0:00:02 > 0:00:04Today, we're house-hunting in one of my favourite areas
0:00:04 > 0:00:09and these dramatic castle ruins are perhaps one of the finest examples
0:00:09 > 0:00:11of how our lordly, medieval ancestors
0:00:11 > 0:00:15decided that castle-living was a bit rough around the edges,
0:00:15 > 0:00:19and that, in fact, they might be more comfortable...in a manor house.
0:00:32 > 0:00:33'On today's show,
0:00:33 > 0:00:36'we're helping a family get back to their rural Welsh roots.
0:00:36 > 0:00:41'And we've got some unbelievable properties coming up.'
0:00:41 > 0:00:43No way!
0:00:43 > 0:00:45'But can they hold their nerve?'
0:00:45 > 0:00:47We do like to test you on this show...
0:00:47 > 0:00:50- Yeah.- ..and take you outside your comfort zone.- I'm there!
0:00:50 > 0:00:51You're there!
0:00:51 > 0:00:54'Because we might be hitting the jackpot.'
0:00:54 > 0:00:57This could be our perfect home.
0:00:57 > 0:00:58OK.
0:01:01 > 0:01:04Well, today I'm in Wales, Powys, to be precise.
0:01:04 > 0:01:07Once upon a time, this was one of the most hotly contested
0:01:07 > 0:01:09border regions in British history.
0:01:09 > 0:01:14Now, just 200 yards outside of this Tretower Court, is Tretower Castle.
0:01:14 > 0:01:17The castle goes to the heart of the conflict that really
0:01:17 > 0:01:19peppered the border over the centuries.
0:01:19 > 0:01:23As things settled down a bit, peace came and things changed.
0:01:25 > 0:01:27'Lying on the English border,
0:01:27 > 0:01:29'Powys sits in the heart of Celtic Cymru.
0:01:29 > 0:01:31'It's Wales' largest county
0:01:31 > 0:01:33'covering a quarter of the country.
0:01:34 > 0:01:37'In the south, the Brecon Beacons National Park
0:01:37 > 0:01:38'dominates the countryside.
0:01:38 > 0:01:40'Covering over 500 square miles,
0:01:40 > 0:01:44'the scenery ranges from dramatic, windswept mountains
0:01:44 > 0:01:46'to extensive wooded valleys.
0:01:47 > 0:01:50'Llangorse Lake in the north of the park
0:01:50 > 0:01:53'is the highest natural lake in South Wales
0:01:53 > 0:01:55'and local legend has it that a lost city
0:01:55 > 0:01:58'lay submerged beneath its waters.
0:01:58 > 0:02:01'Powys is an extremely rural place
0:02:01 > 0:02:04'and as one of the least populated counties in England and Wales,
0:02:04 > 0:02:07'it's the perfect spot for those in search
0:02:07 > 0:02:09'of a more tranquil way of life.'
0:02:14 > 0:02:17The motto here is, I think, rather lovely -
0:02:17 > 0:02:22Powys Paradwys Cymru or in English - Powys the paradise of Wales,
0:02:22 > 0:02:23and it's rather apt
0:02:23 > 0:02:26because a recent study by a couple of leading universities
0:02:26 > 0:02:30when assessing things like social cohesion and general wellbeing
0:02:30 > 0:02:33concluded that Powys is the happiest place to live in the UK.
0:02:33 > 0:02:36So, as you can see, the locals are laughing.
0:02:36 > 0:02:39So, if you fancy a pad in this Welsh paradise,
0:02:39 > 0:02:43here are a few tantalising examples of what's on the market right now.
0:02:43 > 0:02:48'If you're property shopping with £975,000,
0:02:48 > 0:02:51'this outstanding four-bedroom former vicarage
0:02:51 > 0:02:52'in Builth Wells,
0:02:52 > 0:02:54'enjoys breathtaking views
0:02:54 > 0:02:57'over some of the finest countryside Powys has to offer.
0:02:57 > 0:03:00'It has a large country kitchen
0:03:00 > 0:03:04'and four reception rooms all exuding grandeur and elegance.
0:03:05 > 0:03:07'Or, £569,000
0:03:07 > 0:03:09'could seal the deal
0:03:09 > 0:03:12'on this attractive five-bed property in Llangammarch Wells,
0:03:12 > 0:03:15'featuring a homely farmhouse kitchen and reception rooms
0:03:15 > 0:03:17'dominated by Inglenook fireplaces.
0:03:17 > 0:03:19'It's set in five acres
0:03:19 > 0:03:21'with wonderful, far-reaching views.
0:03:23 > 0:03:25'And finally, for £250,000,
0:03:25 > 0:03:27'this detached three-bed cottage near Brecon
0:03:27 > 0:03:29'comes with a large kitchen
0:03:29 > 0:03:31'and a living room that's bursting
0:03:31 > 0:03:34'with original features and charm.'
0:03:36 > 0:03:39So, there you go, a brief glimpse of the sort of properties
0:03:39 > 0:03:40that this county has to offer.
0:03:40 > 0:03:43The kind of buildings that have certainly inspired today's buyers
0:03:43 > 0:03:47to make the green, green grass of Wales their new home.
0:03:47 > 0:03:51'This week's house quest is very much a family affair.
0:03:51 > 0:03:53'John and Rachel are at the helm
0:03:53 > 0:03:55'and together with their four children, they live
0:03:55 > 0:03:58'in this modern five-bedroom house in Poole, Dorset.
0:03:58 > 0:04:02'But, they'd like to trade in their suburban house
0:04:02 > 0:04:05'for something more rustic in the glorious Welsh countryside.'
0:04:05 > 0:04:08My business has just relocated to that part of the world
0:04:08 > 0:04:12and for that reason I'm now spending an excessive amount of time away.
0:04:12 > 0:04:15We've got this lovely modern house and everything
0:04:15 > 0:04:18but it just feels a little bit too superficial for us.
0:04:18 > 0:04:21We're not townies, we want to get out in the fresh air
0:04:21 > 0:04:24and just have a home that is a lot lower maintenance
0:04:24 > 0:04:27than the one that we have now, where it doesn't matter
0:04:27 > 0:04:29if you come in in your dirty wellies or anything.
0:04:29 > 0:04:32'But Wales is a big place,
0:04:32 > 0:04:34'so where exactly do they want to muddy their boots?'
0:04:34 > 0:04:37We'd like to move back to the Brecon Beacons area.
0:04:37 > 0:04:38What the criteria is,
0:04:38 > 0:04:41is that we've identified some schooling for the children,
0:04:41 > 0:04:45and we need to be in with a circumference of 10, 15 miles
0:04:45 > 0:04:46of those schools.
0:04:46 > 0:04:47I think so.
0:04:47 > 0:04:49'And what type of house are they hoping for
0:04:49 > 0:04:51'in the beautiful Breacons?'
0:04:51 > 0:04:56What we want is traditional values. Traditional stone, traditional living.
0:04:56 > 0:04:59The property would need a minimum of four bedrooms,
0:04:59 > 0:05:01with the potential to create a fifth one,
0:05:01 > 0:05:04- and preferably a sixth one so we could have a spare.- Yeah.
0:05:04 > 0:05:09We want a very large country-style kitchen or again the potential to put that in.
0:05:09 > 0:05:14An additional space for the children so we have a lounge and they a lounge.
0:05:14 > 0:05:16Preferably at separate ends of the house.
0:05:16 > 0:05:20I think landwise we'd be looking for a minimum of three acres,
0:05:20 > 0:05:23but we're not averse to taking on something with 30-plus acres.
0:05:23 > 0:05:27Just as well, because the children Beth, Connor, Jack and Danny
0:05:27 > 0:05:32have set their hearts on keeping lots and lots and lots of animals.
0:05:32 > 0:05:35And Rachel's got more ideas up her sleeve.
0:05:35 > 0:05:39I don't envisage myself going back to work,
0:05:39 > 0:05:41so I want our new place to offer me
0:05:41 > 0:05:45the potential to earn some income from home, whether that be
0:05:45 > 0:05:48a holiday let or running a business from home,
0:05:48 > 0:05:52like a little shop or something.
0:05:52 > 0:05:56But before starting the search, we need to find out how much money there is to play with,
0:05:56 > 0:06:01so we've asked a local agent to value their house.
0:06:01 > 0:06:04This property is a beautifully presented, high specification,
0:06:04 > 0:06:05five-bedroom detached house,
0:06:05 > 0:06:09situated in a highly sought-after road in Broadstone,
0:06:09 > 0:06:17and I would recommend placing the property on the market at an asking price at £750,000.
0:06:19 > 0:06:23With all that in mind, how much do they have to spend on their move to Wales?
0:06:23 > 0:06:26Ideally, the budget for this move would be £700,000.
0:06:29 > 0:06:33With John's work based in Abercynon, and preferred schooling in Brecon,
0:06:33 > 0:06:40our search will stretch across the Brecon Beacons National Park, towards the south of the county.
0:06:40 > 0:06:43I'll be taking them on a tour of some fantastic country houses,
0:06:43 > 0:06:46each offering a variety of opportunities, but, as ever,
0:06:46 > 0:06:49I'll be keeping my lips sealed as to the attached price tags.
0:06:49 > 0:06:53And of course the finale will be the mystery property,
0:06:53 > 0:06:58where their hopes for the future could be a reality sooner than they think.
0:07:01 > 0:07:06- Hi, Rachel.- Hi.- Hi, John.- Jules. - Nice to see you.- And you.
0:07:06 > 0:07:09Welcome to Wales, but this is home for you, isn't it.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12Yeah, absolutely. Born just down the road there in Ebbw Vale.
0:07:12 > 0:07:15So over the top of those peaks you can see behind us.
0:07:15 > 0:07:20One of the key factors in making this decision are children and schools.
0:07:20 > 0:07:22Tell me a bit more about them.
0:07:22 > 0:07:27We have three teenage children, and a two-and-a-half-year-old as well,
0:07:27 > 0:07:30so we need a good comprehensive school.
0:07:30 > 0:07:33Let's be clear on what you're trying to achieve with this new spread.
0:07:33 > 0:07:35I would like an income potential.
0:07:35 > 0:07:40I've looked at going back to work and it's not going to happen with four kids, I don't think,
0:07:40 > 0:07:42not if we want to give them the best, most stable life.
0:07:42 > 0:07:47- So something you can do from home. B&B or holiday lets?- Not B&B.
0:07:47 > 0:07:53Holiday lets, I'd look at, or I wouldn't even be against the idea of some small-scale farming.
0:07:53 > 0:07:58So £700,000 is the figure we've got to play with, to try and achieve all this.
0:07:58 > 0:08:02- Less if you can.- Less if we can. All right. I'm fairly optimistic actually.
0:08:02 > 0:08:05Let's go and find some houses. Come on.
0:08:08 > 0:08:11Armed with a very good budget of up to £700,000,
0:08:11 > 0:08:14John and Rachel are after a traditional property,
0:08:14 > 0:08:18with lots of historic features, set in a minimum of three acres,
0:08:18 > 0:08:21with outbuildings offering business possibilities.
0:08:21 > 0:08:24Inside, as well as a large country kitchen, they want at least
0:08:24 > 0:08:29four bedrooms and two reception rooms, but potential to create more.
0:08:29 > 0:08:32The location should be rural, but not too remote
0:08:32 > 0:08:34as they need good road access to schools.
0:08:34 > 0:08:37In fact, proximity to schools is paramount,
0:08:37 > 0:08:39and we'll have to consider primary education,
0:08:39 > 0:08:41right through to secondary.
0:08:41 > 0:08:45Loaded with a considerable wish list for their Powys relocation,
0:08:45 > 0:08:47it's time to get started.
0:08:47 > 0:08:51The first stop takes us to Llyswen in South Powys,
0:08:51 > 0:08:57just a short distance from the Brecon Beacons National Park, about eight miles north of Brecon.
0:08:57 > 0:09:00It's a very pretty tranquil village on the banks of the River Wye,
0:09:00 > 0:09:04with a couple of pubs, places to eat and drink and a primary school.
0:09:04 > 0:09:09Our first house is located about two miles outside of the village,
0:09:09 > 0:09:12and benefits from a rural setting, surrounded by beautiful
0:09:12 > 0:09:16countryside, but with great road links right on the doorstep.
0:09:17 > 0:09:19- Have a look at that.- Very pretty.
0:09:19 > 0:09:23When the current owners bought this it was completely derelict and half the size.
0:09:23 > 0:09:27- Can you see those two windows on the upper storey?- Yeah.- Yeah.
0:09:27 > 0:09:31That's basically what it was, and what they've done is added effectively another house to it.
0:09:31 > 0:09:35The same again to it. And they've done it immaculately.
0:09:35 > 0:09:38The only issue of course is the road.
0:09:38 > 0:09:40Yeah, we did notice that on the way in.
0:09:40 > 0:09:44It's a lovely spot and we'll definitely keep an open mind.
0:09:44 > 0:09:47It's worth you seeing this one, because if you can overcome that,
0:09:47 > 0:09:52which I think the property does in all sorts of ways, you'll be OK.
0:09:52 > 0:09:55- It's beautiful. - Wait till you see inside.- OK.
0:09:55 > 0:09:59This is a traditional stone farmhouse, and has been beautifully renovated
0:09:59 > 0:10:02to create a contemporary country home.
0:10:02 > 0:10:04- Come in, Rachel. - Oh, very nice.
0:10:04 > 0:10:06- Yeah?- Yes.
0:10:06 > 0:10:08Come on in, John. What do you think?
0:10:08 > 0:10:11- Lovely?- Yeah, it's very nice. I'm very impressed.
0:10:11 > 0:10:14As you can see, all done to a fantastic standard.
0:10:14 > 0:10:18The current owner is a joiner,
0:10:18 > 0:10:22and he's done a lot of this himself, and it just shows, you know.
0:10:22 > 0:10:25I think the attention to detail is terrific.
0:10:25 > 0:10:28It's just beautifully done. I love what they've done with the oven.
0:10:28 > 0:10:31It gets better. I've just seen the cooker.
0:10:31 > 0:10:35Now then, yeah, again, lovely. Oil fired, you know, range there.
0:10:35 > 0:10:39- Lots to entertain you with, I think, and your quests.- Lovely.
0:10:39 > 0:10:44Come and have a look through here, because it does go on. This is the extension.
0:10:45 > 0:10:50- Now then, how about this for your living space?- Oh, lovely.
0:10:50 > 0:10:53- That wood's gorgeous.- Isn't it?
0:10:53 > 0:10:57- It's pretty bold, isn't it.- Yeah. - I'm pretty impressed.
0:10:57 > 0:11:00It's so nice how you've got that either side of the lounge.
0:11:00 > 0:11:06I've never really seen this before, but we've got two identical conservatories on either side.
0:11:06 > 0:11:11I'm just thinking about you guys with teenagers and young children, and you.
0:11:11 > 0:11:12Their space, our space.
0:11:12 > 0:11:14Precisely. But you can also shut them off.
0:11:14 > 0:11:18This is quite nice, we've got these lovely panels that run throughout.
0:11:18 > 0:11:23- Gorgeous.- And the windows as well. - Isn't that lovely.
0:11:23 > 0:11:26So they've really thought about how you would use this space.
0:11:26 > 0:11:29- Beautiful. It really is well done, isn't it?- Yes.
0:11:29 > 0:11:34The accommodation on the first floor could also work well for their large family,
0:11:34 > 0:11:38though, with four bedrooms in total, some of the children might have to share.
0:11:38 > 0:11:44But the rooms are all a good size, including a double guest bedroom
0:11:44 > 0:11:50and two further doubles, which could suit the children down to ground.
0:11:50 > 0:11:53This floor is also home to the family bathroom,
0:11:53 > 0:11:56complete with separate bath and shower cubicle.
0:11:56 > 0:11:59John and Rachel have been impressed with what they've seen so far
0:11:59 > 0:12:03but wait until they see what we've got in store for their room.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07So, this is the master bedroom.
0:12:07 > 0:12:09- Yeah?- Yeah, lovely.
0:12:09 > 0:12:12- Happy with this, wouldn't you? - Yeah, you're right.
0:12:12 > 0:12:16Who wouldn't be? Look at it. It's absolutely gorgeous.
0:12:16 > 0:12:20It's also got this mezzanine area up here, which is quite interesting.
0:12:20 > 0:12:23More of an architectural feature than anything else, I suppose.
0:12:23 > 0:12:25It does offer you some storage space.
0:12:25 > 0:12:29The way to get to it is, is this.
0:12:29 > 0:12:31These are the stairs that get you up there.
0:12:31 > 0:12:36- How clever's that?- How clever's that, with storage built in?
0:12:36 > 0:12:37So you get the best of both worlds -
0:12:37 > 0:12:42the vaulted ceiling, which gives you all the height and space you'd ever want,
0:12:42 > 0:12:44plus extra storage and a really lovely feature, too.
0:12:44 > 0:12:47Certainly ticks all the boxes for me, Jules,
0:12:47 > 0:12:50and I've just seen the en suite too.
0:12:50 > 0:12:53Yes, I love it. The thing it is mirrors the angle of the bed.
0:12:53 > 0:12:57- I love the fact the bed is offset, which is nice, but yes.- Different.
0:12:57 > 0:13:00Have a look. Go and check it out. I like the fact it doesn't have a door.
0:13:00 > 0:13:05- Yeah. You don't need one, do you? - A nice little free-standing roll-top bath, Rachel.
0:13:05 > 0:13:09- I would be lost in there for hours on end with my books. - It's something special. Fair play.
0:13:09 > 0:13:11- Yeah?- Yeah.
0:13:11 > 0:13:14'This most definitely is something special.
0:13:14 > 0:13:18'Not only would the family be well catered for inside the house,
0:13:18 > 0:13:23'but outside could be perfect for all their animals, large or small.
0:13:23 > 0:13:29'There are stables. Barns. Sheds. Pens.
0:13:29 > 0:13:33'Pasture, paddocks and a duck pond.
0:13:33 > 0:13:37'All in all, the land here totals a whopping eight acres.
0:13:37 > 0:13:41'There's also a sports field with rugby posts.
0:13:41 > 0:13:45'A large vegetable garden. A decked area with a hot tub.
0:13:45 > 0:13:49'And the garage is currently being used as a gym and music room,
0:13:49 > 0:13:53'but could be ideal as another guest room, or an office for Rachel's business ideas.'
0:13:53 > 0:13:55So, what do you think?
0:13:55 > 0:13:59- It's gorgeous, isn't it?- Love it. It certainly ticks all the boxes.
0:13:59 > 0:14:03It looks for... For what we were after, it's well within the remit.
0:14:03 > 0:14:06I'm pretty confident that the package is all here,
0:14:06 > 0:14:09the question of course is going to be how much it's going to set you back.
0:14:09 > 0:14:12Any ideas, Rachel?
0:14:12 > 0:14:18I think it's going to be the top end of our budget, because of everything it's got
0:14:18 > 0:14:20but I'm going to go for 675.
0:14:20 > 0:14:22675. John?
0:14:22 > 0:14:26I'd say we're going to be close to, if not just over, budget.
0:14:26 > 0:14:31- I would say just slightly over the 700 mark.- Interesting.
0:14:31 > 0:14:33You're spot on!
0:14:33 > 0:14:35I thought I was going to be rubbish at this.
0:14:35 > 0:14:42- No, well done, Rachel. This is on the market for £675,000.- Wow!
0:14:42 > 0:14:45- So how do you feel about it? - For that sort of price it's a fantastic package.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49There is more to explore. Have a look at the barn and I'll catch up with you later.
0:14:49 > 0:14:51- OK, great.- Off you go.
0:14:51 > 0:14:53'An excellent start.'
0:14:53 > 0:14:55Under budget by £25,000,
0:14:55 > 0:15:01our first offering is a beautifully renovated 19th-century stone farmhouse and small holding.
0:15:01 > 0:15:05The house comes with four bedrooms, an enormous country kitchen,
0:15:05 > 0:15:09and flexible reception space, including two conservatories.
0:15:09 > 0:15:12Outside, the grounds extend to eight acres,
0:15:12 > 0:15:14but with a range of outbuildings
0:15:14 > 0:15:17offering plenty of potential for their menagerie
0:15:17 > 0:15:18and business aspirations.
0:15:18 > 0:15:24The question is, will they be able to get over that road?
0:15:24 > 0:15:28- It's a good space, isn't it? - Oh yes.- Boys toys, I reckon.
0:15:28 > 0:15:34I can just see my motorbikes here, cars there, gym upstairs.
0:15:34 > 0:15:36I think this property surprised us.
0:15:36 > 0:15:40When we first walked up here, obviously you've got the problem with the road.
0:15:40 > 0:15:44It was an instant negative in relation to the property,
0:15:44 > 0:15:49but as soon as we walked through the gate, it was a right little gem behind the gate.
0:15:49 > 0:15:52I feel like we would be getting an awful lot for our money.
0:15:52 > 0:15:56There is a lot of acreage. I'm really happy with the space on the ground floor.
0:15:56 > 0:16:01I think it just covers all aspects on the whole. I think it's definitely a contender.
0:16:01 > 0:16:05- Right, that's it. Property number one, done and dusted.- Loved it.
0:16:05 > 0:16:09I think it's a really good one for to us start with,
0:16:09 > 0:16:14and I think gives you lots potential to take home, in terms of what your new house may be.
0:16:14 > 0:16:16Definitely had lots of what we're looking for.
0:16:16 > 0:16:19- Keep this one on the list. It's definitely a good one.- Yeah.
0:16:19 > 0:16:26- But there are of course a couple more to come, including the mystery house.- Mmmm.- I wonder!
0:16:29 > 0:16:34John and Rachel have chosen Powys so the whole family can take advantage
0:16:34 > 0:16:37of all that the Brecon Beacons National Park has to offer.
0:16:37 > 0:16:42The park's name derives from the ancient practice of lighting signal fires on mountains
0:16:42 > 0:16:45to warn of enemy attack. But back in the 11th century,
0:16:45 > 0:16:50the invading Norman army successfully conquered what is now Brecon town.
0:16:50 > 0:16:55During the week, we sent John and Rachel to meet up with local expert Peter Jenkins,
0:16:55 > 0:17:00to find out more about Brecon's history since the Norman invasion.
0:17:00 > 0:17:03The original Norman priory became a parish church in the 16th century,
0:17:03 > 0:17:10but in 1923 it was given cathedral status, which Brecon's locals are particularly proud of.
0:17:12 > 0:17:16Is it unusual that Brecon's just a cathedral town and not a city?
0:17:16 > 0:17:22It is unusual. In Henry VII's times, it was quite common if you lived in a place where there was a cathedral,
0:17:22 > 0:17:27that was a city, but in the 20th century, the rules changed,
0:17:27 > 0:17:32the fact there was a cathedral wasn't an issue. We remain a town.
0:17:32 > 0:17:35Brecon is the largest town in the National Park,
0:17:35 > 0:17:39nestled in the shadow of the magnificent Brecon Beacons.
0:17:39 > 0:17:43Extensive ice sheets from the most recent ice age carved the mountainous landscape
0:17:43 > 0:17:45into the shapes we see today.
0:17:45 > 0:17:48John and Rachel are meeting up with geologist John Davies,
0:17:48 > 0:17:51who's taking them to Craig Cerrig-gleisiad nature reserve,
0:17:51 > 0:17:57which provides a visual testament to the huge glaciers that once existed here.
0:17:57 > 0:18:03The last ice development in this area was about 10,000 years ago.
0:18:03 > 0:18:09After that, as the ice melted, of course, the ground was full of water, and was unstable
0:18:09 > 0:18:14and the slightest shock, slight earthquake, small difference in climate or something,
0:18:14 > 0:18:17and everything would start to slide.
0:18:17 > 0:18:20We're looking at a big landslide in the back here.
0:18:20 > 0:18:23You can see, if you look carefully at the cliff,
0:18:23 > 0:18:26there are steep bits which are actually crags,
0:18:26 > 0:18:31and then there are shallower bits with vegetation growing on them.
0:18:31 > 0:18:35And now what you see of course are trees growing on the ledges,
0:18:35 > 0:18:38and eventually the cliff itself will become obscured by trees.
0:18:38 > 0:18:42This reserve is just a taste of the park's diverse environment.
0:18:42 > 0:18:45John and Rachel are hoping for more time to explore the park
0:18:45 > 0:18:48when they find their own base down here.
0:18:48 > 0:18:49So, it's back to the hunt.
0:18:55 > 0:18:58Our first house was a tempting proposition
0:18:58 > 0:19:01but there's lots more to see. We're heading south to Llangynidr,
0:19:01 > 0:19:06deep in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park, close to where John grew up.
0:19:06 > 0:19:09The area is famed for beautiful countryside
0:19:09 > 0:19:13and Llangynidr is a picturesque, peaceful village on the banks
0:19:13 > 0:19:16of the River Usk with a village shop, post office and pub.
0:19:16 > 0:19:20Our second house is in a quiet location on the edge of the village,
0:19:20 > 0:19:25away from major roads. It's also within 40 minutes of John's work
0:19:25 > 0:19:28and near to their favoured schools.
0:19:28 > 0:19:30So the property meets a lot of their criteria.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33However, it's packaged in a more modern exterior.
0:19:35 > 0:19:40- This is enormous. - I agree with you. It's enormous.
0:19:40 > 0:19:42What we've got, it's 1960s or thereabouts.
0:19:42 > 0:19:46- There's a lot going for this one... - OK.- ..because it's so big.
0:19:46 > 0:19:49- OK.- And, of course, we've got some very nice grounds
0:19:49 > 0:19:53for you to explore, as well. So, what do you think?
0:19:53 > 0:19:56Initially, it's not what I'm after, initially.
0:19:56 > 0:20:01I knew you'd say that. I'm not giving you the hard sell here,
0:20:01 > 0:20:04but I really think this is one you should view,
0:20:04 > 0:20:07because I think it does offer all the space that you're looking for.
0:20:07 > 0:20:10Yeah? John? John's very quiet on this one.
0:20:10 > 0:20:15I think I'm intrigued to have a look at what's inside, that's for sure.
0:20:15 > 0:20:16We like to test you on this show,
0:20:16 > 0:20:19- take you outside of your comfort zone.- I'm there, I'm there!
0:20:19 > 0:20:22You're there. OK, fine. Let's see if we can make you feel
0:20:22 > 0:20:24a bit more comfortable.
0:20:24 > 0:20:28They may have reservations about the style outside,
0:20:28 > 0:20:31but I think they'll be impressed by the space inside.
0:20:31 > 0:20:36It covers almost 3,500 square feet, ideal for their large family.
0:20:36 > 0:20:41Right, huge hallway.
0:20:41 > 0:20:43- Nice.- Yes? Nice?- Yeah.
0:20:43 > 0:20:46You're allowed nice, nice is good. And come into here.
0:20:46 > 0:20:49I think this is extraordinary.
0:20:50 > 0:20:54- Nice, too.- Yes?- Yes. It's better from the inside.
0:20:54 > 0:20:56This is the main family room.
0:20:56 > 0:21:00It goes the full width of the property, front garden, back garden.
0:21:00 > 0:21:02There are all kinds of little nooks and crannies
0:21:02 > 0:21:05that lead off the various rooms in this house.
0:21:05 > 0:21:09You've got a sunroom through there, another separate study,
0:21:09 > 0:21:13workshop area through there again, could be a gym if you want it to be.
0:21:13 > 0:21:16That in turn leads onto the double garage.
0:21:16 > 0:21:20It's a really meandering kind of footprint if you like. Yes? OK.
0:21:20 > 0:21:26I feel like I'm struggling here. It's an uphill battle, isn't it?
0:21:26 > 0:21:28Come and have a look at the kitchen.
0:21:28 > 0:21:33Now, if I'm honest, I think the kitchen is probably
0:21:33 > 0:21:39the part of the house that's going to challenge the most.
0:21:39 > 0:21:43I think the core of our drive, really,
0:21:43 > 0:21:47when looking at a country farmhouse property was the kitchen area
0:21:47 > 0:21:50being the integral entertainment room to the house.
0:21:50 > 0:21:54- Yeah.- I'm not sure this offers that. It would need some serious tweaking.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57On the positive side, you've got that fantastic view.
0:21:57 > 0:22:00One could imagine something on the outside,
0:22:00 > 0:22:04a sunroom/conservatory kind of arrangement,
0:22:04 > 0:22:06which would make this a bigger space.
0:22:06 > 0:22:09You could make it what you wanted, couldn't you?
0:22:09 > 0:22:11It is a good-sized room. Like you say,
0:22:11 > 0:22:14if you were to go out a bit as well, you could have your range
0:22:14 > 0:22:18and your nice hand-made kitchen and things like that, couldn't you?
0:22:18 > 0:22:22Down on the ground floor, cleverly hidden under the staircase,
0:22:22 > 0:22:26is a study. There's also a large utility with separate vanity room
0:22:26 > 0:22:29with WC and, right at the end of the hallway is the guest suite.
0:22:31 > 0:22:34So I'm wondering whether, you know,
0:22:34 > 0:22:37this is one for your eldest daughter.
0:22:37 > 0:22:41- Do you know what? She'd love it. - Girly lounge.
0:22:41 > 0:22:45And when all her mates come round, you can lock them in here with their own telly.
0:22:45 > 0:22:49She's got a bedroom next door, for sleepovers, all that sort of stuff.
0:22:49 > 0:22:51- That's really good, huh? - Yeah, I like this.
0:22:51 > 0:22:55- It does get better, you're right. - Good, excellent.
0:22:55 > 0:22:56I've think it safe to say
0:22:56 > 0:22:58that this place is really growing on our buyers.
0:22:58 > 0:23:02They're pleasantly surprised at what's been presented downstairs,
0:23:02 > 0:23:07so I hope they'll be pleased with what's on offer on the first floor.
0:23:07 > 0:23:10At the top of the stairs is a huge spacious landing,
0:23:10 > 0:23:14from which flow the remaining four bedrooms.
0:23:14 > 0:23:17They're all generously sized and immaculately presented.
0:23:17 > 0:23:21And one features dual-aspect windows with enough space for a sofa.
0:23:21 > 0:23:27There's also the family bathroom up here, but we're going to take a look at the main bedroom.
0:23:27 > 0:23:30- So this is your own master suite, effectively.- OK.
0:23:30 > 0:23:34You've got a sort of dressing area here, and built-in storage.
0:23:34 > 0:23:38En suite in there, bath, loo, and all the rest of it.
0:23:38 > 0:23:42- And then this is the bedroom bit. - Ooh, very nice.- Yeah?
0:23:42 > 0:23:45- Little balcony with those views, look.- Yes.
0:23:45 > 0:23:49In fairness, it's not the biggest bedroom of the lot.
0:23:49 > 0:23:51But then you've got all that and the ensuite and so forth.
0:23:51 > 0:23:55- It's just for the bed, isn't it? - Just for the bed, so I mean,
0:23:55 > 0:23:58if this would work, I think this is absolutely where you'd be.
0:23:58 > 0:24:03- I like.- Yeah?- Yeah. I'm definitely warming towards the potential.
0:24:03 > 0:24:05The potential gets even hotter outside
0:24:05 > 0:24:09and the master suite overlooks just some of the incredible land
0:24:09 > 0:24:11that accompanies this property.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14The plot is about two acres, half of which is given over
0:24:14 > 0:24:17to a fenced paddock with stable block
0:24:17 > 0:24:22and the other half covers more formal lawned gardens.
0:24:22 > 0:24:25Now this, I think, is really sweet.
0:24:25 > 0:24:28- It's like a little secret garden, isn't it?- Isn't it?
0:24:28 > 0:24:33It is something of a walled garden, albeit with lovely beech hedges.
0:24:33 > 0:24:37The rest of your paddock runs through the back, just beyond that.
0:24:37 > 0:24:39So that's yours as well.
0:24:39 > 0:24:43Let's get down to the tricky bit, let's talk about the money.
0:24:43 > 0:24:47- Yeah.- Who's going to guess first on this one? You went first last time.
0:24:47 > 0:24:51- Go on, John.- I'll go first this time. I would say 735.
0:24:51 > 0:24:53735.
0:24:53 > 0:24:57I'm going to go for 700.
0:24:57 > 0:25:00700. You're going to love this.
0:25:00 > 0:25:03Cos you're wrong. Ha-ha!
0:25:03 > 0:25:05- I love a bit of competition. - I love it already.
0:25:05 > 0:25:08And you're not far off. Actually, you're just over.
0:25:08 > 0:25:15- 725,000 would secure this for you. - OK.- Or offers in the region of.
0:25:15 > 0:25:18What do you think about that?
0:25:18 > 0:25:21When we originally came in here,
0:25:21 > 0:25:24I think it was evident that instantly it was not what
0:25:24 > 0:25:27we were looking for but I think as we've progressed through it,
0:25:27 > 0:25:30and the house has told its story, I think, yeah,
0:25:30 > 0:25:32we've grown to secretly admire it.
0:25:32 > 0:25:38It has been a bit of a slow burn, but a real grower.
0:25:38 > 0:25:41Room by room, it has absolutely everything.
0:25:41 > 0:25:45Go and have a look around, see what this two acres really does deliver,
0:25:45 > 0:25:47go and have another good look around the property.
0:25:47 > 0:25:51There's an awful lot to take in and we've just scratched the surface.
0:25:51 > 0:25:55- I'll catch up with you later. - Great.- Off you go.
0:25:55 > 0:25:58Despite initial reservations, this place has, in effect, sold itself
0:25:58 > 0:26:01and so it should because it's a terrific property.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04Slightly over budget at £725,000,
0:26:04 > 0:26:09this substantial detached family home comes with five bedrooms
0:26:09 > 0:26:13including a master en suite and flexible ground floor accommodation.
0:26:13 > 0:26:17The grounds are set in two acres with a paddock and stables,
0:26:17 > 0:26:21but will they forego their love of historic period features
0:26:21 > 0:26:24for this glorious location within the Brecon Beacons National Park?
0:26:26 > 0:26:29When we first walked down the drive, I really wanted to turn and run
0:26:29 > 0:26:32because it was everything I said I didn't want.
0:26:32 > 0:26:36As I wandered around, it just became more and more appealing.
0:26:36 > 0:26:41It has absolutely everything. It just looks like a 1960s house,
0:26:41 > 0:26:46that's the worst thing. Although I'm having an argument with myself,
0:26:46 > 0:26:49- because it could be changed. - The house has told its story,
0:26:49 > 0:26:52and the further we got engrossed in the house and involved
0:26:52 > 0:26:56in the house, we realised that the house was a beautiful property.
0:26:56 > 0:26:59I suppose the old adage is don't judge a book by its cover.
0:27:00 > 0:27:04- Seen it all?- Yes. - There's a lot to take in.
0:27:04 > 0:27:06It's a really interesting property this. And again,
0:27:06 > 0:27:09the more we're here, the more I like it, I have to say.
0:27:09 > 0:27:12- It's lovely. It really is lovely. - Good. If only you'd said that
0:27:12 > 0:27:14when we first walked in! Come on.
0:27:21 > 0:27:26With the sun setting across the magnificent Welsh countryside,
0:27:26 > 0:27:29the first day of our house hunt draws to a close.
0:27:31 > 0:27:35On a budget of £700,000, John and Rachel want to give
0:27:35 > 0:27:39their four children the idyllic country lifestyle
0:27:39 > 0:27:42that they had growing up. So they're leaving town life
0:27:42 > 0:27:46in Dorset to get back to basics on a smallholding in Powys.
0:27:46 > 0:27:50So far, we've shown them two fantastic Welsh retreats.
0:27:50 > 0:27:52Yeah, I'm pretty impressed.
0:27:52 > 0:27:55But could what's coming up in the mystery house
0:27:55 > 0:27:57completely eclipse the rest?
0:27:57 > 0:28:01Yeah, this is exceeding my expectations a thousand times.
0:28:03 > 0:28:06The second day of our house quest is upon us
0:28:06 > 0:28:09which means it's mystery house time and to get there,
0:28:09 > 0:28:12we're venturing far out West, out of Powys
0:28:12 > 0:28:15and outside of John and Rachel's preferred search area.
0:28:15 > 0:28:19We're crossing the county border, heading for Carmarthenshire,
0:28:19 > 0:28:22where our destination is Crugybar.
0:28:22 > 0:28:25The farming community of Crugybar is a truly rural escape,
0:28:25 > 0:28:29but it's just a 15-minute drive from the village of Llanwrda,
0:28:29 > 0:28:34which has a pub, a garage, a shop and post office.
0:28:34 > 0:28:37Our mystery package is within easy reach of some good state-run
0:28:37 > 0:28:40and independent schools, though the location may be pushing
0:28:40 > 0:28:44the limit for John's commute. However, I think this property,
0:28:44 > 0:28:47surrounded by lush Welsh landscape, is well worth it.
0:28:49 > 0:28:55So what we've got for you are effectively two barn conversions...
0:28:55 > 0:28:59- OK.- ..which comprise eight bedrooms.
0:28:59 > 0:29:02- That would be nice.- All right? Plenty of room.
0:29:02 > 0:29:06Four of them are part of the main house, shall we say,
0:29:06 > 0:29:08which is effectively that bit,
0:29:08 > 0:29:12and then, can you see these two glazed cart doors?
0:29:12 > 0:29:18- They represent two holiday cottages. - Right.- Each with two bedrooms in.
0:29:18 > 0:29:21- Nice.- Yeah?- Yeah.- Do you see where we're coming from here,
0:29:21 > 0:29:24- with the whole business? - An income opportunity.
0:29:24 > 0:29:26You have an income opportunity, a very good one.
0:29:26 > 0:29:28Come on, let's have a look inside.
0:29:28 > 0:29:32The mystery house is a high-quality conversion of two traditional barns,
0:29:32 > 0:29:35full of charm and character with a history
0:29:35 > 0:29:39believed to date back to the 1600s. We're approaching the property
0:29:39 > 0:29:42from the back, heading for one of the reception rooms.
0:29:42 > 0:29:48We've got this for you, this is one of the reception rooms
0:29:48 > 0:29:52that the main house, your house, would offer you.
0:29:52 > 0:29:58- Yeah?- It's gorgeous.- John? - Yeah, stunning.
0:29:58 > 0:30:02As well as this main living area, there's a mezzanine study up there,
0:30:02 > 0:30:05which is rather sweet, with a window overlooking the drive,
0:30:05 > 0:30:08- so you can see who's coming and going.- It's beautiful.
0:30:08 > 0:30:11It makes me want to cry because it's just so lovely.
0:30:11 > 0:30:14Well this is just a small part of it. I'm mean,
0:30:14 > 0:30:17you wanted period and character, John, here it is.
0:30:17 > 0:30:22- In abundance.- Yeah.- I love the thought of the mezzanine level.
0:30:22 > 0:30:27- It seems to be ticking all the boxes immediately.- Twice.- Yeah.
0:30:27 > 0:30:28- You love it, don't you?- Oh, yeah.
0:30:28 > 0:30:31As you can see, the current owners have gone about
0:30:31 > 0:30:36this six-year restoration and conversion with a fine-tooth comb,
0:30:36 > 0:30:38a real labour of love.
0:30:38 > 0:30:42And they have really brought this building back to life
0:30:42 > 0:30:46in an exceptional way. 'Either side of the living room
0:30:46 > 0:30:50'are two bedrooms with exposed stonework, wooden floors
0:30:50 > 0:30:52'and stylish en suite bathrooms.
0:30:52 > 0:30:55'In fact, there isn't a family bathroom in this property at all
0:30:55 > 0:30:59'because each of the eight bedrooms comes with its very own ensuite,
0:30:59 > 0:31:03'which would be very handy for a household of six people.'
0:31:03 > 0:31:06The one thing it doesn't have is a huge farmhouse kitchen.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09But what it does have is this.
0:31:09 > 0:31:12That's very nice. It's very nice.
0:31:12 > 0:31:15Made up for by that lovely garden room next door.
0:31:15 > 0:31:19- Part of it, isn't it, really. - That works with that, doesn't it? It's all-encompassing.
0:31:19 > 0:31:23- It's gorgeous. - So would you put up with this?
0:31:23 > 0:31:28- I think so.- I think we could just about, you know, get by with it(!)
0:31:28 > 0:31:32Get by. You'd struggle on. Just for the sake of it(!)
0:31:32 > 0:31:35Good, I'm glad, because I think it's really nice.
0:31:35 > 0:31:38And it certainly fits in. We've already seen one reception room.
0:31:38 > 0:31:42The other one is through here.
0:31:42 > 0:31:45There.
0:31:45 > 0:31:48Ahh... I'm going to cry again.
0:31:48 > 0:31:51- Oh, wow.- So you've got a choice. - Oh, what's that?
0:31:51 > 0:31:54Well, this is interesting. This is a little kitchenette unit.
0:31:54 > 0:31:59When they started out doing holiday lets, they used this as one,
0:31:59 > 0:32:02and for various family reasons, they've sort of kept it there.
0:32:02 > 0:32:06Whether you use this as your main family room or next door,
0:32:06 > 0:32:10- I don't know.- This is exceeding my expectations a thousand times.
0:32:10 > 0:32:12- Brilliant.- It's beautiful.
0:32:12 > 0:32:16'Upstairs from the second reception are the remaining two bedrooms
0:32:16 > 0:32:20'that come with the main house.'
0:32:20 > 0:32:23With these two rooms, they are pretty similar.
0:32:23 > 0:32:26They sort of mirror each other. Any one of them could be your master.
0:32:26 > 0:32:29- Take your pick, really.- Lovely. Really nicely done.
0:32:29 > 0:32:33- They're beautiful. - I love the open feel of it.
0:32:33 > 0:32:37'The other bedroom next door again comes with an open-plan en suite
0:32:37 > 0:32:41'and there's also a cosy study area up here, too.
0:32:41 > 0:32:44'Adjoining the main residence is the second large barn,
0:32:44 > 0:32:47'containing the two five-star holiday cottages,
0:32:47 > 0:32:51'where the immaculate interior continues.
0:32:51 > 0:32:55'They each have an open-plan kitchen-cum-living area
0:32:55 > 0:32:58'and two en suite bedrooms apiece.
0:32:58 > 0:33:01'The owners currently let out the holiday cottages
0:33:01 > 0:33:04'for 45 weeks of the year, yielding a very handsome
0:33:04 > 0:33:09'yearly return of approximately £25,000 gross.
0:33:09 > 0:33:13'The land itself has a range of outbuildings and covers a massive 10 acres.
0:33:13 > 0:33:17'It's divided into lawned gardens and three paddocks
0:33:17 > 0:33:20'that are home to donkeys and gorgeous alpacas
0:33:20 > 0:33:24'which could be another breed to add to the kids' animal wish list.'
0:33:24 > 0:33:30I really think this could be our perfect home.
0:33:30 > 0:33:36- OK.- John, what are you thinking? - It's very attractive.
0:33:36 > 0:33:39Now that you've been told it's going to be your perfect home?
0:33:39 > 0:33:43I think... Why are we asking me? She's obviously made her mind up!
0:33:43 > 0:33:46Let's have a think about the money because it's the final time
0:33:46 > 0:33:50we've got to go through this rigorous process of guessing
0:33:50 > 0:33:54how much this place is worth. This is clearly an exceptional property
0:33:54 > 0:33:56in a very, very nice area.
0:33:56 > 0:34:02- Go on, Rachel.- I'm going to say 800.- 800, yeah.
0:34:02 > 0:34:05- Well...- That would be fair enough, really.
0:34:05 > 0:34:08This is an exceptional property with 10 acres.
0:34:08 > 0:34:13- I would say just a little bit over 800.- A little bit over 800.
0:34:13 > 0:34:17Well, 12 months ago it was considerably over £800,000,
0:34:17 > 0:34:21this was on the market for 950.
0:34:21 > 0:34:24The good news is that if you really want it,
0:34:24 > 0:34:29- if you were to write a cheque for £695,000...- No way!
0:34:29 > 0:34:33- You could have it.- Really?- Yep. Right place, right time, mate.
0:34:33 > 0:34:38- It is very special. I really want it.- Ha-ha-ha!
0:34:38 > 0:34:42- I'm actually flabbergasted. - You're speechless, aren't you?
0:34:42 > 0:34:46Go and have a good look, go and work out how you will
0:34:46 > 0:34:49accommodate your new life in this extraordinary building.
0:34:49 > 0:34:53- We already have, but we'll go anyway. - Go and enjoy yourselves.
0:34:53 > 0:34:55Wander around it, soak it all up.
0:34:55 > 0:34:59- And I will drag you away from here later on.- Excellent. Thank you.
0:34:59 > 0:35:04Enjoy. Brilliant. The mystery house has done it once again.
0:35:04 > 0:35:07A fantastic price representing incredible value for money.
0:35:07 > 0:35:10I have to say, I see lots of properties on this show
0:35:10 > 0:35:13but this one really is quite exceptional.
0:35:14 > 0:35:18Just under budget at £695,000,
0:35:18 > 0:35:22The mystery package combines a stunning and characterful home
0:35:22 > 0:35:24with a ready-made holiday-let business
0:35:24 > 0:35:27and a smallholding in grounds that cover some 10 acres
0:35:27 > 0:35:29of glorious Carmarthenshire countryside.
0:35:29 > 0:35:33The exquisite renovations include eight ensuite bedrooms,
0:35:33 > 0:35:36five reception rooms and a country kitchen.
0:35:36 > 0:35:39And outside, the extensive outbuildings
0:35:39 > 0:35:41make the potential here endless.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44Total surprise, really. I was not anticipating this.
0:35:44 > 0:35:47All the potential is there, the flexibility is there.
0:35:47 > 0:35:51And whilst I would always like to personalise a property,
0:35:51 > 0:35:53Rachel wouldn't change a thing.
0:35:53 > 0:35:56I absolutely love this. I'm really excited about this.
0:35:56 > 0:35:59If we were to come in here, the first thing you'd do would be to get
0:35:59 > 0:36:02a website up and running, wouldn't it, and maybe contact
0:36:02 > 0:36:05the mountain-biking centres locally and things like that.
0:36:05 > 0:36:09You could do it all year around then. I very nearly cried.
0:36:09 > 0:36:12It is just absolutely beautiful, everything I ever wanted in a house.
0:36:12 > 0:36:14I couldn't have picked a better one myself.
0:36:14 > 0:36:18- Right, guys, moved in yet? - Several times over!
0:36:18 > 0:36:21It's a terrific property. I knew you'd love it.
0:36:21 > 0:36:25But we have given you three in all to have a look at.
0:36:25 > 0:36:28They're all very good on their own merits.
0:36:28 > 0:36:30Let's go away and have a think about all of them
0:36:30 > 0:36:33- before you make your final decision. - OK.- But I'm glad you liked it.
0:36:33 > 0:36:36It's what mystery houses are all about.
0:36:41 > 0:36:45The Brecon Beacons make perfect holiday let territory,
0:36:45 > 0:36:49as the landscape here really lends itself to outdoor leisure pursuits,
0:36:49 > 0:36:52attracting nearly 4,000,000 visitors a year.
0:36:52 > 0:36:55Earlier in the week, I went to get a taste of what's on offer
0:36:55 > 0:36:59and met up with Chris White, who's been teaching paragliding
0:36:59 > 0:37:01in the Black Mountains for over a decade.
0:37:03 > 0:37:06It's one of these things that I often see, you look up and think,
0:37:06 > 0:37:10oh, you lucky devil, that must be such a wonderful experience.
0:37:10 > 0:37:14Flying is man's oldest dream. We're the first generation that can just go out and do it at will.
0:37:14 > 0:37:18- We're so lucky.- Is it a very popular sport or is it still quite niche?
0:37:18 > 0:37:23Not really. There's about between 4,000 and 5,000 pilots in the UK.
0:37:23 > 0:37:26It's a lot more popular abroad. There are about 30,000 pilots
0:37:26 > 0:37:28in France, hang gliders and paragliders.
0:37:28 > 0:37:30But you've been doing it for 13 years so.
0:37:30 > 0:37:35Me, a novice, how long would it take me to learn how to fly,
0:37:35 > 0:37:38get my own rig and be able to come and do it on my own?
0:37:38 > 0:37:42Generally, it takes about 10 days or so to work your way through
0:37:42 > 0:37:45the school and achieve the qualifications that you need
0:37:45 > 0:37:47to just go out and fly solo, unsupervised.
0:37:47 > 0:37:52And the rough cost of a basic rig for an entry-level beginner like me?
0:37:52 > 0:37:55To buy all the kit, so glider, harness, reserve,
0:37:55 > 0:38:00you're looking at about, if you bought everything new, about £3,500.
0:38:00 > 0:38:03- You say reserve, so you've got a reserve parachute as well?- Yeah.
0:38:03 > 0:38:06Brilliant, I'm so glad you said that, ha-ha!
0:38:06 > 0:38:10The earliest form of paragliding was during the First World War
0:38:10 > 0:38:13when Navy vessels towed men in parachutes to get a view
0:38:13 > 0:38:16of possible enemy craft, but it wasn't until the 1960s
0:38:16 > 0:38:20that the sport was really developed.
0:38:20 > 0:38:24I'm taking to the skies in tandem with Chris. We're wearing helmets
0:38:24 > 0:38:28and harnesses attached to the fabric wing that will hold us in the air.
0:38:28 > 0:38:31All kitted up and ready for launch,
0:38:31 > 0:38:35we just need a gust of wind to fill the wing and we're away.
0:38:47 > 0:38:50Paragliding is best suited to fair weather, and once launched,
0:38:50 > 0:38:55pilots look for warm pockets of rising air which they ride upwards.
0:38:55 > 0:38:58It's possible to cover enormous distances
0:38:58 > 0:39:02and the world record is just over 300 miles.
0:39:02 > 0:39:04Oh, beautiful!
0:39:04 > 0:39:08Wow. Absolutely fantastic.
0:39:08 > 0:39:11This unique experience offers a bird's eye view
0:39:11 > 0:39:16of Wales in all its glory. And, for me, this truly is a fantastic
0:39:16 > 0:39:20and exhilarating way of taking in those amazing views.
0:39:28 > 0:39:31With our house hunt at an end,
0:39:31 > 0:39:34it's time to find out what decisions our buyers have made.
0:39:36 > 0:39:40- Hi, guys.- Hi.- How are you? - Good, thanks.
0:39:40 > 0:39:44- Good. Have you been thinking? - Yeah, long and hard.- Good.
0:39:44 > 0:39:46Lots of things to consider.
0:39:46 > 0:39:48Quite an interesting experience, I hope, for you.
0:39:48 > 0:39:52- How have you found it, John? - Interesting, to say the least.
0:39:52 > 0:39:55It all started with a very interesting renovation
0:39:55 > 0:39:58- and conversion. You loved the kitchen.- Gorgeous.
0:39:58 > 0:40:01They'd worked really, really well with all the wood.
0:40:01 > 0:40:06It was a very homely feel, the heart of the home, what we were after.
0:40:06 > 0:40:11It was just that the house didn't offer the space that we needed,
0:40:11 > 0:40:14unless you'd undertaken some quite substantial extra work.
0:40:14 > 0:40:17But it was fine on the ground floor, wasn't it?
0:40:17 > 0:40:21We had that great big family living room plus the two conservatories
0:40:21 > 0:40:24and so forth. And the annexe, but it was this fifth bedroom
0:40:24 > 0:40:27that we were seeking that didn't quite deliver.
0:40:27 > 0:40:31It offered that with the annex. If we look at the logistical aspects
0:40:31 > 0:40:35of trying to incorporate that into the main house,
0:40:35 > 0:40:37it was one step too far, I think, for us, on that front.
0:40:37 > 0:40:40So in order to try and incorporate you all under one roof,
0:40:40 > 0:40:43we took you to a very different style of building,
0:40:43 > 0:40:471960s, that huge sprawling pile.
0:40:47 > 0:40:51It did grow on both of you, quite rapidly.
0:40:51 > 0:40:53Yes, yes, it did. It was the space,
0:40:53 > 0:40:57really, what if offered internally, all under one roof.
0:40:57 > 0:41:01There was flexibility, scope to put our mark on the property.
0:41:01 > 0:41:04But we are after a bit of a change of lifestyle,
0:41:04 > 0:41:08and I feel that that property was just offering us
0:41:08 > 0:41:11the same kind of house that we have now,
0:41:11 > 0:41:13- with a little bit of extra land.- OK.
0:41:13 > 0:41:16Well, then we let you sleep on it and we woke you up
0:41:16 > 0:41:19for our final day's househunting
0:41:19 > 0:41:21and we took you to the mystery house.
0:41:21 > 0:41:27You wanted charm, character, the rural dream, an income.
0:41:27 > 0:41:29What didn't the mystery house have, then?
0:41:29 > 0:41:33Nothing. It was absolutely perfect.
0:41:33 > 0:41:35We couldn't have hand-picked it better ourselves.
0:41:35 > 0:41:39I was absolutely moved to tears. I've never, ever had that reaction
0:41:39 > 0:41:41in a house before. I walked in
0:41:41 > 0:41:44and I just wanted to cry. It was beautiful.
0:41:44 > 0:41:49Well, no surprise, I suspect, which one is your favourite.
0:41:49 > 0:41:52The big question is, what happens next? Can you buy it?
0:41:52 > 0:41:55- I mean, the price was extraordinary. - Without a doubt.
0:41:55 > 0:41:58I think it goes to show what you can get when you step
0:41:58 > 0:42:02outside the National Park. But even so, it's well within our budget
0:42:02 > 0:42:06and we'll be looking to pay a second visit to the property.
0:42:06 > 0:42:10I'm delighted that we've got there. It's been a real treat
0:42:10 > 0:42:13and I hope to hear some good news very shortly that you're moving in.
0:42:13 > 0:42:16- That would be perfect, wouldn't it?- Absolutely.
0:42:16 > 0:42:19Brilliant, guys. Well, congratulations and, as ever,
0:42:19 > 0:42:22- let us know how you get on.- Will do. Thank you.- Best of luck.- Thanks.
0:42:25 > 0:42:29Well, a week of glorious weather, a fantastic budget
0:42:29 > 0:42:34and some very beautiful houses have delivered the perfect happy ending.
0:42:34 > 0:42:36John and Rachel came out here perfectly prepared
0:42:36 > 0:42:39to compromise on what their dream home may eventually be
0:42:39 > 0:42:41but the good news is, well,
0:42:41 > 0:42:44the Welsh property market has offered up the perfect solution,
0:42:44 > 0:42:48a property that really does fit them and their family like a glove.
0:42:48 > 0:42:52And they, as I, am absolutely delighted.
0:42:52 > 0:42:56John and Rachel went back to the mystery house for a second viewing
0:42:56 > 0:42:59but they need to secure a buyer for their home before
0:42:59 > 0:43:01they can put in an offer, so fingers crossed
0:43:01 > 0:43:05they can sell up quickly and make the mystery property their very own.
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