0:00:02 > 0:00:04Welcome to a blustery Escape to the Country.
0:00:04 > 0:00:08We're starting within the walls of one of the most impressive examples
0:00:08 > 0:00:13of 18th-century military architecture anywhere in the UK.
0:00:13 > 0:00:15But, as ever, the question is, where are we?
0:00:15 > 0:00:18Join me in a few moments and I'll tell you.
0:00:36 > 0:00:40On today's show, we're helping a couple leave behind the daily grind
0:00:40 > 0:00:44for somewhere more stimulating to their senses.
0:00:44 > 0:00:45Smell the newness!
0:00:45 > 0:00:47'There are strange sights.'
0:00:47 > 0:00:49It's an unusual shape!
0:00:50 > 0:00:52'And the right sort of sounds.'
0:00:52 > 0:00:55- You've cheered me up, actually, with that price ticket.- Good.
0:00:55 > 0:00:59Well, today, I'm in the Highlands of Scotland
0:00:59 > 0:01:02and this is Fort George, just outside Inverness.
0:01:02 > 0:01:07This impressive fortress, surrounded by up to a mile of perimeter walls,
0:01:07 > 0:01:09was once home to 2,000 men
0:01:09 > 0:01:12and defended by 40 cannon.
0:01:12 > 0:01:14It was built back in 1746
0:01:14 > 0:01:17following the defeat of Bonnie Prince Charlie at Culloden.
0:01:17 > 0:01:21The idea was to try and quell future Scottish unrest.
0:01:21 > 0:01:26The good news is that since then, the Highlands have remained relatively peaceful
0:01:26 > 0:01:29and it's that now famous peace and tranquillity
0:01:29 > 0:01:33that make this area such a popular place in which to get away from it all.
0:01:35 > 0:01:37The crowning glory of the UK,
0:01:37 > 0:01:39the Highlands is the mountainous region
0:01:39 > 0:01:41lying in the far northern portion of Scotland.
0:01:43 > 0:01:45Cutting the land diagonally is Loch Ness,
0:01:45 > 0:01:49part of the Great Glen that almost splits Scotland in two.
0:01:50 > 0:01:52On the banks of the River Ness,
0:01:52 > 0:01:57Inverness is affectionately known as the capital of the Highlands.
0:01:57 > 0:02:00With scenery ranging from spectacular glens
0:02:00 > 0:02:01to snow-capped mountains,
0:02:01 > 0:02:04this area teems with natural beauty, mystery,
0:02:04 > 0:02:08and some of the UK's most dramatic backdrops imaginable.
0:02:08 > 0:02:11This is certainly a place with something for everyone,
0:02:11 > 0:02:14including, of course, today's buyers.
0:02:14 > 0:02:17So let's go and meet them and find out what they're after.
0:02:19 > 0:02:21And our couple, Steve and Helinka,
0:02:21 > 0:02:23couldn't be much further away from Scotland
0:02:23 > 0:02:26as they currently live in the town of Chesham, Buckinghamshire,
0:02:26 > 0:02:28right down in southeastern England.
0:02:28 > 0:02:30For almost two decades,
0:02:30 > 0:02:33home has been this three-bedroomed 1960s bungalow.
0:02:33 > 0:02:37But for the past five years, they've been planning a radical change.
0:02:37 > 0:02:40One of the key reasons for wanting to move
0:02:40 > 0:02:44is that we've holidayed for the last ten years in Scotland.
0:02:44 > 0:02:47We're absolutely in love with the scenery,
0:02:47 > 0:02:48the mountain vista.
0:02:48 > 0:02:51The fresh air is just brilliant
0:02:51 > 0:02:53and just getting away from town life
0:02:53 > 0:02:55is ideally what we want.
0:02:55 > 0:02:58We've lived in commuter land for long enough now
0:02:58 > 0:03:01and it's time to pursue other things in the countryside.
0:03:02 > 0:03:05The proximity to London has had its benefits, however,
0:03:05 > 0:03:08allowing them to plough their energies into their careers.
0:03:08 > 0:03:10Helinka as a local government officer,
0:03:10 > 0:03:13and Steve running his own Health and Safety consultancy.
0:03:13 > 0:03:15So now, despite their age,
0:03:15 > 0:03:19they can afford to semi-retire and focus on their real loves.
0:03:20 > 0:03:22A garage is essential.
0:03:22 > 0:03:24I've now got a collection of three motorbikes.
0:03:24 > 0:03:26They are motorbikes that I ride.
0:03:26 > 0:03:29I don't collect bikes just to look at. I ride bikes.
0:03:29 > 0:03:34And the roads in Scotland are phenomenal for riding motorcycles.
0:03:34 > 0:03:37I'd like the opportunity to do a lot more gardening.
0:03:37 > 0:03:40Although I grow bits and pieces here,
0:03:40 > 0:03:44and I've tried growing things in pots, which is fairly limited,
0:03:44 > 0:03:48but I've had a bit of success, which is quite motivating.
0:03:48 > 0:03:51But when it comes to the house, German shepherds
0:03:51 > 0:03:55Jack and Lily are a high priority.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57What we've really struggled with here is trying to keep
0:03:57 > 0:04:00the house from being covered in dog hair.
0:04:00 > 0:04:04Having dogs is a must to have a utility room.
0:04:05 > 0:04:06All that remains, then,
0:04:06 > 0:04:09is to find out the budget they've earmarked for this Highlands move.
0:04:09 > 0:04:13If you can find us the right house with the right view
0:04:13 > 0:04:18with a price band between 300,000 and £375,000,
0:04:18 > 0:04:20- I think we'll both be very happy. - Definitely.
0:04:25 > 0:04:30Steve and Helinka would like to move to an area close to the Cairngorms National Park.
0:04:30 > 0:04:33So our house search will focus in the region to the west of the Park
0:04:33 > 0:04:37and in the majestic countryside surrounding Loch Ness.
0:04:37 > 0:04:39So we're all meeting up on Scottish turf
0:04:39 > 0:04:42to finalise the specifics of their prospective move.
0:04:44 > 0:04:46Well, Helinka, Steve, welcome to Scotland.
0:04:46 > 0:04:49Or I should probably say, "Welcome back to Scotland".
0:04:49 > 0:04:51This is a part of the world you do know very well.
0:04:51 > 0:04:56- Very much so.- On your travels up here, have you managed to glean some clear idea
0:04:56 > 0:04:59of the sort of property that would really be of interest for you?
0:04:59 > 0:05:01We're looking for somewhere with lots of space
0:05:01 > 0:05:04that allows us to walk around,
0:05:04 > 0:05:06but we can still go shopping if we need to.
0:05:06 > 0:05:10We may want to pop and maybe find part-time work or develop businesses.
0:05:10 > 0:05:14So we don't want to be too remote and be away from people totally,
0:05:14 > 0:05:16but we do want to be fairly remote.
0:05:16 > 0:05:21And something with the beautiful outlook to take in and say, "That's our view."
0:05:21 > 0:05:24Well, we're not short of views up here, that has to be said!
0:05:24 > 0:05:28You hinted on the idea that you may be starting up some sort of business.
0:05:28 > 0:05:30Can you give me an idea of what that might involve?
0:05:30 > 0:05:33Maybe a property with an opportunity to have a holiday let.
0:05:33 > 0:05:36I don't really want to do bed and breakfast,
0:05:36 > 0:05:38but an opportunity to make a bit of money.
0:05:38 > 0:05:42- We thought about maybe motorbike touring holidays.- Yes.
0:05:42 > 0:05:44We're fairly open-minded, really.
0:05:44 > 0:05:46- Three bedrooms?- Yeah, about that.
0:05:46 > 0:05:49Not very much more than that. We're not looking at a massive property.
0:05:49 > 0:05:52We've got three to show you, including our mystery house.
0:05:52 > 0:05:56There's a bit of snow on the ground behind us. I hope that's not going to get worse!
0:05:56 > 0:06:00- The sun is shining. - It's a beautiful day. Looking forward to it.- Come on, then.
0:06:03 > 0:06:07Armed with a top budget of £375,000,
0:06:07 > 0:06:10Steve and Helinka are after a home with at least three bedrooms...
0:06:12 > 0:06:14..a separate utility room to help with their two dogs
0:06:14 > 0:06:18and decent garage space for Steve's motorbike collection.
0:06:18 > 0:06:20A bonus would be some business potential
0:06:20 > 0:06:23but fundamental to their move is the outlook.
0:06:23 > 0:06:26They must have an awe-inspiring view.
0:06:26 > 0:06:30And we have a superb variety of Highland properties to serve up,
0:06:30 > 0:06:33all with views as a top priority,
0:06:33 > 0:06:35but I'll be keeping the price a guessing game
0:06:35 > 0:06:37until we've had a good look round first.
0:06:37 > 0:06:40Then, to finish up, we've got the mystery house,
0:06:40 > 0:06:43which delivers on views and a whole lot more.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52We're starting our property search north of Loch Ness
0:06:52 > 0:06:54on the outskirts of Kiltarlity.
0:06:56 > 0:07:00This historic town can trace its origins back to the founding of a now ruinous priory
0:07:00 > 0:07:03way back in the 13th century.
0:07:04 > 0:07:06But our journey takes us up to higher ground
0:07:06 > 0:07:09in which our first property takes pride of place.
0:07:12 > 0:07:15So there we go. Property number one.
0:07:15 > 0:07:17In splendid isolation.
0:07:19 > 0:07:21- With a view!- A spectacular view!
0:07:21 > 0:07:22Absolutely stunning,
0:07:22 > 0:07:25with the snow on it, just to set the scene.
0:07:25 > 0:07:30And we've got you this property which, actually, is enormous.
0:07:30 > 0:07:33It's got about 14 separate rooms in it!
0:07:33 > 0:07:35- Wow!- Really?- 14!
0:07:35 > 0:07:37Not including the garage, Steve!
0:07:37 > 0:07:40- All important.- All important.
0:07:40 > 0:07:43So we've taken care of the bikes. What are your first impressions?
0:07:43 > 0:07:46- Um...- Very impressed. - I love the view!- Yep.
0:07:46 > 0:07:49- Shall we have a look? - Yeah.- Let's do it.
0:07:49 > 0:07:52'Built in the early 1980s,
0:07:52 > 0:07:54'this deceptively large chalet bungalow
0:07:54 > 0:07:58'is partly furnished and in need of some modernisation.
0:07:58 > 0:08:01'So Steve and Helinka will have to use their imaginations
0:08:01 > 0:08:03'to see how they could make the space work for them.'
0:08:03 > 0:08:05Come in.
0:08:05 > 0:08:09In terms of a way to greet you, what are your first thoughts?
0:08:09 > 0:08:10It's almost a room in itself.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13This is one of the 14 that I counted up.
0:08:13 > 0:08:16There's another one here. Come and have a look.
0:08:16 > 0:08:20This is currently seen as the main living room.
0:08:20 > 0:08:25Over there is a working open fire. So wood or coal.
0:08:25 > 0:08:28It's a decent-sized room and it's a good shape.
0:08:28 > 0:08:32- So far, so good?- So far, so good. - Come on, then.
0:08:32 > 0:08:33This is the kitchen.
0:08:33 > 0:08:37Which is a bit of an odd one, in a way.
0:08:39 > 0:08:41Helinka's nodding her head, yes.
0:08:41 > 0:08:47- It would benefit from being re-thought, I think!- Definitely!
0:08:47 > 0:08:49Through there is a really generous utility room
0:08:49 > 0:08:51with a downstairs shower.
0:08:51 > 0:08:53So I'm thinking muddy dogs,
0:08:53 > 0:08:55they could be out there quite comfortably.
0:08:55 > 0:08:57Right. So this is a bit of a thing on the list.
0:08:57 > 0:09:00But let's continue our exploration through here.
0:09:03 > 0:09:04This one is interesting.
0:09:04 > 0:09:09This, the current owners had used as their master bedroom
0:09:09 > 0:09:12- because it had access out to the garden...- Right.
0:09:12 > 0:09:13..with these double doors.
0:09:13 > 0:09:15But there is another master bedroom upstairs,
0:09:15 > 0:09:18and I would turn this into another reception room
0:09:18 > 0:09:20or a snug or study, or whatever.
0:09:20 > 0:09:23It's a very attractive view through the doors, so why wouldn't you?
0:09:23 > 0:09:27I think there's a lot of opportunity here.
0:09:27 > 0:09:29It's not unpleasant as it is,
0:09:29 > 0:09:32- and I think it would allow you to grow into it.- Yeah.
0:09:32 > 0:09:36'Including this room with double doors out to the back,
0:09:36 > 0:09:38'there are a further three rooms down on the ground floor
0:09:38 > 0:09:40'that have been designated as bedrooms
0:09:40 > 0:09:43'and all are served by a large family bathroom.
0:09:44 > 0:09:48'The remaining three bedrooms are all up on the first floor.'
0:09:48 > 0:09:52And this is the master bedroom, complete with en-suite.
0:09:52 > 0:09:53Shower in there, too.
0:09:55 > 0:09:56Yes, have a look.
0:09:59 > 0:10:01It's an unusual shape!
0:10:01 > 0:10:04It is. The only thing I can say in its defence
0:10:04 > 0:10:08is that it does allow you yet more windows to enjoy the views.
0:10:08 > 0:10:11Which obviously just get better the higher up you get in here.
0:10:11 > 0:10:15So how are we doing, out of ten, on property number one, Helinka?
0:10:15 > 0:10:19- I would say seven.- Seven. - Seven.- Steve?
0:10:19 > 0:10:22Downstairs, very good. Disappointed with upstairs.
0:10:22 > 0:10:26- I'm hedging my bets on a six. - A six.- I won't make a seven.
0:10:26 > 0:10:28Let's see if we can get a few more points in the garden.
0:10:28 > 0:10:29Come and have a look.
0:10:32 > 0:10:36'Outside, the grounds extend to around 1.5 acres.
0:10:36 > 0:10:38'It's been divided into formal and wild gardens
0:10:38 > 0:10:41'with several paved and gravelled areas.
0:10:42 > 0:10:47'In Scotland, properties are usually marketed on an "offers over" basis
0:10:47 > 0:10:50'and although 20% over is a general rule of thumb,
0:10:50 > 0:10:53'there are no rules to say that a lower offer would be refused.'
0:10:53 > 0:10:57So, let's have a think about the value of it.
0:10:57 > 0:10:59What would be a realistic asking price, do you think,
0:10:59 > 0:11:01for property one, Helinka?
0:11:01 > 0:11:03I wish you hadn't started with me!
0:11:03 > 0:11:07I would say, um...325.
0:11:07 > 0:11:10- 325, yeah. Steve?- I'm going to go 315, actually.
0:11:10 > 0:11:12- 315.- Yeah.- OK.
0:11:12 > 0:11:16That's very interesting. I think you're rather prudent, actually.
0:11:16 > 0:11:23Because this is on the market for offers over 300,000.
0:11:23 > 0:11:27- You've cheered me up, actually, with that price ticket.- Good.
0:11:27 > 0:11:30Our first property comes in well under budget.
0:11:30 > 0:11:33It's a detached, relatively modern build that has the flexibility
0:11:33 > 0:11:36to provide three reception rooms,
0:11:36 > 0:11:38a kitchen/breakfast room with...
0:11:41 > 0:11:47Above all, the property is enveloped by the spectacular Highland scenery.
0:11:47 > 0:11:49Figured it all out?
0:11:49 > 0:11:51Um, thinking about it, yeah.
0:11:51 > 0:11:55- It's a good price, let's face it! - It is a good price.
0:11:55 > 0:11:59On a day like this, if anything's going to sell a property in the Highlands, a blue sky will help!
0:11:59 > 0:12:05- Definitely.- Right. Let's get going to property number two. Come on.
0:12:16 > 0:12:19The remote wilderness of the Cairngorms National Park
0:12:19 > 0:12:22is home to a rich variety of wildlife,
0:12:22 > 0:12:25offering sanctuary to many rare and endangered species.
0:12:25 > 0:12:29But one native resident facing a serious battle for survival
0:12:29 > 0:12:32is the critically endangered Scottish wildcat.
0:12:32 > 0:12:35I've come to meet Doug Richardson at the Highland Wildlife Park
0:12:35 > 0:12:38to find out more about the plight of this elusive creature.
0:12:40 > 0:12:43The wildcat itself isn't that familiar to many people,
0:12:43 > 0:12:48but it is, nonetheless, you would say, a very iconic image of The Highlands.
0:12:48 > 0:12:51- Absolutely.- They've now got this lovely title, The Highland Tiger,
0:12:51 > 0:12:57which would suggest something very ferocious and something that can look after itself in the wild.
0:12:57 > 0:12:59But their numbers, as you allude to, have plummeted.
0:12:59 > 0:13:02What's threatened them? What's caused the change in population?
0:13:02 > 0:13:06The most important problem and the thing that is driving them to extinction
0:13:06 > 0:13:11is cross-breeding, hybridising with feral domestic cats.
0:13:11 > 0:13:13'Once widespread across the UK,
0:13:13 > 0:13:18'there are now less than 400 pure-bred wildcats left in existence.
0:13:18 > 0:13:22'Captive breeding is probably the last hope to ensure their survival.'
0:13:27 > 0:13:29These walkways, the aerial walkways, are interesting.
0:13:29 > 0:13:32It allows us to see him quite clearly as he moves between enclosures.
0:13:32 > 0:13:34What's the purpose of this?
0:13:34 > 0:13:38I think why these work so well is that cats can get above the visitors' heads.
0:13:38 > 0:13:44And for most carnivores, if they're above something they see as potentially threatening,
0:13:44 > 0:13:46they'll feel more secure.
0:13:46 > 0:13:51'On average, wildcats are 50% larger than their domestic cousins,
0:13:51 > 0:13:53'with a wider face and jaw.
0:13:53 > 0:13:55'And they can manage to run at speeds of 30mph.
0:13:55 > 0:13:58'But it's impossible to tame them.'
0:13:58 > 0:14:02How do you distinguish between a genuine pure-bred wildcat
0:14:02 > 0:14:04and one of these hybrid cats?
0:14:04 > 0:14:07There's a number of things. If you look at the stripe down his back,
0:14:07 > 0:14:10it wiggles, it's not a straight line.
0:14:10 > 0:14:12On a domestic cat, it'll be a straight line.
0:14:12 > 0:14:15There are four lines on the top of his head
0:14:15 > 0:14:20that meet in the centre. You wouldn't get that on a domestic cat.
0:14:20 > 0:14:22Potentially, their offspring
0:14:22 > 0:14:27will play an even more significant role in the species.
0:14:27 > 0:14:30It's good to see, Doug, and let's face it,
0:14:30 > 0:14:33the Highlands wouldn't be quite the same without their tigers!
0:14:33 > 0:14:35Absolutely not.
0:14:47 > 0:14:49For our second property, we're travelling further south
0:14:49 > 0:14:55and closer to Loch Ness, where our destination overlooks the hills in Drumnadrochit.
0:14:55 > 0:14:59In the shadow of the snow-capped Craig Monie,
0:14:59 > 0:15:01the village of Drumnadrochit is located in a sheltered valley
0:15:01 > 0:15:05that runs to the world's most famous loch.
0:15:05 > 0:15:08But a mile away from the village and high into the remote hills,
0:15:08 > 0:15:10we come to our second property.
0:15:12 > 0:15:14OK. Property number two.
0:15:14 > 0:15:19I know we're all distracted by that lovely view over there, which is what makes it,
0:15:19 > 0:15:22but just feast your eyes on that.
0:15:22 > 0:15:24What do you think, Helinka?
0:15:24 > 0:15:26It looks a very lovely house to me.
0:15:26 > 0:15:28I'm wondering where the garage is.
0:15:28 > 0:15:32There is a spot for a garage. Don't panic.
0:15:32 > 0:15:34Steve?
0:15:35 > 0:15:37- It's a new build.- It is a new build. It's only six months old.
0:15:37 > 0:15:39It's brand-spanking-new.
0:15:39 > 0:15:43There is nothing to have to do here. That's the joy of it.
0:15:43 > 0:15:47But it has been designed, as you can tell, really to soak in that lot.
0:15:47 > 0:15:49Come on, let's go in.
0:15:52 > 0:15:56- Smell the newness!- It smells of wood.- Doesn't it? Yeah.
0:15:56 > 0:15:58What do you reckon?
0:15:58 > 0:16:00I'm...I'm blown away.
0:16:00 > 0:16:02- It's amazing, isn't it?- It is.
0:16:02 > 0:16:06It is just so gorgeous. And on a day like this when it's really chilly outside,
0:16:06 > 0:16:13to come in here to the warmth, the sunlight, under-floor heating, space.
0:16:13 > 0:16:16It's all slick, all clean, all ready to go.
0:16:16 > 0:16:19- This is the hub that we were after. - Exactly.
0:16:19 > 0:16:21When it comes to the Highlands and views,
0:16:21 > 0:16:25this room doesn't get a lot better, really.
0:16:25 > 0:16:27It's beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.
0:16:27 > 0:16:28Amazing.
0:16:28 > 0:16:30Good!
0:16:30 > 0:16:33Well, this is the real kind of show stopper, I suppose,
0:16:33 > 0:16:35as rooms in this property go.
0:16:35 > 0:16:38But it does continue through here into the living room.
0:16:43 > 0:16:44There.
0:16:44 > 0:16:46Isn't that fun?
0:16:46 > 0:16:49- That is just an amazing woodburner! - It's great.
0:16:49 > 0:16:51Perfect.
0:16:51 > 0:16:54- Perfect.- It is, actually, yeah.
0:16:56 > 0:16:58Let's see what you think of the rest. Follow me, through here.
0:16:58 > 0:17:00Let's go up.
0:17:00 > 0:17:02'Smiles all round so far,
0:17:02 > 0:17:05'and there's still more to take in on the ground floor
0:17:05 > 0:17:07'with the requested utility for the dogs,
0:17:07 > 0:17:09'as well as a large and luxurious shower room.
0:17:09 > 0:17:13'And of the five bedroom in total, one is downstairs.
0:17:13 > 0:17:16'This double has its own en-suite shower room
0:17:16 > 0:17:19'and could be ideal for guests or for Steve's business.
0:17:19 > 0:17:23'The four remaining bedrooms are all upstairs
0:17:23 > 0:17:24'alongside a contemporary bathroom.
0:17:24 > 0:17:27'There are two decent-sized doubles,
0:17:27 > 0:17:29'one with dual-aspect windows
0:17:29 > 0:17:31'and the other with built-in wardrobes,
0:17:31 > 0:17:34'and a smaller double presented with a single bed.'
0:17:34 > 0:17:37Then finally, this is your one.
0:17:40 > 0:17:42- Very nice.- Yeah?
0:17:42 > 0:17:45Go round the corner. There's an en-suite tucked away there.
0:17:45 > 0:17:46Blimey! Another bathroom!
0:17:46 > 0:17:48It's not bad, is it?
0:17:48 > 0:17:50And again, lovely views through there.
0:17:50 > 0:17:53And the double aspect keeps it right.
0:17:53 > 0:17:56One thing we haven't really discussed much in either property so far
0:17:56 > 0:18:00is this idea of a business in the future.
0:18:00 > 0:18:04But this is a property, believe it or not, which I think has that potential for you.
0:18:04 > 0:18:07- Right.- All will become clear outside.
0:18:11 > 0:18:14'The garden is in the process of being landscaped
0:18:14 > 0:18:19'and has footings for a garage at an estimated build cost of £10,000.
0:18:19 > 0:18:22'But there's yet more to unveil.'
0:18:22 > 0:18:24Back to this idea of a business.
0:18:24 > 0:18:30Below us are preparations to produce the base of a holiday chalet.
0:18:30 > 0:18:36- OK.- The plot down there could be yours for about £15,000.
0:18:36 > 0:18:41- Right.- The developer who built this house is in the know.
0:18:41 > 0:18:46And he's confident that the chalet would probably cost about £40,000 to do.
0:18:46 > 0:18:50The real figure that we need to concern ourselves with is this.
0:18:50 > 0:18:52How much is the house worth?
0:18:52 > 0:18:55I think we're getting towards 330.
0:18:55 > 0:18:57330. Yep.
0:18:57 > 0:18:59Just over 300. I would have said so, too.
0:18:59 > 0:19:04However, this is on the market for £295,000.
0:19:04 > 0:19:06- Wow!- No!
0:19:06 > 0:19:12Yes! Add on our 65 grand for our garaging, our plot and our chalet...
0:19:12 > 0:19:14We're still under budget!
0:19:14 > 0:19:16You're still under budget at 360.
0:19:16 > 0:19:20Well under budget for offers over £295,000,
0:19:20 > 0:19:25Steve and Helinka could have first dibbs on this new build property.
0:19:25 > 0:19:29It comes with five bedrooms, a separate utility room
0:19:29 > 0:19:32and our buyers' dream kitchen/dining and family room.
0:19:32 > 0:19:35The plot has the potential for a large garage
0:19:35 > 0:19:38as well as the possibility to build a holiday chalet.
0:19:38 > 0:19:45Most importantly, it has the aspect and incredible panoramic views that will be hard to beat.
0:19:45 > 0:19:46Have you had enough?
0:19:46 > 0:19:48No!
0:19:48 > 0:19:50You can't get enough of this one, can you? It's beautiful!
0:19:50 > 0:19:54I just can't get over that. I think it's absolutely stunning.
0:19:54 > 0:19:56It is spectacular, isn't it?
0:19:56 > 0:19:58But there is one more house to come.
0:19:58 > 0:20:00Tomorrow, it's mystery house time.
0:20:00 > 0:20:02Will it better this? Can it better this?
0:20:02 > 0:20:04I'm intrigued to find out.
0:20:04 > 0:20:05Come on.
0:20:22 > 0:20:25'For our third and final property stop,
0:20:25 > 0:20:28'we're taking our buyers to the small hamlet of Errogie,
0:20:28 > 0:20:30'on the quieter southern side of Loch Ness,
0:20:30 > 0:20:34'and even closer to The Cairngorms National Park.
0:20:34 > 0:20:37'This is a tranquil and beautiful place,
0:20:37 > 0:20:39'perfect for forest and hill walking.
0:20:39 > 0:20:41'The nearest village is around four miles away
0:20:41 > 0:20:44'and is famous for the breathtaking Falls of Foyers.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47'And the mystery element for our final property
0:20:47 > 0:20:52'is that we're bringing a new business possibility right through the front door.'
0:20:52 > 0:20:54What do you think?
0:20:54 > 0:20:57Well, I'm looking to the right at the garage!
0:20:57 > 0:21:00There are three - three - double garages over there
0:21:00 > 0:21:02with an enormous space above,
0:21:02 > 0:21:04accessed by a stairway.
0:21:04 > 0:21:07So bags and bags of storage for you.
0:21:07 > 0:21:09It's an enormous property,
0:21:09 > 0:21:11built very recently, actually,
0:21:11 > 0:21:15within the last ten to 12 years or so.
0:21:15 > 0:21:17And when you look around us now at the views,
0:21:17 > 0:21:20the mountains, on a day like this,
0:21:20 > 0:21:22it's just sensational.
0:21:22 > 0:21:26- Right. Can't wait to have a look. - Come and look inside. It's wonderful.
0:21:26 > 0:21:29'Set in a two-acre plot, this modern mystery house
0:21:29 > 0:21:32'is a detached villa arranged over two floors.
0:21:32 > 0:21:35'It's by far the biggest of the properties we've seen so far.
0:21:35 > 0:21:40'We're by-passing the entrance hall and going straight into the heart of the home.'
0:21:40 > 0:21:43I'm very excited about what you think of this.
0:21:43 > 0:21:45Wow!
0:21:46 > 0:21:47It's a very open space!
0:21:47 > 0:21:49We talked about hubs of homes,
0:21:49 > 0:21:51but this is one of the best I've ever seen.
0:21:51 > 0:21:54- It feels very homely. - Yeah. Woodburner down there,
0:21:54 > 0:22:00a terrific snug in here with another woodburner. It's lovely.
0:22:00 > 0:22:03Have a look. It just kind of goes on, really.
0:22:03 > 0:22:04That's perfect.
0:22:04 > 0:22:07There's a fantastic utility area through there.
0:22:07 > 0:22:10A lovely big double sink, wellies, dogs, all that stuff.
0:22:10 > 0:22:11It's looking good.
0:22:11 > 0:22:14Now, in terms of sort of business potential,
0:22:14 > 0:22:17we hinted at it with our last property with the chalet option.
0:22:17 > 0:22:20This one has so many rooms in it,
0:22:20 > 0:22:23you could quite happily go down the B&B route, if you wanted to.
0:22:23 > 0:22:26I know you haven't really embraced that idea,
0:22:26 > 0:22:28but if you wanted to, it wouldn't be difficult.
0:22:28 > 0:22:31Because most of the bedrooms are all that way and upstairs.
0:22:31 > 0:22:33We'll deal with those in a moment.
0:22:33 > 0:22:36But the current master bedroom, curiously, is through here.
0:22:36 > 0:22:38Come and have a look.
0:22:40 > 0:22:42There.
0:22:43 > 0:22:47It's got a very cottagey feel again, even in here, hasn't it?
0:22:47 > 0:22:50Yeah. I love the way they've dressed it. It's an interesting eclectic mix
0:22:50 > 0:22:53in some respects. But for a modern house, it all works.
0:22:53 > 0:22:56It creates that feel, I think.
0:22:56 > 0:22:59'This house has an unconventional configuration
0:22:59 > 0:23:01'that could be zoned off for different uses.
0:23:01 > 0:23:05'The main living areas and master bedroom lie to one side of the property
0:23:05 > 0:23:07'and could almost be self-contained.
0:23:07 > 0:23:13'Then to the other side are a further three comfortably-sized ground floor double bedrooms
0:23:13 > 0:23:16'as well as a family bathroom complete with a roll-top bath.
0:23:16 > 0:23:19'However, there is another floor upstairs
0:23:19 > 0:23:21'where even more rooms await,
0:23:21 > 0:23:24'starting with a spacious en-suite guest bedroom.'
0:23:26 > 0:23:30Now, as you see up here, there is one huge bedroom over there which is finished.
0:23:30 > 0:23:33Behind these five doors
0:23:33 > 0:23:38there are five rooms which are currently unfinished and they're in this sort of state.
0:23:38 > 0:23:43- OK.- So it's at first fix stage, I suppose one would say.
0:23:43 > 0:23:45- Right, OK.- Blown away? - I am, yeah.- Good.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48I think it's a really, really interesting property.
0:23:48 > 0:23:49- OK. Shall we go outside?- Yeah.
0:23:49 > 0:23:52Have a look at the land and talk about the price.
0:23:54 > 0:23:59'Despite the enormous size and alternative business potential to what Steve and Helinka had in mind,
0:23:59 > 0:24:02'I think the mystery house has really got them thinking.
0:24:02 > 0:24:06'But the question, of course, is whether or not the figures will stack up.'
0:24:09 > 0:24:11Look at this!
0:24:11 > 0:24:15- Who said Scotland doesn't get sun? - Who said that? On a day like this, you could sell anything!
0:24:15 > 0:24:17He says, hopefully!
0:24:17 > 0:24:21As you can see, the mirror image of the veranda there at the back.
0:24:21 > 0:24:26And a similar arrangement behind the double garages, Steve.
0:24:26 > 0:24:28The house, there's a home potential to it,
0:24:28 > 0:24:32but the amount of space out here is also awesome for the dogs as well.
0:24:32 > 0:24:35- They'd absolutely love this, wouldn't they?- They would.
0:24:35 > 0:24:39But all of that is going to depend on how much this is priced at.
0:24:39 > 0:24:43Hmm. Well, I'd say top end of our budget
0:24:43 > 0:24:47given the amount of house there is. 380, 390?
0:24:47 > 0:24:49OK. 380, 390. Steve?
0:24:49 > 0:24:52I think we've pushed it. I think we're now 390.
0:24:52 > 0:24:57390. They are looking for £375,000 for this.
0:24:57 > 0:25:00- Blimey!- 375?!
0:25:02 > 0:25:05Bang on budget, the mystery house is a modern detached home
0:25:05 > 0:25:08meeting all of Steve and Helinka's requirements.
0:25:08 > 0:25:11It has an open plan kitchen/dining and family room
0:25:11 > 0:25:13with a separate snug and utility.
0:25:13 > 0:25:15Four bedrooms are on the ground floor
0:25:15 > 0:25:18and a further six upstairs
0:25:18 > 0:25:20that could be ideal as letting bedrooms.
0:25:20 > 0:25:24The house and triple garage sit in over two acres of land
0:25:24 > 0:25:27surrounded by unspoilt views of the Scottish Highlands.
0:25:30 > 0:25:33I thought that was rather exciting, as I hoped it would be.
0:25:33 > 0:25:36- It was.- Lots to think about.
0:25:36 > 0:25:38Tonnes! I think we've confused you!
0:25:38 > 0:25:41- You have!- Lots to think about.- Yeah.
0:25:55 > 0:25:58Well, you two. What an exciting week we've had!
0:25:58 > 0:26:03But I get the feeling there are two real contenders on the list.
0:26:03 > 0:26:05If we'd have had this conversation yesterday,
0:26:05 > 0:26:09we'd have given you a definite answer. It was going to be property two.
0:26:09 > 0:26:13Having thought about it, I think our focus now is the mystery house.
0:26:13 > 0:26:18Well, property two, you wanted a view, and boy, did you get it there!
0:26:18 > 0:26:20And I thought that was it. Done deal!
0:26:20 > 0:26:25The heart said, "Let me sign on the dotted line now."
0:26:25 > 0:26:28And I could have done that yesterday.
0:26:28 > 0:26:33So when we set off this morning, to go and look at our mystery house,
0:26:33 > 0:26:35what were your thoughts on that one?
0:26:35 > 0:26:38I was thinking, "The Waltons", if I'm honest!
0:26:38 > 0:26:41When we got inside, I think this vision of the hub,
0:26:41 > 0:26:46of a very warm, cosy home with plenty of space really came to the fore.
0:26:46 > 0:26:48It had a wow factor for me.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51It was very quirky as you walked in.
0:26:51 > 0:26:53Part of me kept thinking, "Is it going to be too big for us",
0:26:53 > 0:26:55but it was very much a home
0:26:55 > 0:26:59and it didn't feel as though the two of us and the dogs would be rattling around in it.
0:26:59 > 0:27:02So we have, I suspect, reached a decision
0:27:02 > 0:27:05that is now focused on the mystery house.
0:27:05 > 0:27:07What happens next?
0:27:07 > 0:27:10Seriously, seriously contemplate a second viewing.
0:27:10 > 0:27:13I'm delighted. Absolutely delighted!
0:27:13 > 0:27:16Best of luck, and, as always, let us know how it goes with the viewing.
0:27:16 > 0:27:20- And let's hope we hear that you've moved in fairly quickly.- Will do.
0:27:20 > 0:27:24- Thank you very much for the experience. We've thoroughly enjoyed it.- Pleasure.
0:27:29 > 0:27:34We've seen so many spectacular views up here this week.
0:27:34 > 0:27:37Trying to pick a favourite is nigh-on impossible.
0:27:37 > 0:27:39And as for today's buyers,
0:27:39 > 0:27:40Steve and Helinka, with any luck,
0:27:40 > 0:27:43are now well on their way to calling this place home.
0:27:43 > 0:27:47Because that, of course, is what this search has been all about.
0:27:47 > 0:27:52And as for the chance to wake up to this every day for the rest of their lives, who can blame them?
0:27:52 > 0:27:54Lucky devils!
0:27:54 > 0:27:58Steve and Helinka are already planning their return trip to Scotland
0:27:58 > 0:28:02with a view to seeing the mystery property again.
0:28:02 > 0:28:07If you want to escape to the country in Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales or England
0:28:07 > 0:28:09and would like our help, then please apply online: