0:37:08Yellow. You've got nice views of the marina.
0:37:08 > 0:37:14- Soothing. It's proven that it's soothing for counselling people. - Excellent. It would be ideal.
0:37:14 > 0:37:20- It's perfect.- The marina would be very useful because that's where you'd keep the cruising boats.
0:37:20 > 0:37:22Hang on, you're starting to sound a bit too eager!
0:37:22 > 0:37:26I just want to know, where do I sign?
0:37:26 > 0:37:31Before you start budgeting for a new cruiser, let's go outside and talk about the price.
0:37:36 > 0:37:41Ah, the sound of the halyards, the flapping of the sails,
0:37:41 > 0:37:44the cries of the gulls, the lapping of the water...
0:37:44 > 0:37:46It's so peaceful.
0:37:46 > 0:37:49- Do you love the house? - I love it, I love it!
0:37:49 > 0:37:50It's not hypnotising you?
0:37:50 > 0:37:54- Not really, no.- What about you, Mike? You're in love with it, aren't you?
0:37:54 > 0:37:59I think it's a lovely position but at the end of the day,
0:37:59 > 0:38:02I have to bow to senior management.
0:38:02 > 0:38:03How much do you think it costs?
0:38:03 > 0:38:05310?
0:38:05 > 0:38:08310?
0:38:08 > 0:38:11I'm going to go a little bit higher and say 370.
0:38:11 > 0:38:13370.
0:38:13 > 0:38:18I'm going to give you a piece of information that might help you make your mind up one way or the other.
0:38:18 > 0:38:25- You think so?- This property is on the market for...£545,000.
0:38:25 > 0:38:31That must be one of the few occasions when the price of a house stops an argument rather than starts one.
0:38:31 > 0:38:35- That's true.- A shame, though.- The picture of relief on your face!
0:38:35 > 0:38:36- "Such a shame."- Such a shame.
0:38:36 > 0:38:42Yes, properties by the coast are spectacularly expensive.
0:38:42 > 0:38:46- Amazing. - This is probably the last chance you'll get to look at those views
0:38:46 > 0:38:51- so why don't you go round, have a look and I'll meet you out the front?- OK.
0:38:51 > 0:38:57Poor Mike - he looked genuinely heartbroken, whereas Shirley, absolutely gleeful.
0:38:57 > 0:39:03Well, it's the mystery house. You really can't guarantee what's going to happen.
0:39:03 > 0:39:09With an asking price of £545,000, this marina townhouse is considerably over-budget
0:39:09 > 0:39:16but having been on the market for some months, there should be some bargaining room.
0:39:16 > 0:39:18You couldn't get much closer to the water.
0:39:27 > 0:39:30But it doesn't look like our skipper and cabin girl
0:39:30 > 0:39:32will be making it their port of call.
0:39:34 > 0:39:36The views are gorgeous, aren't they?
0:39:36 > 0:39:37I must admit they are.
0:39:37 > 0:39:39You're right there.
0:39:39 > 0:39:42I think Mike thought it was Christmas when we came here.
0:39:42 > 0:39:45He's talked about something like this in the past.
0:39:45 > 0:39:53I've enjoyed it, coming here. It's been great fun. But really, realistically, it's not for me.
0:39:53 > 0:39:56The position of the mystery house is absolutely perfect -
0:39:56 > 0:40:01On the beach, overlooking the water, boats all around you. I couldn't ask for anything better.
0:40:01 > 0:40:05Reluctantly, I have to concede on this one.
0:40:06 > 0:40:11- Ah! Mike, did you get one last look? - One last look. - It's etched into your memory.
0:40:11 > 0:40:15- Yes, yes.- Shirley will never let you see it again.
0:40:15 > 0:40:18- No. Never.- Come on, we'll go and find some place to recuperate.
0:40:24 > 0:40:27I was hoping the maritime magic of the mystery house
0:40:27 > 0:40:30was going to leave Mike completely besotted with the sea
0:40:30 > 0:40:34but that didn't work out and that's probably a good thing in Shirley's case.
0:40:34 > 0:40:38So let's find out what they finally think about all the houses I've shown them.
0:40:42 > 0:40:48I only thought it was fitting that we finish our adventures here in Devon down by the seaside.
0:40:48 > 0:40:50Have you enjoyed it?
0:40:50 > 0:40:53Thoroughly enjoyed it. I've had a wonderful time.
0:40:53 > 0:40:58If you can cast our mind back to the very first property we showed you, you were quite taken by this.
0:40:58 > 0:41:01I liked the entrance. Lovely driveway.
0:41:01 > 0:41:07Really neat and well-done and that master bedroom, with the balcony.
0:41:07 > 0:41:09That was really good.
0:41:09 > 0:41:14And of course, the big thing with it was it was moveable-into tomorrow,
0:41:14 > 0:41:21which is one of the things that we've pulled out of this, one of the things we're looking for. So it was good.
0:41:21 > 0:41:25And I also really learnt there how intuitive you are about house-buying.
0:41:25 > 0:41:27It really was, "This, no. That, yes."
0:41:27 > 0:41:31Because when we took you to see the house in Budleigh Salterton...
0:41:31 > 0:41:34I just wanted to stay there.
0:41:34 > 0:41:36I loved it.
0:41:36 > 0:41:39That beautiful conservatory,
0:41:39 > 0:41:42which was something we'd been thinking about for a long time,
0:41:42 > 0:41:46and to move into something like that would be really great.
0:41:46 > 0:41:49It was so jolly relaxing there, too.
0:41:49 > 0:41:51We could sit and chill out.
0:41:51 > 0:41:53And then the mystery house...
0:41:55 > 0:41:58- I know that secretly you really... - I fell in love with.
0:41:59 > 0:42:02That was really one for you, Mike.
0:42:02 > 0:42:04Did that bring anything into focus?
0:42:04 > 0:42:07Yes, once we found out the price,
0:42:07 > 0:42:12it made me realise there that living right on the edge of the sea
0:42:12 > 0:42:14does come at a price.
0:42:14 > 0:42:17I think the house itself wasn't for us.
0:42:17 > 0:42:21Looking overall, because it was a very big, wide brief you gave me,
0:42:21 > 0:42:28and I was wondering whether the course of the programme has helped you focus in on what's important,
0:42:28 > 0:42:32and was there one of those houses that you'd like to proceed on?
0:42:32 > 0:42:38Budleigh Salterton. Although...it hasn't been on the market very long, I understand.
0:42:38 > 0:42:43And there's a lot of interest. And we haven't actually finalised the selling of our house yet.
0:42:43 > 0:42:47It's been fantastic. I've enjoyed showing you around these properties.
0:42:47 > 0:42:51You have a great sense of humour, and I hope you put down anchors here soon,
0:42:51 > 0:42:54because the county is crying out for you.
0:42:54 > 0:42:59- Thank you, Alastair. We've had a wonderful week, really enjoyed it. - It's been really great.
0:42:59 > 0:43:01- My pleasure, Cap'n.- Aye, aye.
0:43:05 > 0:43:09I do think this show has brought things into nautical, crisp focus.
0:43:09 > 0:43:11Too close to the sea is too expensive.
0:43:11 > 0:43:15They want something they can move straight into and they would like a balcony.
0:43:15 > 0:43:19If you've been inspired to make a move, rural or nautical,
0:43:19 > 0:43:23make sure you join us next time for more Escape To The Country.
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0:43:40 > 0:43:42Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd