0:00:04 > 0:00:08Today, I'm in the county where modern motor racing was born.
0:00:08 > 0:00:11This track was the setting for the very first ever British Grand Prix.
0:00:11 > 0:00:15It's also the spot where those magnificent men built their flying machines,
0:00:15 > 0:00:20so on your marks, set and ready for a very speedy Escape To The Country.
0:00:37 > 0:00:42In today's show, we've lined up a selection of properties for a family from Wimbledon in London,
0:00:42 > 0:00:45but will we find them a house in the country that they can call home?
0:00:45 > 0:00:47I'd spend a lot of time in here.
0:00:47 > 0:00:51We've got a fantastic line-up, but will they agree on what they want?
0:00:51 > 0:00:54This could have the potential of being a play room.
0:00:55 > 0:00:56- It couldn't!- Could!
0:00:58 > 0:01:01And, of course, there's my favourite - the Mystery House,
0:01:01 > 0:01:04which always sets the cat amongst the pigeons!
0:01:07 > 0:01:11Today I'm in Surrey, at the world's first ever purpose-built racetrack
0:01:11 > 0:01:17and it was here, in 1926, that the story of the British Grand Prix began.
0:01:17 > 0:01:21It's also the site where British aviation first spread its wings.
0:01:21 > 0:01:24A competition was held to fly the circuit and was inspiration
0:01:24 > 0:01:27for Those Magnificent Men In Their Flying Machines.
0:01:27 > 0:01:32Now all this talk about transportation is rather apt, because Surrey's best-known
0:01:32 > 0:01:38attribute is its close proximity to London and the commuter culture borne of the last 60 years.
0:01:38 > 0:01:44Sitting within a stone's throw of South West London and nesting between West Sussex and Hampshire,
0:01:44 > 0:01:49Surrey's proximity to the Big Smoke hasn't detracted from its get-away-from-it-all appeal.
0:01:49 > 0:01:54This may well be commuter belt territory, but that doesn't mean it's all suburbia.
0:01:54 > 0:01:5870% of Surrey is designated Green Belt and surprisingly,
0:01:58 > 0:02:03it's the UK's most wooded county, with over 22% of it forested.
0:02:03 > 0:02:08Add to this the hundreds of acres of heath, parkland and farmland stretching from the Surrey hills
0:02:08 > 0:02:14in the south to the North Downs and it's clear why living here has such appeal.
0:02:14 > 0:02:16At the heart of the county is the town of Guildford.
0:02:16 > 0:02:20Striding the River Wey, it has a thriving and busy shopping district,
0:02:20 > 0:02:23with pretty much everything you need on your doorstep.
0:02:23 > 0:02:27Surrey's housing stock is a varied mix of old and new,
0:02:27 > 0:02:31from classic timber-framed buildings to remote farmhouses.
0:02:34 > 0:02:38The combination of beautiful countryside, excellent schools
0:02:38 > 0:02:43and close proximity to London means that Surrey doesn't come cheap.
0:02:43 > 0:02:50In fact, it's the third most expensive place in the UK to buy, after Buckinghamshire and Windsor.
0:02:50 > 0:02:55The average detached property here would cost you around £485,000.
0:02:55 > 0:02:57That's nearly double the national average,
0:02:57 > 0:03:01but that doesn't seem to deter buyers wanting to escape from the city
0:03:01 > 0:03:06and when properties do come on the market, some of them are absolutely stunning!
0:03:06 > 0:03:12A cool £1.4m will buy you this six bedroom, 16th century farmhouse near Send.
0:03:12 > 0:03:15It's jam-packed with period features and if you want to house
0:03:15 > 0:03:19a horse or two, it's got its own stables and paddocks.
0:03:19 > 0:03:23Or how about spending £650,000 in Brockham for this
0:03:23 > 0:03:26picture-perfect three bedroom Grade II Listed cottage.
0:03:26 > 0:03:29It's full of character and has some great views, too.
0:03:31 > 0:03:33Or if you want a little spare change,
0:03:33 > 0:03:39for £350,000 you could snap up this two-bedroom Gothic-style converted stable block, near Cooksbury Common.
0:03:39 > 0:03:42It also comes with a garage and a workshop.
0:03:43 > 0:03:48There are some fabulous properties in this county, but if you're thinking of moving to Surrey,
0:03:48 > 0:03:54not only are you going to have to have very deep pockets, you're also going to need to be flexible, too.
0:03:54 > 0:03:56Because of the downturn in the market,
0:03:56 > 0:03:59there's less stock out there, which means competition is rife.
0:03:59 > 0:04:06On average, there are nine buyers for every property up for sale, so the answer could be to compromise.
0:04:06 > 0:04:10Now, our buyers, they're a discerning couple and they know exactly what they want,
0:04:10 > 0:04:16but here at Escape To The Country, well, we love a challenge, so let's meet the buyers.
0:04:17 > 0:04:20Today's property hunters are from Wimbledon in London.
0:04:20 > 0:04:23Chris is a management consultant and Jules, a lawyer.
0:04:23 > 0:04:28They and two-year-old son, Harry, have outgrown their four-bedroom Victorian terrace
0:04:28 > 0:04:31and are desperate for something bigger in the country.
0:04:31 > 0:04:35We want to move to the country now because we've lived here for a good five years.
0:04:35 > 0:04:40In those years we've started a family. We've got a two-year-old and another one on the way.
0:04:40 > 0:04:45We need more space for us all and we want easier access to the countryside, as well.
0:04:45 > 0:04:50I think what we're really trying to do when we move to the country is get back to doing what we used to
0:04:50 > 0:04:56do a lot more of, which is more of the cross-country walking and hiking and mountain-biking in particular.
0:04:56 > 0:05:01Location is absolutely key to our search here, as Chris and Jules still work in London
0:05:01 > 0:05:06and with their growing family, it's crucial they're close to schools and commuter links, too.
0:05:06 > 0:05:09We're looking to try and find a balance
0:05:09 > 0:05:12between the proximity to the countryside,
0:05:12 > 0:05:17but also the practicality of a small urban area,
0:05:17 > 0:05:21where we've got the good commuter links and we've got the basic amenities
0:05:21 > 0:05:24and the access to the local schools, etc.
0:05:24 > 0:05:27So what are their requirements for their new home?
0:05:27 > 0:05:29In the next property, something we would like
0:05:29 > 0:05:33is at least a back door, if not a utility, because with the house we're currently in,
0:05:33 > 0:05:36we're coming in the front door with our muddy walking boots,
0:05:36 > 0:05:40our running shoes and carrying our bikes through the house,
0:05:40 > 0:05:42so we'd like to keep that separate.
0:05:42 > 0:05:45Chris has a passion for motor racing and spends many a weekend
0:05:45 > 0:05:49at the wheels of his pride and joy... a Caterham seven.
0:05:49 > 0:05:53So these are a couple of my son Harry's cars which he really loves,
0:05:53 > 0:05:57and he loves them so much that at night he stores them in a tin
0:05:57 > 0:06:02in his cot, which is great for him, but unfortunately for me, my garage is about a 20-minute walk away,
0:06:02 > 0:06:08so what I'd really like in the next property is a detached garage so that I can be close to my car at night.
0:06:08 > 0:06:10Although they've outgrown their current house,
0:06:10 > 0:06:13there are some features they want to replicate.
0:06:13 > 0:06:16This is our kitchen/diner. It's our favourite room in the house,
0:06:16 > 0:06:21where we spend all our time cooking, playing with Harry.
0:06:21 > 0:06:24We created it ourselves from three very small, dark rooms,
0:06:24 > 0:06:26so we're pleased with what we've done with it.
0:06:26 > 0:06:31What we're hoping for in the next property is something that's very similar,
0:06:31 > 0:06:37because we love the spaciousness and the lightness to the rooms, so really key for the next place.
0:06:37 > 0:06:41We know what they want and we know where they need to be, so in order to find out how much
0:06:41 > 0:06:45their own house is worth, we brought in a local estate agent.
0:06:45 > 0:06:48It's a fantastic house. What they've done is superb,
0:06:48 > 0:06:52with the extension and the works carried out. Very desirable for a young family.
0:06:52 > 0:06:58In my opinion, I would put the property on the market at £599,500.
0:07:00 > 0:07:04So, how much does that leave them to spend on their next property?
0:07:04 > 0:07:08The budget for our new property that we're going to be looking at is £600,000.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16Chris and Jules dream of what almost every other young couple
0:07:16 > 0:07:21in London want, which is going to make our house-hunt even harder.
0:07:21 > 0:07:27Essentially, they want a four bedroom detached property, a large kitchen/diner, utility and, ideally,
0:07:27 > 0:07:33a double garage and remember, all of this has to be within a 40-minute commute to Central London.
0:07:33 > 0:07:34Wish me luck!
0:07:36 > 0:07:38We'll be starting our search today
0:07:38 > 0:07:40around some of the villages close to Guildford,
0:07:40 > 0:07:42important for Jules and Chris as,
0:07:42 > 0:07:45along with wanting the countryside, they also need great rail links.
0:07:46 > 0:07:50I'll be taking them on a tour of some fantastic houses,
0:07:50 > 0:07:54but as ever, I won't be revealing the price tags straight away.
0:07:55 > 0:07:59The finale is the Mystery House, which always shakes things up!
0:08:01 > 0:08:03- Hi, Chris and Jules. - Hi, good morning.
0:08:03 > 0:08:08Lovely to meet you and we've picked a glorious day to explore a little bit of Surrey!
0:08:08 > 0:08:11So, is this your first step into a new life in the country?
0:08:11 > 0:08:15First step property-hunting, yes, yep, looking forward to it.
0:08:15 > 0:08:20Your current budget is £600,000. Is there any movement on that?
0:08:20 > 0:08:25I think we'll be good to look at properties a little bit more up to £700,000, because I think
0:08:25 > 0:08:29in this current market, I think there are some good deals to be had, so...
0:08:29 > 0:08:30You're a good negotiator?
0:08:30 > 0:08:34Maybe unproven in the property arena, but I would give it a go!
0:08:34 > 0:08:38I know that location is really important to you?
0:08:38 > 0:08:39It's absolutely key for this move.
0:08:39 > 0:08:42We've got to maintain good commuter links into London.
0:08:42 > 0:08:45get into the catchment of good local schools
0:08:45 > 0:08:48and obviously the property plot itself is really important.
0:08:48 > 0:08:52Are you willing to compromise on any of those if we find you the right property?
0:08:52 > 0:08:55The fact that so many people want to make exactly the type
0:08:55 > 0:08:58of move we want to make, there's going to be compromises.
0:08:58 > 0:09:01Jules, I've got to ask you, soon to have another little one, I see?
0:09:01 > 0:09:03Yes, just a few weeks away.
0:09:03 > 0:09:05Are we hoping to move before or after the baby?
0:09:05 > 0:09:08I don't know, it's tricky. Definitely not in the middle!
0:09:08 > 0:09:11We're not going to hang around, at all!
0:09:11 > 0:09:13I've got some fabulous properties for you to see and,
0:09:13 > 0:09:16of course, we've got the mystery property, as well,
0:09:16 > 0:09:17we can't forget that!
0:09:17 > 0:09:20Our chariot awaits - shall we start exploring Surrey?
0:09:20 > 0:09:22- Let's do that!- Let's go!- Great!
0:09:22 > 0:09:25Jules and Chris have a budget of up to £600,000,
0:09:25 > 0:09:29but are happy for us to show them properties up to the £700,000 mark.
0:09:29 > 0:09:32That's because they think, that in this climate,
0:09:32 > 0:09:34there's a good chance vendors will accept offers.
0:09:34 > 0:09:37They want a four-bedroom detached house,
0:09:37 > 0:09:40with a large kitchen/diner and a garage for Chris's classic car.
0:09:40 > 0:09:45The house has to be near good train links and close to a good school.
0:09:45 > 0:09:50Getting all of this in Surrey, and for their budget, is going to be really tricky.
0:09:50 > 0:09:54So, with the family, with Harry and obviously the little one on the way,
0:09:54 > 0:09:57schools must be a big, big consideration for you?
0:09:57 > 0:10:01Yeah, they are. That's a really key driver for this move as well is to
0:10:01 > 0:10:06get into the catchment of some good local primary and secondary schools.
0:10:06 > 0:10:11Well, Surrey actually has three of the best primary schools out of the Top 20 here, so...
0:10:11 > 0:10:12That's good to know!
0:10:12 > 0:10:14Yeah, we've just got to find them!
0:10:14 > 0:10:16Yes...and a house next door!
0:10:16 > 0:10:21'Well, I can't promise to be right next door, but we certainly are bearing schools,
0:10:21 > 0:10:24'along with a huge list of other wants, in mind on our search.'
0:10:24 > 0:10:27Our first property is located in West Horsley,
0:10:27 > 0:10:30about five miles east of Guildford.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33This lovely rural village, surrounded by Green Belt,
0:10:33 > 0:10:36is only 38 minutes away from Waterloo Station.
0:10:36 > 0:10:39It's an ideal location if you have a young family.
0:10:39 > 0:10:41It has three well-performing state primaries
0:10:41 > 0:10:45and there's lots of other amenities on your doorstep, too.
0:10:45 > 0:10:52The first one for you to have a look at, it's a 1920s semi, so what are your first impressions of the house?
0:10:52 > 0:10:54I'm definitely open-minded.
0:10:54 > 0:10:59I think, ideally, we wouldn't have come for a semi, but we know that the area we're looking at,
0:10:59 > 0:11:03the price-range, it's a type of compromise we'll likely have to make.
0:11:03 > 0:11:05'I'm glad to hear that!
0:11:05 > 0:11:10'Compromise will have to be high on their agenda, as even with their generous budget, realistically
0:11:10 > 0:11:14'in this sought-after location, a semi is all they're going to get.'
0:11:17 > 0:11:20Come on in! So here we have the hallway.
0:11:20 > 0:11:23- OK.- Spacious, light.
0:11:23 > 0:11:25Light, definitely light.
0:11:25 > 0:11:27Yeah, spacious. Very good and it's great
0:11:27 > 0:11:30that you can see through to the back garden.
0:11:30 > 0:11:33You've spotted it already! Well, that's still to come!
0:11:33 > 0:11:36- Good.- I'm going to take you through to the first reception room.
0:11:36 > 0:11:40You've got birch flooring throughout here and it goes into pine,
0:11:40 > 0:11:43so this, at the moment, is being used as a music room.
0:11:43 > 0:11:46- I don't think you'll ever have seen speakers like it!- Wow!
0:11:46 > 0:11:52But lots of storage, very light, you've got the bay window, but this room potentially could be
0:11:52 > 0:11:58used as a playroom, as a dining room and it's pretty big.
0:11:58 > 0:12:00- Or as a music room! - Would you like that?- Cinema room!
0:12:00 > 0:12:02- Yeah?- Absolutely, sure!
0:12:02 > 0:12:04So, good dimensions for this room?
0:12:04 > 0:12:05- Yeah!- It's a good size, yeah!
0:12:05 > 0:12:09A little bit bigger than I think our sitting room now, which is good.
0:12:09 > 0:12:13Especially if you're suggesting this is like a second reception room.
0:12:13 > 0:12:17It is, and it's actually the smaller of the two reception rooms.
0:12:17 > 0:12:20- So that gives you an idea...- Good! - ..of the potential of this house.
0:12:20 > 0:12:24Chris, if you lead the way, next door is the bigger reception room.
0:12:29 > 0:12:33- So, do you see what I mean about the sizes?- Yeah, it's bigger.
0:12:33 > 0:12:35Like a double reception room, in a way.
0:12:35 > 0:12:37- It's a good size.- Width and length.
0:12:37 > 0:12:39- Yep, it's a nice room again.- Yep.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42Nice and light and neutral.
0:12:42 > 0:12:46And a really good view aspect out to the garden, which looks quite long out there.
0:12:46 > 0:12:50I really like having French doors out into the garden.
0:12:50 > 0:12:52You get a lot of that with this house.
0:12:52 > 0:12:56You do really feel that that garden is a working part of the house.
0:12:56 > 0:12:58- Now it's time to show you the kitchen.- Great.
0:12:58 > 0:13:02'The one room Jules loves about her old house is her kitchen
0:13:02 > 0:13:04'and I think she's going to adore this one!'
0:13:04 > 0:13:09- Now this, I think, is a wonderful room.- Yeah, it's lovely!
0:13:09 > 0:13:11- It is!- Really nice.
0:13:11 > 0:13:13How do you feel as you walk in?
0:13:13 > 0:13:16I'd spend a lot of time in here.
0:13:16 > 0:13:20- Cooking?- No! Looking at the garden and reading my magazines!
0:13:20 > 0:13:25Yeah, that's what I thought! But this looks really smart, really light, spacious.
0:13:25 > 0:13:29I just love what they've done with the woodwork and allowing all
0:13:29 > 0:13:33that light coming through the roof and the top part. It's fantastic, really good!
0:13:33 > 0:13:36Now if you just want to take a look in there, I know this was an
0:13:36 > 0:13:42important part of your brief. Through that door is a utility room...
0:13:42 > 0:13:47- There is!- ..stroke muddy boots room, stroke bikes, whatever you want to put in there.- Buggy...
0:13:47 > 0:13:51- Bring the buggy in through there. - Good.- Really useful.- Good space.
0:13:51 > 0:13:55'So, it's obvious they love the kitchen and the utility room
0:13:55 > 0:13:59'has gone down well, too, but there's more to come downstairs.'
0:13:59 > 0:14:05- You've got a downstairs cloakroom and shower room.- Great!- Great!
0:14:05 > 0:14:09- But here, believe it or not, this was the garage...- Oh, I see!
0:14:09 > 0:14:12- Although it doesn't feel like a garage.- No.- Right. - A nice clean garage!
0:14:12 > 0:14:16Very clean, but what do you actually think about the space,
0:14:16 > 0:14:20because again this could have the potential of being a playroom?
0:14:20 > 0:14:21- It couldn't!- Could!
0:14:22 > 0:14:26- Cos there has to be a home for your car!- Oh, right, right.
0:14:26 > 0:14:31OK, talking car, then, and being practical, because you might be able to have a playroom at the front if
0:14:31 > 0:14:37you managed to get rid of the music room, the dimensions of this room, would it fit your car in here?
0:14:37 > 0:14:40It would, yes. It's a nice space for it.
0:14:40 > 0:14:41Way too smart for a garage!
0:14:41 > 0:14:44- Yeah, I know! - It could be quite unusual!
0:14:44 > 0:14:45It is nicely done!
0:14:45 > 0:14:48The car will have its own little bedroom, so..!
0:14:48 > 0:14:52- Could this be a car showroom rather than a garage.- Exactly.
0:14:52 > 0:14:56But I'm pleased we now know where your car is going to sleep.
0:14:56 > 0:14:58Let's carry on looking round the house.
0:14:58 > 0:15:04'It all seems to be going well on the ground floor. Let's hope their enthusiasm continues upstairs.'
0:15:06 > 0:15:09This is the master bedroom.
0:15:09 > 0:15:12- Nice size. - You've got stripped floorboards.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15- Very smart.- It's a nice room, definitely a nice room.
0:15:15 > 0:15:18It is quite dark in here, because of the wardrobes,
0:15:18 > 0:15:21but the present owner is very keen for you to have a look inside,
0:15:21 > 0:15:25- because if you like storage, you'll love these. Have a quick look.- OK.
0:15:32 > 0:15:36- That's organised storage! - It's neat and tidy.
0:15:36 > 0:15:38A little bit more so than you and I!
0:15:38 > 0:15:41The great thing, if you love the cupboards for the storage aspect,
0:15:41 > 0:15:44you could actually change the doors and it will give the room
0:15:44 > 0:15:50a completely different feel, but what I really want to show you is the en-suite.
0:15:50 > 0:15:53Super! That's a lovely size!
0:15:53 > 0:15:55Nice and light and spacious.
0:15:55 > 0:15:58- That's really good.- The en-suite bathroom would work for you?
0:15:58 > 0:16:02- Yep.- It would.- The en-suite is a really nice bonus for us.
0:16:02 > 0:16:06'I knew that the master bedroom with this en-suite would hit the spot.
0:16:06 > 0:16:09'The other bedrooms on this floor aren't quite so spacious,
0:16:09 > 0:16:12'which could be a problem for their growing family.
0:16:12 > 0:16:16'There's a small double and a single, plus a first floor bathroom,
0:16:16 > 0:16:21'but then there is the bonus of a loft conversion, which could give them the extra space they need.'
0:16:21 > 0:16:23Now I know you've converted your loft at home.
0:16:23 > 0:16:28- Yes.- Like many of the properties in this area, where space is a real commodity, they've done the same.
0:16:31 > 0:16:33- Interesting!- Yeah.- Interesting.
0:16:33 > 0:16:37- Lots of options as to what this could be used for.- Yeah.
0:16:37 > 0:16:40On the details, it's a four-bedroom house.
0:16:40 > 0:16:42- With this being one of them?- Yep.
0:16:42 > 0:16:44Right.
0:16:44 > 0:16:48The stairs do take up quite a lot of the space in the middle of the room...
0:16:48 > 0:16:52- Yeah.- ..which is...interesting.
0:16:52 > 0:16:56The house does have a lot of space, depending on how you want to use it.
0:16:56 > 0:16:59- Exactly.- Let's go back down and see how much space there is
0:16:59 > 0:17:02- outside for you and whether that is going to work.- Yep.
0:17:05 > 0:17:09'I think they're starting to realise that, in Surrey, their budget
0:17:09 > 0:17:11'isn't going to match their very detailed wish list.'
0:17:14 > 0:17:16Here's your garden.
0:17:16 > 0:17:21- Good.- Is this the type of garden that you had in mind when you said you wanted a garden?
0:17:21 > 0:17:24- Definitely, exactly!- Yeah, it's lovely.- It's a good size.
0:17:24 > 0:17:26- Can you pick that up, can you hear the school?- Yeah.
0:17:26 > 0:17:30- We know there's a school close by. I know that is important.- Yes.
0:17:30 > 0:17:35Let's wander down the garden, because it's time now to think about money.
0:17:35 > 0:17:43- Right.- This property, the space, the long garden, its location to train stations and schools,
0:17:43 > 0:17:49so with all this in mind, how much do you think a house like this is on the market for?
0:17:49 > 0:17:50Who's going to go first?
0:17:50 > 0:17:56It's a tricky one in this market. but I'll go for near 700.
0:17:56 > 0:18:00But it doesn't have a garage and two of those bedrooms are quite small.
0:18:00 > 0:18:05- 630.- 630... Just under 700.
0:18:05 > 0:18:07This house has just recently gone on the market,
0:18:07 > 0:18:13it's been on for about two months and the asking price is £595,000.
0:18:13 > 0:18:19- OK.- Right. I'm surprised. I thought it would be over 600, definitely.
0:18:19 > 0:18:23- Thinking about that price, do you want to go and have another look? - Yes.- Sure.
0:18:23 > 0:18:26- I'll leave you to it and catch up with you in a minute.- Great, OK.
0:18:27 > 0:18:32At just £50 shy of £600,000, this four-bedroom 1920s house
0:18:32 > 0:18:35has the big kitchen/diner Jules wants and a study,
0:18:35 > 0:18:39plus lots of living space downstairs and the 120-foot garden
0:18:39 > 0:18:43is great for the kids, but being less than a 40-minute
0:18:43 > 0:18:45commute into London, it comes at a price.
0:18:45 > 0:18:49The first thing I noticed is it is semi-detached, which I'm open to,
0:18:49 > 0:18:54that's OK, but I did notice that there wasn't a garage, which might be a problem, but overall,
0:18:54 > 0:19:02nice, light, bright downstairs, nice kitchen/diner, that's been done very well. Can you imagine us in here?
0:19:02 > 0:19:09Yeah, definitely. It's a nice, easy to use family kitchen/diner, definitely. Very nice.
0:19:09 > 0:19:14My impressions of the house are generally favourable, particularly with regards to the downstairs.
0:19:14 > 0:19:16It gets less favourable as we go upstairs.
0:19:16 > 0:19:20The two children's rooms are definitely on the small side,
0:19:20 > 0:19:23particularly one of them is very small, unfortunately.
0:19:23 > 0:19:29We'd need, I mean the very least you'd need is a single bed and a wardrobe.
0:19:29 > 0:19:35The garden is definitely a plus point and the general living space downstairs is a plus point, so
0:19:35 > 0:19:41definitely not ruling it out, but a few things to think about before I'd be convinced about this one.
0:19:43 > 0:19:45Had a good second look around?
0:19:45 > 0:19:48- Yes, thanks.- We have. - Let's get going.
0:19:50 > 0:19:54Although Surrey is right on Jules and Chris' doorstep,
0:19:54 > 0:19:57they still haven't properly explored the area.
0:19:57 > 0:19:59So a good place to start is Godalming.
0:19:59 > 0:20:03It's a lovely old market town with a rich trading history.
0:20:03 > 0:20:07And in 1881 it was made famous by becoming the first town in the world
0:20:07 > 0:20:10to have electric public street lighting.
0:20:10 > 0:20:14The town has a busy high street littered with ancient historical buildings,
0:20:14 > 0:20:17great eateries and plenty of shops to choose from.
0:20:17 > 0:20:22And a trip to nearby Clandon Park the 18th century stately home
0:20:22 > 0:20:26build by Venetian architect Giacomo Leoni is a must.
0:20:26 > 0:20:31The highlight is this magnificent two-story marble entrance hall.
0:20:31 > 0:20:34- Huge!- It's a big space, yeah.
0:20:34 > 0:20:38It really is an architectural triumph and considered one of
0:20:38 > 0:20:41the most important 18th century rooms in England -
0:20:41 > 0:20:44as are the magnificent plasterwork ceilings.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47It was even the location for the recent film The Duchess.
0:20:47 > 0:20:49I hope they're not getting ideas of grandeur!
0:20:49 > 0:20:54Amazing house but I hope they find us somewhere bigger for what we're looking for.
0:20:54 > 0:20:56Yeah, I was quite happy with the size.
0:20:56 > 0:20:59There's plenty more on offer in this area too,
0:20:59 > 0:21:03including Painshill Park set within 160 acres.
0:21:03 > 0:21:06This is one of the finest 18th century landscape parks in Europe.
0:21:06 > 0:21:08a great potential day out with the family.
0:21:08 > 0:21:12Great to see these interesting things that Surry has to offer.
0:21:12 > 0:21:16- It's been fantastic. - Yeah, be good to bring Harry back
0:21:16 > 0:21:20- to see some of them as well. - Definitely, he'd have a lot of fun.
0:21:27 > 0:21:32The next house I want to show Chris and Jules is located outside Cobham,
0:21:32 > 0:21:35the only property I'll be showing them within the M25.
0:21:36 > 0:21:41The house is in between Cobham and Oxshot where there are a few shops and a pub.
0:21:41 > 0:21:45This really is a popular area for young families
0:21:45 > 0:21:47with a wealth of great primary schools.
0:21:49 > 0:21:52And although it's only a 40 minute commute into London,
0:21:52 > 0:21:55it still feels like you're out in the country.
0:21:57 > 0:22:03How would you both feel if I told you this walkway could be part of your daily commute?
0:22:03 > 0:22:06- That'd be good. - A nice start to the day.
0:22:06 > 0:22:08Very nice start to the day.
0:22:08 > 0:22:12On one side we have Cobham, but on the other side is Oxshot.
0:22:12 > 0:22:15That station is literally a ten minute walk.
0:22:15 > 0:22:18So this could be where you start your commute into London.
0:22:18 > 0:22:20- It'd be lovely.- Fancy that? - Yep.- Excellent.
0:22:20 > 0:22:25- Now I'm going to show you the house which is just around the corner. - Great.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29So this is your property.
0:22:29 > 0:22:32- OK.- Built in the 1970s,
0:22:32 > 0:22:36- it's been extended to one side by the current owners.- Right.
0:22:36 > 0:22:40And the potential to extend again but I'll explain a little about that later.
0:22:40 > 0:22:44- Right.- It's a tidy-looking house. - Yeah.
0:22:44 > 0:22:47- It's a bit too tidy!- A bit too tidy.
0:22:47 > 0:22:49- Which bit's missing? - That bit and that bit!
0:22:49 > 0:22:54That is the extension. Your eagle eyes have spotted it straight away.
0:22:54 > 0:23:01And the owners have had planning permission three times to do an extension above the double garage.
0:23:01 > 0:23:07It has lapsed but the fact they've had it three times means I'm sure you'd be able to get it again.
0:23:07 > 0:23:10But Chris, I thought you were going to mention the double garage.
0:23:10 > 0:23:14- There is which is...- Bonus. Potentially a plus point.
0:23:14 > 0:23:17- Ready to go and have a little look inside?- I think so.- OK.
0:23:22 > 0:23:24So come on in.
0:23:26 > 0:23:28- Thank you.- Here we have the hallway.
0:23:28 > 0:23:30Let me take you through into the kitchen.
0:23:31 > 0:23:35- OK.- What are you thinking, Jules? - Bijou.
0:23:35 > 0:23:37Bijou? I like that.
0:23:37 > 0:23:44The owners have extended. They use that as their dining area and it adds more natural light.
0:23:44 > 0:23:48What do you think of the room's size for you, for your growing family?
0:23:48 > 0:23:51- Yeah...- It's a fair size.
0:23:51 > 0:23:54- A bit on the small side. - But a bit on the small side.
0:23:54 > 0:23:58Yeah, it clearly has everything you need, it's well put together,
0:23:58 > 0:24:00um...
0:24:00 > 0:24:03But it's not wowing me.
0:24:03 > 0:24:05It's pretty standard. It does the job.
0:24:05 > 0:24:08But I don't walk in and go, "Wow, that's an amazing kitchen!"
0:24:08 > 0:24:13Let me take you through to the rest of the house and there might be a solution.
0:24:13 > 0:24:18'I'm surprised. I think this state-of-the-art kitchen has been finished to a very high standard.
0:24:18 > 0:24:21'The next room is just as stunning.'
0:24:21 > 0:24:24- This is the main sitting room. - OK.
0:24:24 > 0:24:27A fair size.
0:24:27 > 0:24:31- It's nice.- What do you think about this as your sitting/drawing room?
0:24:31 > 0:24:33- It's very tidy.- It is.
0:24:33 > 0:24:37It's got a little bit of character. It's a nice size.
0:24:37 > 0:24:40But just through here is a second reception room...
0:24:44 > 0:24:46- ..which again is a good size. - Yeah.
0:24:46 > 0:24:53I like the oak flooring through the downstairs. Nice and light and practical.
0:24:53 > 0:24:57It's a nice room. It's more peaceful and quiet.
0:24:57 > 0:25:02It could be a sitting room, it could be an office.
0:25:02 > 0:25:04You've got a lovely view of the garden.
0:25:04 > 0:25:09But the other thing I was thinking of was, as this is the original extension,
0:25:09 > 0:25:13you could knock through and make this into a dining room,
0:25:13 > 0:25:17and change that into a playroom/kitchen.
0:25:17 > 0:25:19- That would be a much better solution for us.- Hm.
0:25:19 > 0:25:24This house has lots of scope for Chris and Jules to really put their mark on it.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27And upstairs I have another plan.
0:25:27 > 0:25:31It's a four-bedroom property but if you look through that window
0:25:31 > 0:25:34- that's where you can extend. - Right.- OK.
0:25:34 > 0:25:38Big bedroom, en-suite. Hobby room, play area.
0:25:38 > 0:25:41The cost for an extension - just the build cost -
0:25:41 > 0:25:43- would be around 30-£40,000.- OK.
0:25:43 > 0:25:45It gives you something to think about.
0:25:45 > 0:25:47Through here is the first bedroom.
0:25:48 > 0:25:50One of the smaller ones.
0:25:50 > 0:25:53So, would this be big enough for a little one?
0:25:53 > 0:25:55Perfect size for a baby's room, yes.
0:25:55 > 0:25:59Um, I think over time it will get a bit small.
0:25:59 > 0:26:03But, like you say, over time you could expand the house a bit.
0:26:03 > 0:26:07Boys' den, girls' play area. Got to keep it neutral, haven't we?
0:26:07 > 0:26:09And this is the master bedroom.
0:26:09 > 0:26:11OK.
0:26:13 > 0:26:16Not a lot of comment from either of you!
0:26:16 > 0:26:19- Small.- Compact.
0:26:19 > 0:26:21Would this be a little bit too small for you?
0:26:21 > 0:26:23I think so.
0:26:23 > 0:26:27As the master, it feels like we need a bit more space.
0:26:27 > 0:26:29Yeah.
0:26:29 > 0:26:34This is the sort of size I'd like to get in two of our three other bedrooms.
0:26:35 > 0:26:38'OK, so the master bedroom isn't huge but have said
0:26:38 > 0:26:41'they'd be open to compromise, it seems they're struggling to see
0:26:41 > 0:26:43'how they can make this house work for them.
0:26:43 > 0:26:47'This nicely decorated double bedroom could be a great guest room.
0:26:47 > 0:26:51'There's also a single which should be big enough for Harry.
0:26:51 > 0:26:53'The family bathroom may be on the small side
0:26:53 > 0:26:55'but it's perfectly functional.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58'Time to head out and see what they make of the garden.'
0:26:59 > 0:27:01- So, here's the garden.- OK.
0:27:01 > 0:27:04Big patio, nice dining area.
0:27:04 > 0:27:07Probably quite a manageable garden, I'd think.
0:27:07 > 0:27:10I think it would be manageable for me.
0:27:10 > 0:27:13I like the way it's nicely contained.
0:27:13 > 0:27:18High trees and hedges around for privacy which is good.
0:27:18 > 0:27:20Let's wander down.
0:27:20 > 0:27:23We know you're close to the station.
0:27:23 > 0:27:27But just behind those trees is the railway line.
0:27:27 > 0:27:32That is close but presumably that gets reflected in the price
0:27:32 > 0:27:36which maybe brings something in this area into our price bracket.
0:27:36 > 0:27:41Bearing that in mind, how much do you think this property is currently on the market for?
0:27:41 > 0:27:46I would say it's on at 675.
0:27:46 > 0:27:50- Chris?- I think £650,000.
0:27:50 > 0:27:54OK, I know you had a little flexibility in your budget.
0:27:54 > 0:27:57This would stretch is somewhat.
0:27:57 > 0:28:03The asking price is £699,950.
0:28:03 > 0:28:05- OK.- Right.
0:28:05 > 0:28:08Top of the budget. Would want to build.
0:28:08 > 0:28:11- Seems a lot.- Yeah.
0:28:11 > 0:28:13It is in a very very good area.
0:28:13 > 0:28:15Why don't you go and have one last look around.
0:28:15 > 0:28:19- I'll catch up with you in a minute. - Great.- OK.
0:28:21 > 0:28:24Proximity to London and some excellent primary schools
0:28:24 > 0:28:28means this house ticks two very big boxes for them
0:28:28 > 0:28:30but that comes with an equally big price tag.
0:28:30 > 0:28:32At just under £700,000
0:28:32 > 0:28:35this house is right at the very top of what they could stretch to.
0:28:35 > 0:28:39It has four bedrooms, a good kitchen/diner,
0:28:39 > 0:28:44plus two large reception rooms. and that double garage for Chris.
0:28:45 > 0:28:50This house is an immaculate house which is very appealing.
0:28:50 > 0:28:53It ticks many of the boxes in terms of what we're after -
0:28:53 > 0:28:57four bedrooms, double garage, a nice garden.
0:28:57 > 0:28:59It's very nicely done, nicely laid out.
0:28:59 > 0:29:05But looking beyond that I'm not convinced it's got the living space we need.
0:29:05 > 0:29:11What's really not working for me in this house is the size of the bedrooms.
0:29:11 > 0:29:16I think the thing that's not quite doing it for me is the character.
0:29:16 > 0:29:20And possibly the ability to put our true mark on it.
0:29:20 > 0:29:22- So, have you seen enough? - Yes.
0:29:22 > 0:29:26The day is getting on and you need to take the weight off your feet.
0:29:26 > 0:29:28Thanks, Nicki. How about you, Jules?!
0:29:28 > 0:29:30She needs to sit down.
0:29:37 > 0:29:41'But it's not time to call it a day, yet!
0:29:41 > 0:29:44'I have a treat in store for them.
0:29:44 > 0:29:49'Chris is a keen motor-sport enthusiast and enjoys nothing more than a spin in his sports car,
0:29:49 > 0:29:54'so the birthplace of British motor sport seems the ideal place to get him onto the tracks.'
0:29:55 > 0:30:01Guys, great to meet you, because I know you're very heavily involved with the museum here at Brooklands.
0:30:01 > 0:30:04Has racing always been your passion?
0:30:04 > 0:30:07Yeah, cars, definitely, right from this high.
0:30:07 > 0:30:10Chris, how old were you when you got into motor racing?
0:30:10 > 0:30:13I think I was a very small boy when I started enjoying cars,
0:30:13 > 0:30:15but into motor racing, I was 30 or so.
0:30:15 > 0:30:19So, fantastic cars, guys. Do you get out onto the roads around Surrey?
0:30:19 > 0:30:21Are there some decent roads to drive the cars on?
0:30:21 > 0:30:23Yeah, it's pretty good, all round here
0:30:23 > 0:30:27and we do quite a few little rallies and treasure hunts and things,
0:30:27 > 0:30:32- runs down to Goodwood, revivals and that sort of event.- Do you fancy going out in one of the cars?
0:30:32 > 0:30:34- I think so!- I can't wait!
0:30:34 > 0:30:37- I can't, either! I'm going to start in the Tiger.- Are you?
0:30:37 > 0:30:42- I'm going to the Austin Healey. Jules?- I'll go for the MG. - Let's get going.- Great.
0:31:05 > 0:31:08'When Brooklands Motor Course opened in the summer of 1907,
0:31:08 > 0:31:12'it was the world's first purpose-built motor racing course.
0:31:12 > 0:31:16'Ever since, the British has had a love affair with motor racing and it's now one of the top
0:31:16 > 0:31:21'five most-watched sporting events in the world - and it's easy to see why!'
0:31:21 > 0:31:26This has to be the most exhilarating drive ever!
0:31:26 > 0:31:31'Back in those days, the fastest cars travelled at speeds of over 140 mph...
0:31:31 > 0:31:34'a bit faster than us today!'
0:31:48 > 0:31:52That was tremendous - the first time I've been in a classic car.
0:31:52 > 0:31:55- I think I'm hooked! You loved it, did you?- I did.
0:31:55 > 0:31:58- How was the bump?- Bump's still there, thank goodness.
0:31:58 > 0:32:00- Not too bumpy?- No, fine.
0:32:00 > 0:32:03- What about you, Chris? - It was great.
0:32:03 > 0:32:07To be here, part of British history and some great British sports cars.
0:32:07 > 0:32:11- Fantastic.- Guys, thank you so much for today. We're really grateful.
0:32:11 > 0:32:13We've had the most amazing time.
0:32:13 > 0:32:16- We've enjoyed it, haven't we? - Yes.- So have we.
0:32:16 > 0:32:20If you need another passenger, I'm more than happy!
0:32:21 > 0:32:24'As the day draws to a close,
0:32:24 > 0:32:29'Chris and Jules take some time out to reflect on the properties they've seen so far.'
0:32:32 > 0:32:34It's been an interesting day today.
0:32:34 > 0:32:40The first property, the semi-detached in West Horsley. What was your view on that one?
0:32:40 > 0:32:42I really liked that property's location.
0:32:42 > 0:32:46The close proximity to the schools is really appealing.
0:32:46 > 0:32:49- It has a really nice garden. - A lovely garden.
0:32:49 > 0:32:52It seemed bigger than it was because it was interesting.
0:32:52 > 0:32:56Nice living arrangement downstairs.
0:32:56 > 0:32:59You felt like you were getting quite a lot of options.
0:32:59 > 0:33:04- But upstairs, maybe not quite there with the bedroom size.- Yeah.
0:33:04 > 0:33:06- But it's something we could work with.- Yes.
0:33:06 > 0:33:10I think overall it's definitely worth keeping in mind.
0:33:10 > 0:33:15How about the second property - the detached in Cobham?
0:33:15 > 0:33:17It has four bedrooms, it was very nicely done.
0:33:17 > 0:33:20We wouldn't have to do any work on that property.
0:33:20 > 0:33:25For me, it lacked a bit of character that I'm looking for.
0:33:25 > 0:33:28Yeah, I really like the rooms looking onto the garden.
0:33:28 > 0:33:33But the kitchen/diner... And the size of the bedrooms.
0:33:33 > 0:33:37It's something we're going to have to compromise on.
0:33:37 > 0:33:42Tomorrow, two more properties. Are you excited about what they might be?
0:33:42 > 0:33:45- Yeah.- Including the Mystery Property.- Yes, I know.
0:33:45 > 0:33:48Mind open and see what comes up!
0:34:02 > 0:34:05'Chris and Jules from Wimbledon want to swap their four-bedroom terrace
0:34:05 > 0:34:12'for a large family home in Surrey and have £600,000-£700,000 to spend.
0:34:12 > 0:34:16'So far, they've viewed two house and we have more to entice them.'
0:34:17 > 0:34:21Can you imagine yourself here at the weekends, relaxing?
0:34:21 > 0:34:24Can't you tell? Yep!
0:34:24 > 0:34:30'And today's Mystery House doesn't really go according to plan.'
0:34:30 > 0:34:32- It does look interesting.- Yeah?
0:34:32 > 0:34:34- Oh, yes!- You want character? - It's got it!
0:34:37 > 0:34:40I thought yesterday started off quite well.
0:34:40 > 0:34:44But by the afternoon reality had begun to kick in for Jules and Chris.
0:34:44 > 0:34:48The truth is they don't have enough money for what they want to buy.
0:34:48 > 0:34:51They're going to have to make some pretty tough decisions.
0:34:51 > 0:34:54They started off saying location was the priority.
0:34:54 > 0:34:57Today, I'm going to show them a truly rural property
0:34:57 > 0:35:03that hopefully will make them consider putting both wellies firmly in the countryside.
0:35:03 > 0:35:07And there's plenty of countryside at our next property,
0:35:07 > 0:35:10located in the beautiful village of Shackleford,
0:35:10 > 0:35:12four miles from Godalming.
0:35:12 > 0:35:16Furthest away from London, this traditional village, with Post Office, local shop
0:35:16 > 0:35:20and the essential pub, is blessed with very good primary schools
0:35:20 > 0:35:23and, topping it all, St Mary's Church,
0:35:23 > 0:35:28designed by Sir George Gilbert-Scott, who also designed London's St Pancras Station.
0:35:28 > 0:35:31So the house itself is actually semi-detached.
0:35:31 > 0:35:34It doesn't look like a semi. I'm surprised.
0:35:34 > 0:35:39- Yeah, cos my first impression was that it was the whole house. - Have I disappointed you?
0:35:39 > 0:35:42I thought that was the front door, but clearly that's the other house.
0:35:42 > 0:35:47- That is the other house, because the front door for you would be at the side here.- Right.- OK.
0:35:47 > 0:35:50- But now let's take a look inside the house.- Great.
0:35:50 > 0:35:55'Again, Chris and Jules are wanting more for their money, making our job here very difficult.
0:35:55 > 0:35:58'I want to get straight in to show them the best room in the house.
0:35:58 > 0:36:04'The decor in the downstairs living space has been kept neutral and the pale complementary colours
0:36:04 > 0:36:07'really work well together to enhance the whole space.'
0:36:07 > 0:36:11Now, I adore this room, but it's really what you think.
0:36:11 > 0:36:13It's beautiful, really beautiful!
0:36:13 > 0:36:17It is very nicely done, very nicely decorated and very light.
0:36:17 > 0:36:20- Immaculate.- Isn't it? It's a dream! - I wouldn't have to lift a finger!
0:36:20 > 0:36:22No, not in here.
0:36:22 > 0:36:24Great. Let's carry on looking.
0:36:26 > 0:36:30- So, this is the second reception room.- Right.
0:36:30 > 0:36:35Currently being used as a formal dining room, but that might not suit your needs.
0:36:35 > 0:36:39Could have the potential perhaps of a playroom, an office?
0:36:39 > 0:36:43- Absolutely!- And you haven't seen the rest of the house, yet.- No.
0:36:43 > 0:36:47But you can see the sort of dimensions of the rooms and what you've got to play with.
0:36:47 > 0:36:50Really nice dimensions, nice high ceilings,
0:36:50 > 0:36:54big rooms. Really nice.
0:36:54 > 0:36:55'So far, so good.
0:36:55 > 0:36:58'Could this tastefully-decorated stylish house
0:36:58 > 0:37:03'with its muted colour schemes and original features be beginning to sway them?'
0:37:03 > 0:37:06Now you want a kitchen/diner.
0:37:06 > 0:37:09How is this for a kitchen/diner?
0:37:09 > 0:37:12It's lovely! I can't see a table. Is there a table round the corner?
0:37:12 > 0:37:16Aah! I'm going to take you down, but yes, I'll let you know that
0:37:16 > 0:37:20straightaway, because that's the extension on the back of the house,
0:37:20 > 0:37:22- but as a kitchen goes... - It's gorgeous.
0:37:22 > 0:37:24- It is. Very smart.- Really light.
0:37:26 > 0:37:33Beautifully done again, like the rest of the house, and something we particularly like is the
0:37:33 > 0:37:39French doors from the kitchen/diner onto the garden which they've got, so yeah, it's fabulous.
0:37:39 > 0:37:44- Because of the size of the kitchen, you've actually got sort of a living space here.- Lovely.
0:37:44 > 0:37:49Which works really, really well, and then you do have room for a table.
0:37:49 > 0:37:54It seats four, but you could get a much larger table in there and it's got under-floor heating.
0:37:54 > 0:37:56- Yes.- It does feel warm. - Feels like that.
0:37:56 > 0:37:58So, this would work for you?
0:37:58 > 0:38:01You can imagine yourself here at the weekends, relaxing?
0:38:01 > 0:38:04Can't you tell! Yep!
0:38:04 > 0:38:08'It looks like we may well be onto a winner here.
0:38:08 > 0:38:12'Off the kitchen there's the utility room Jules wants.
0:38:12 > 0:38:14'I'm crossing my fingers they'll love upstairs, too.
0:38:14 > 0:38:16'Let's go to the master bedroom.'
0:38:16 > 0:38:18So, come on through, guys.
0:38:20 > 0:38:25Looking out straight into the country, you've got all the meadows and the fields.
0:38:25 > 0:38:27That's a really nice view.
0:38:27 > 0:38:28Yeah, that's very good.
0:38:28 > 0:38:30And a good size room, I think.
0:38:30 > 0:38:31- Yep.- I think so.
0:38:31 > 0:38:34- It all works for you in this room? - Positive.
0:38:34 > 0:38:39- It is all positive and it continues to be positive, because just through here...- An en-suite!
0:38:39 > 0:38:42..there's an en-suite, so have a little look.
0:38:43 > 0:38:48- Perfect!- So, not the biggest of bathrooms, but works perfectly.
0:38:48 > 0:38:51So, this is quite a good working bedroom for you?
0:38:51 > 0:38:58- It is.- It's got a nice feel. It feels quite cosy, it's not incredibly large, but it's the right size.
0:38:58 > 0:39:02'Despite this house having a reasonably-sized master and en-suite,
0:39:02 > 0:39:08'and a great finish throughout, it seems Chris and Jules are still not as compromising as they need to be.'
0:39:09 > 0:39:14This is actually the smallest of the doubles, but it's still a fair size.
0:39:14 > 0:39:15- Yeah.- Yep.
0:39:15 > 0:39:19I guess we'd put a single in it, because it will be a child's room.
0:39:19 > 0:39:22Single and a desk, like they've got here, so that would work.
0:39:22 > 0:39:23- Yeah.- That's a nice space.
0:39:23 > 0:39:28So it's great that the bedrooms are working for us, but we've still got more to see.
0:39:28 > 0:39:33'There's lots of space here to accommodate their growing family and even some guests.
0:39:33 > 0:39:37'On this floor there's a third bedroom and a family bathroom
0:39:37 > 0:39:40'and there's a fourth bedroom up in the loft conversion.
0:39:40 > 0:39:42'Let's hope the garden comes up trumps, too.'
0:39:42 > 0:39:44So, here's the garden.
0:39:44 > 0:39:52- Lovely!- 120-foot. You've got cornfields right at the back, so nothing is obscuring that view.
0:39:52 > 0:39:56That's good, it's a good size and it's interesting.
0:39:56 > 0:40:00- You've got your garage just there, for the beloved car.- That's good.
0:40:00 > 0:40:04- But just standing here, you so feel like you're in the country.- Absolutely!
0:40:04 > 0:40:08But at what price is this peace and quiet, that's the question?
0:40:08 > 0:40:13- Let's take a wander up the garden, where you can have a think for price.- OK.
0:40:13 > 0:40:16'I wonder if they'll be able to take all the great features and the
0:40:16 > 0:40:20'amazing potential of this house into consideration when guessing.'
0:40:20 > 0:40:23- Who am I going to start with? Chris. - Why not!
0:40:23 > 0:40:26I'm gonna start with you. How much is this property on the market for?
0:40:26 > 0:40:31I think I'm going to go with £550,000.
0:40:31 > 0:40:33OK.
0:40:33 > 0:40:39I'm playing poker here, not giving anything away, because you're looking at me intensely!
0:40:39 > 0:40:45- Jules?- I'm going to think it's quite a bit higher than Chris's, so I'll go for 650... £650,000.
0:40:45 > 0:40:47Substantially higher than yours?
0:40:47 > 0:40:49- Mmm.- OK.- Interesting!
0:40:49 > 0:40:54This house...you're really going to be interested in this bit!
0:40:54 > 0:41:00- This house is on the market for £695,000.- Right.
0:41:00 > 0:41:02Why don't you go and have another look.
0:41:02 > 0:41:07It is at the very, very top of your budget, but as you said, it has been beautifully done.
0:41:07 > 0:41:11Should you move in, you wouldn't need to do anything else, so lots of things to bear in mind,
0:41:11 > 0:41:16- but go and enjoy that house for the final time and I'll catch up with you in a minute.- Thanks.
0:41:16 > 0:41:20So, the prime location of this lovely rural semi means that it is
0:41:20 > 0:41:24over-budget, but they were keen to see higher-priced properties.
0:41:24 > 0:41:28They know it's a buyers' market and that vendors may well accept offers,
0:41:28 > 0:41:32so £695,000 would get them four bedrooms,
0:41:32 > 0:41:35a beautiful interior-designed living space,
0:41:35 > 0:41:38stunning views and good nearby schools.
0:41:38 > 0:41:41First impressions of the house were that it looks like
0:41:41 > 0:41:47a fabulous large house, but then I guess there was slight confusion and disappointment realising actually
0:41:47 > 0:41:49it was only half of the house - semi-detached.
0:41:49 > 0:41:52This house is absolutely beautiful.
0:41:52 > 0:41:55Nothing needs doing to it, but I have a big but.
0:41:55 > 0:42:03I think for me, I could consider buying this house with my heart, but not with my head.
0:42:03 > 0:42:08- Some good-sized bedrooms, apart from the loft.- Low ceiling.- A little bit.
0:42:08 > 0:42:10For you! It's all right for me!
0:42:10 > 0:42:13Smaller than, I think, maybe we'd hoped for.
0:42:13 > 0:42:20It's not practical enough for a family. It's not close enough to the schools that I'm interested in.
0:42:20 > 0:42:25There isn't like a big living area, although the kitchen/diner again is nice.
0:42:25 > 0:42:27Really nice kitchen.
0:42:27 > 0:42:30It is, they've done it very well.
0:42:30 > 0:42:32- It's beautiful! - Yeah, fantastic space.
0:42:32 > 0:42:36It isn't as big as our current kitchen/diner, though.
0:42:36 > 0:42:38Right, guys, are you ready to hit the road?
0:42:38 > 0:42:40- Yeah.- We are.- Excellent!
0:42:44 > 0:42:48'One of the key things Jules and Chris want to do when they move down
0:42:48 > 0:42:52'to Surrey is walking and picnicking, so with that in mind,
0:42:52 > 0:42:57they've stopped off at Hambledon, where you can go walking with a rather unusual companion!
0:42:57 > 0:43:02'It's the only place of its kind in Surrey and Julie and Colin Stonely have been running it for
0:43:02 > 0:43:07'the past five years and have seen a huge rise in the popularity of these child-friendly creatures.'
0:43:07 > 0:43:09These llamas are amazing!
0:43:09 > 0:43:11What do you guys do here?
0:43:11 > 0:43:18Well, we do llama trekking in the Surrey Hills here, in the countryside, and we take
0:43:18 > 0:43:23lots of people out on picnic treks, so you go out and have a walk and
0:43:23 > 0:43:25see this stunning scenery.
0:43:25 > 0:43:31'Llama trekking is no longer the preserve of herdsmen in the Andes.
0:43:31 > 0:43:34'They're the perfect companion for an English country walk.
0:43:34 > 0:43:38'Unlike their cousin, the camel, their backbone is not built for
0:43:38 > 0:43:41'riding, though, so it's you who has to take them for a stroll.
0:43:41 > 0:43:48'Llamas are ideal ramblers, as they don't have hooves like horses or cattle, so it takes them far longer
0:43:48 > 0:43:52'to wear down a path, causing much less damage to the environment.'
0:43:52 > 0:43:55What is it we can see in the view from here?
0:43:55 > 0:44:02We're actually in the Surrey Hills, as you know, and from here you can see right across to the Hogs Back.
0:44:02 > 0:44:06Part of the path we've been walking on forms part of the Green Sandway
0:44:06 > 0:44:12and people come from all over the world almost to walk this path. It's really beautiful.
0:44:12 > 0:44:15It's been fantastic. We've had a really good time.
0:44:15 > 0:44:20- Great to meet the llamas, to see the view, so thank you very much for that.- Thanks very much.
0:44:27 > 0:44:29So is there anything you really, really don't
0:44:29 > 0:44:33want to see because we're nearly at the mystery property?
0:44:33 > 0:44:35- OK.- A Jacuzzi or a sauna!
0:44:35 > 0:44:40No, we don't need those things - right now!
0:44:40 > 0:44:47- Anything else?- Something that doesn't have any character, something just over one storey.- Yup.
0:44:48 > 0:44:51But otherwise, I think we're pretty open to this mystery property.
0:44:51 > 0:44:52That's good!
0:44:58 > 0:45:00The mystery property is in Ottershaw,
0:45:00 > 0:45:03which is just under 30 miles from London.
0:45:03 > 0:45:05Woking Train Station is just four miles away.
0:45:05 > 0:45:10You can be in London Waterloo in 23 minutes and trains run every five minutes.
0:45:10 > 0:45:13That combined with the great OFTED-rated schools and nurseries
0:45:13 > 0:45:16make this village incredibly popular.
0:45:16 > 0:45:20The house itself is a converted Victorian chapel, which has been
0:45:20 > 0:45:24turned into a family home, but what will they make of it?
0:45:24 > 0:45:25Looks interesting.
0:45:25 > 0:45:26- Oh, yes!- You want character?!
0:45:26 > 0:45:32- Yes, it's got character!- It's actually semi-detached, which seems to be a theme for us, doesn't it?
0:45:32 > 0:45:36- Ready to go in and have a little look?- Yep.- Definitely! - Open minds?- Yep!
0:45:36 > 0:45:41- That's what the mystery property is all about - an open mind, thinking out of the box.- Sure.
0:45:41 > 0:45:44'Church conversions are renowned for being tricky and
0:45:44 > 0:45:50'this property is a bit of a gamble, but I want to open Chris and Jules's eyes as to what they can do with
0:45:50 > 0:45:57'this interesting space and with its great schools nearby, there is a good reason for bringing them here.'
0:45:57 > 0:45:59So, how is this for an entrance?
0:45:59 > 0:46:01It's impressive! Very impressive!
0:46:01 > 0:46:07- Beautiful, isn't it!- Beautiful, absolutely beautiful. I mean there's porches and there's porches!
0:46:07 > 0:46:10- Yes! This is quite something! - That's superb!- Let's go through.
0:46:10 > 0:46:13This is the main reception area.
0:46:13 > 0:46:18- Right.- You've got the beautiful glass windows with that coming down.
0:46:18 > 0:46:21That's fantastic, having all this space up there.
0:46:21 > 0:46:24It really creates a sense of scale and space in here.
0:46:24 > 0:46:28'After the last house, Chris had said he wanted a large open-plan
0:46:28 > 0:46:32'living space and this house offers great potential for that.
0:46:32 > 0:46:36'The ground floor, with its two striking polished granite and marble columns,
0:46:36 > 0:46:40'has partition walls, which could be knocked through.'
0:46:40 > 0:46:44So, as you can see from there, if you took out that wall, you could
0:46:44 > 0:46:49have the whole of this lower ground part as a open living space.
0:46:49 > 0:46:52Opening it up would be a good thing to do.
0:46:52 > 0:46:55'This really is a very unique property.
0:46:55 > 0:46:59'It might not be for everyone, but there are lots of striking original features,
0:46:59 > 0:47:04'from the lovely limestone and slate floors, to the gorgeous Gothic-shaped leaded windows.
0:47:04 > 0:47:09'Next door, in the large extension, is this beautifully restored enormous dining room,
0:47:09 > 0:47:11'which makes the most of the original features.
0:47:11 > 0:47:14'It joins on to the exterior wall of the chapel,
0:47:14 > 0:47:18'retaining its lovely exposed stone and beautiful church windows.
0:47:18 > 0:47:22'It leads onto the kitchen, which has rustic hand-made cupboards.'
0:47:22 > 0:47:26- So this part of the property was only extended about four or five years ago.- Right.
0:47:26 > 0:47:29And it's a very rustic kitchen.
0:47:29 > 0:47:34- It is.- It's very country. So would this type of kitchen work for you?
0:47:34 > 0:47:36It's a nice size.
0:47:36 > 0:47:38Um...dining table in it.
0:47:38 > 0:47:43Um, it's not what I'm looking for in a kitchen or kitchen/diner.
0:47:43 > 0:47:44It is lovely,
0:47:44 > 0:47:46but it's not for me.
0:47:46 > 0:47:52'So this uniquely-converted chapel was a bit of a red herring to see whether characterful and quirky
0:47:52 > 0:47:58'might marry with the family living space they want, but it looks like it's not quite working for them.
0:47:58 > 0:48:03'Upstairs there are three bedrooms which are equally quirky and have been unusually renovated.'
0:48:03 > 0:48:05So, this is the first of them.
0:48:05 > 0:48:11- OK.- And there's quite a clever use of space, because they've used that as their dressing area.
0:48:11 > 0:48:13- Do you want to go and have a little look?- Yes.
0:48:13 > 0:48:16You're going to do just fine. Chris?
0:48:16 > 0:48:20- I might need to...- I'm a little bit worried about you!- ..bend down.
0:48:20 > 0:48:23They've made the most of the space, putting in these cupboards.
0:48:23 > 0:48:30- This is nicely done.- I'm not sure how practical it is to do the limbo back and forth every morning!- No.
0:48:30 > 0:48:33That's interesting. I would definitely hit my head!
0:48:33 > 0:48:38- You're gonna win the limbo-dancing competition just to get through! - Have you seen me do that?
0:48:38 > 0:48:41But it's a great use of space. You don't want to get rid of
0:48:41 > 0:48:44- this feature and you can't get rid of this feature.- You couldn't.
0:48:44 > 0:48:49- They're trying to think of quirky ways to work around it. - It's definitely different!
0:48:49 > 0:48:55- Yeah, the house is different. - But it's a nice, spacious bedroom, with plenty of light.
0:48:55 > 0:48:58It might only have three bedrooms, but there is some good news.
0:48:58 > 0:49:01It has three bathrooms, this is the first.
0:49:01 > 0:49:03Very nicely done.
0:49:03 > 0:49:05Nicely done.
0:49:05 > 0:49:07- Interesting.- I love it! Interesting!
0:49:07 > 0:49:11- Shall we keep continuing the interesting tour of the house? - Let's do that!- OK.
0:49:11 > 0:49:15'The second bedroom although a bit on the small side, is nice and bright.
0:49:15 > 0:49:18'Again, original features like the brick arch take centre-stage.
0:49:18 > 0:49:21'This bedroom also has its own en-suite.
0:49:21 > 0:49:23'The third bedroom is on the next level.'
0:49:23 > 0:49:27So, up these stairs leads us with a cupboard here
0:49:27 > 0:49:31into the third bedroom, again with its own bathroom.
0:49:31 > 0:49:37- All right.- As you can see, they've utilised every little bit of space in this property, but if you moved
0:49:37 > 0:49:43the bed say to the middle of the room and extended the steps over, you'd have a lot more space here.
0:49:43 > 0:49:46- Again, there's potential.- Yeah.
0:49:46 > 0:49:50But again it just might be a bit too much that you would have to do to make it right.
0:49:50 > 0:49:54It's a very individual property, so let's go and discuss
0:49:54 > 0:49:58how much a property like this is currently on the market for.
0:49:58 > 0:49:59Thank you.
0:50:05 > 0:50:10And here's the secluded courtyard, but if you look how much stuff they've got in here,
0:50:10 > 0:50:14all the pots and plants, it is actually quite a big space, unusual with a chapel.
0:50:14 > 0:50:21You don't normally get a garden at the side, but how much do you think this is on the market for?
0:50:21 > 0:50:23I think it will be
0:50:23 > 0:50:29below £500,000, maybe £470,000.
0:50:29 > 0:50:37- OK. Chris?- A difficult one to price, but I'm gonna go with £465,000.
0:50:37 > 0:50:43OK. Well, this property is on the market for £599,000.
0:50:43 > 0:50:47- Woah! - So are you surprised at that price?
0:50:47 > 0:50:49Very surprised at the price.
0:50:49 > 0:50:54It's a good £100,000 more than I would have thought, taking all the factors in.
0:50:54 > 0:50:58Yeah. Well, it is unique, it is quirky and individual, so why don't
0:50:58 > 0:51:02- you go and have one final look, and I'll catch up with you in a minute. - OK.- Great.- OK.
0:51:06 > 0:51:13So, Jules and Chris really surprised at that price of this property, but it is in a good location.
0:51:13 > 0:51:16It might not be right for them, but I'm sure there's someone out there
0:51:16 > 0:51:20who would love to live in a converted chapel like this.
0:51:20 > 0:51:23It may not be for them, but at £599,000
0:51:23 > 0:51:27the Mystery House is just within Chris and Jules's budget.
0:51:27 > 0:51:32It has three bedrooms, loads of original features and a garage,
0:51:32 > 0:51:37plus, being so close to the M3 and Woking, fantastic transport links.
0:51:37 > 0:51:40My first impressions of the property were that it definitely
0:51:40 > 0:51:45fitted the "mystery" bill in that it was very different.
0:51:45 > 0:51:48I think in terms of fitting my requirement for a bit of character,
0:51:48 > 0:51:53I think the dial might be turned up just a little bit too much, but I think it's definitely
0:51:53 > 0:51:56let us know that we should be looking at properties that are a little different.
0:51:56 > 0:51:59It's a really interesting property.
0:51:59 > 0:52:01It's got some great features.
0:52:01 > 0:52:03It just doesn't have
0:52:03 > 0:52:06the young family configuration that I need.
0:52:07 > 0:52:11OK, well you've seen all the properties now, so you've got lots to think about,
0:52:11 > 0:52:16- so let's find somewhere where you can really think it all through and we can have a chat.- Great.
0:52:24 > 0:52:27'Chris and Jules's property tour of Surrey is over.
0:52:27 > 0:52:32'It's been quite some journey and now it's time for them to consider the options.'
0:52:35 > 0:52:39Well, it's nearly final decision time for Chris and Jules and we may
0:52:39 > 0:52:42have cracked it with that very first property.
0:52:42 > 0:52:46It was semi-detached and they had concerns about that, but on reflection after
0:52:46 > 0:52:52everything that they saw, that could be the perfect house for them, but let's see what they've got to say.
0:52:55 > 0:52:59Jules and Chris, it's certainly been a very interesting few days.
0:52:59 > 0:53:05The very first property that we saw, can you remember your first impressions on that house?
0:53:05 > 0:53:06A really nice feel at the front,
0:53:06 > 0:53:10nice big hedges, so lots of privacy, so actually the fact that it was
0:53:10 > 0:53:12semi-detached is not a problem.
0:53:12 > 0:53:14What about the inside of the property itself?
0:53:14 > 0:53:18I liked it. Nice sort of living space downstairs.
0:53:18 > 0:53:24It's very open and quite spacious, especially from the hallway so you could see through to the back
0:53:24 > 0:53:26and the kitchen which looked really nice.
0:53:26 > 0:53:29It was a positive start once you stepped through.
0:53:29 > 0:53:35The West Horsley property really is perfectly located for schools,
0:53:35 > 0:53:37really pleased with that element of it.
0:53:37 > 0:53:42We went to Cobham - that fantastic walkway to the station.
0:53:42 > 0:53:46I took you there first because if you can walk to the station, that's a priority.
0:53:46 > 0:53:48What a great way to start the day.
0:53:48 > 0:53:51But the property was a new-build, built in the '70s.
0:53:51 > 0:53:54But was it the right new-build for you?
0:53:54 > 0:53:55Probably not.
0:53:55 > 0:54:00It was a really lovely house and very appealing that it didn't need anything doing to it.
0:54:00 > 0:54:05But it just didn't do anything for me.
0:54:05 > 0:54:08I came out of it thinking the same thing.
0:54:08 > 0:54:12It was a nice layout, it had the bedrooms and a nice garden
0:54:12 > 0:54:21but maybe it's the style and at the time I thought lacking character that I can really enjoy.
0:54:21 > 0:54:24Even though there were many positives to the property.
0:54:24 > 0:54:28But I think just not quite enough.,
0:54:28 > 0:54:30Now we saw a property in Shackleford.
0:54:30 > 0:54:33Would it be fair to say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover?
0:54:33 > 0:54:35Definitely with that property.
0:54:35 > 0:54:38Obviously, we were very reserved when we first saw it,
0:54:38 > 0:54:41but went through the door and thought, "This is beautiful".
0:54:41 > 0:54:46Yeah. I was impressed with the work that had been done.
0:54:46 > 0:54:49It's very smart and maybe a challenge I had was I thought
0:54:49 > 0:54:52it was a bit too smart and could I see that as the family home?
0:54:52 > 0:54:56Now, I'm smiling because I'm going to bring up the mystery property.
0:54:56 > 0:55:02- Of course.- I don't think there was much doubt on the opinions on the mystery property.
0:55:02 > 0:55:05But, did it open your eyes as to the possibility that you could look at a property
0:55:05 > 0:55:09like that and slightly change your lifestyle to make it work?
0:55:09 > 0:55:11- Or not?- In some ways.
0:55:11 > 0:55:14I think it's almost a kind of risky property, I think.
0:55:14 > 0:55:17It's one of those things that
0:55:17 > 0:55:21it's either a real hit or it's a real miss and it's good that we
0:55:21 > 0:55:24had the opportunity to see something different.
0:55:24 > 0:55:28Out of all the properties, is there any particular one that really took your fancy?
0:55:28 > 0:55:33Probably the West Horsley property.
0:55:33 > 0:55:36The 1920s semi. What about you, Jules?
0:55:36 > 0:55:41The interior of the Shackleford property, but the location of the West Horsley property.
0:55:41 > 0:55:43What's the next step for you?
0:55:43 > 0:55:46The next step for us is to sell our current house,
0:55:46 > 0:55:51which has just gone on the market, and when we've got a firm offer on
0:55:51 > 0:55:56that, then we'll know exactly what our budget is and we'll move pretty quickly from there.
0:55:56 > 0:55:58Well, we wish you all the very best.
0:55:58 > 0:56:02- Thank you.- With the potential move and enjoying your new life in the
0:56:02 > 0:56:06- country in Surrey and also for the new arrival as well.- Thank you.
0:56:06 > 0:56:10- Let us know how you get on. - We will.- Thanks for all your help and advice.- Thank you.
0:56:15 > 0:56:22It's been a very interesting few days, looking round this beautiful, but rather expensive, county.
0:56:22 > 0:56:27For Chris and Jules they started off hoping not to compromise, but, having seen what was on offer
0:56:27 > 0:56:33to them, they now realise they're going to have to and whether they get to move before or after the baby
0:56:33 > 0:56:39is born remains to be seen, but one thing we do know, is they're going to be moving to Surrey very soon.
0:56:39 > 0:56:42Join us again next time on Escape To The Country.
0:56:43 > 0:56:46If you would like to Escape To The Country
0:56:46 > 0:56:52and want our help, please apply online at...
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