0:00:04 > 0:00:06Welcome to Escape To The Country.
0:00:06 > 0:00:09As you can see, I'm in the heart of a beautiful
0:00:09 > 0:00:10and rather sleepy rural village.
0:00:10 > 0:00:13But during the First World War, the residents here played
0:00:13 > 0:00:17a crucial role in helping Allied troops out on the Western Front.
0:00:17 > 0:00:19But what did they do and where are we?
0:00:19 > 0:00:21Well, join me in just a moment and I'll tell you.
0:00:40 > 0:00:44This week, I'm helping two diverse sisters to relocate.
0:00:44 > 0:00:47They yearn to escape the humdrum of suburbia
0:00:47 > 0:00:49to live the countryside dream.
0:00:49 > 0:00:52Our search brings out sibling rivalry.
0:00:52 > 0:00:53Mine. Mine!
0:00:53 > 0:00:54THEY LAUGH
0:00:54 > 0:00:56You see, I knew we'd get to this.
0:00:56 > 0:00:59But in time, it looks like I may have found something
0:00:59 > 0:01:00to keep everyone happy.
0:01:00 > 0:01:03I'm feeling the love at the moment.
0:01:03 > 0:01:05Walking into this one is like, oh, yeah. Ah.
0:01:05 > 0:01:07It did feel good. Oh, yeah.
0:01:09 > 0:01:10Well, today we are in Devon.
0:01:10 > 0:01:15This is Dartmoor and, below me, the village of Widdecombe-in-the-Moor.
0:01:15 > 0:01:18Now, Dartmoor is well known for its dramatic landscapes,
0:01:18 > 0:01:23herds of wild ponies, but also as a prolific source of sphagnum moss.
0:01:23 > 0:01:25During the First World War, the people of Widdecombe
0:01:25 > 0:01:27and the surrounding areas came up onto the moor
0:01:27 > 0:01:30and collected it in enormous quantities.
0:01:30 > 0:01:33Once dried out, its unique sponge-like qualities
0:01:33 > 0:01:36and its antiseptic properties made it an ideal substance
0:01:36 > 0:01:39to treat Allied wounds out on the Western Front.
0:01:39 > 0:01:42Now, these days, the moss is highly protected.
0:01:42 > 0:01:44I can't even pick any up to show it to you.
0:01:44 > 0:01:45But as you can imagine,
0:01:45 > 0:01:48it's a tradition that the people here are rightly proud of.
0:01:52 > 0:01:55The county of Devon lies in the southwest of England,
0:01:55 > 0:01:59next to Somerset and Dorset, and east of Cornwall.
0:01:59 > 0:02:00With a rich and varied landscape,
0:02:00 > 0:02:04Devon boasts five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
0:02:04 > 0:02:05and two National Parks.
0:02:05 > 0:02:09It offers not only great hiking terrain in its vast expanse
0:02:09 > 0:02:13of moorland but also pretty rural villages, such as Lustleigh
0:02:13 > 0:02:17and North Bovey, which feature traditional thatched cottages.
0:02:17 > 0:02:19The north coast of Devon is a Mecca for surfers,
0:02:19 > 0:02:23whilst the south offers calmer waters perfect for sailing.
0:02:23 > 0:02:26And it's where you'll find the attractive town of Sidmouth.
0:02:26 > 0:02:29Once a small fishing village, Sidmouth grew in size
0:02:29 > 0:02:32in the Georgian and Victorian periods
0:02:32 > 0:02:34as the fashion for coastal resorts developed.
0:02:34 > 0:02:39Its fine Georgian and Regency houses still line the esplanade today.
0:02:41 > 0:02:43So, time now to meet today's buyers
0:02:43 > 0:02:47and find out what attracted them to this glorious county.
0:02:47 > 0:02:50Sisters Jenny and Heather have made a big decision
0:02:50 > 0:02:53to leave their separate lives behind and buy a home together
0:02:53 > 0:02:55where they can share the responsibility
0:02:55 > 0:02:57of caring for their elderly mother.
0:02:57 > 0:03:00Currently living in Hornchurch, Essex, and Farnborough in Hampshire
0:03:00 > 0:03:03respectively, it will be a big move for both sisters,
0:03:03 > 0:03:07and it's not just their current homes that are miles apart.
0:03:07 > 0:03:09We are completely different. Yeah.
0:03:09 > 0:03:13She's day, I'm night. Yeah, but we love each other. Pff.
0:03:13 > 0:03:15JENNY LAUGHS I suppose so.
0:03:15 > 0:03:17But, differences aside,
0:03:17 > 0:03:20it's their shared family values that have prompted the big move.
0:03:20 > 0:03:23We're both not getting any younger. Speak for yourself.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26But it's more about Mum, I suppose. You know, because Mum is,
0:03:26 > 0:03:30at the point where she's really starting to get quite helpless.
0:03:30 > 0:03:34We need to get the place ready so that we can get her in
0:03:34 > 0:03:35and look after her, really.
0:03:36 > 0:03:38Big sister Jenny is currently retired
0:03:38 > 0:03:42but her career as a florist is still very much a part of her life.
0:03:42 > 0:03:46I was the Retail Florist Of The Year for the eastern counties
0:03:46 > 0:03:47a few years back.
0:03:47 > 0:03:52I did it for 30 years, 15 of which I had my own business.
0:03:52 > 0:03:55I really look forward to having a really big garden
0:03:55 > 0:03:58that I can really let loose on
0:03:58 > 0:04:01and grow vegetables properly rather than in little silly pots.
0:04:01 > 0:04:05If at all possible, if it's good enough, I'd love to open it up to the public.
0:04:05 > 0:04:07But it's Heather's work in hosting events that's been
0:04:07 > 0:04:11a major factor in choosing this coastal county.
0:04:11 > 0:04:12We are thinking about Devon
0:04:12 > 0:04:16because I run dance weekends for a living as my main thing
0:04:16 > 0:04:19and they are all down in Torquay.
0:04:19 > 0:04:20So if I was in Devon,
0:04:20 > 0:04:23it wouldn't be such a mammoth drive home.
0:04:23 > 0:04:25We could all realise our dream.
0:04:25 > 0:04:27You know, my dream of having a massive garden
0:04:27 > 0:04:30and living in a lovely country property.
0:04:30 > 0:04:34Heather's dream's not quite so tangible but, eventually...
0:04:34 > 0:04:36Maybe. ..when we get a lovely barn,
0:04:36 > 0:04:41we can make it into a venue to realise your dream. Yeah.
0:04:41 > 0:04:43Having lived apart since leaving home,
0:04:43 > 0:04:47moving back in together after such a long time could present challenges.
0:04:47 > 0:04:51The prospect of living together is a little bit daunting, isn't it? Yeah.
0:04:51 > 0:04:55As long as we have the ability to sort of separate ourselves.
0:04:55 > 0:04:59But it'd be great that, you know, she's just sort of nearby.
0:04:59 > 0:05:01Nearby but... Sort of nearby...
0:05:01 > 0:05:04Like, almost like two separate dwellings but with a join
0:05:04 > 0:05:08somehow because Jenny's got her end of the world,
0:05:08 > 0:05:10I have my end of the world and we can, you know,
0:05:10 > 0:05:12both be there for each other. It'd be great.
0:05:15 > 0:05:18The sisters would like to be close to Torquay, where Heather
0:05:18 > 0:05:20runs her dance weekends.
0:05:20 > 0:05:23Provided they have good road access to the rest of the country
0:05:23 > 0:05:25and for visiting their brother in Hertfordshire,
0:05:25 > 0:05:27they're open to all parts of Devon.
0:05:27 > 0:05:30I'm meeting up with them to find out exactly what they need
0:05:30 > 0:05:31from their property.
0:05:31 > 0:05:34Well, Heather, Jenny, welcome to Devon
0:05:34 > 0:05:35for your Escape To The Country.
0:05:35 > 0:05:37Devon is somewhere that you know quite well.
0:05:37 > 0:05:40Yes, I come here a lot. I come here when I run my dance weekends.
0:05:40 > 0:05:43We go down to Torquay and I take 300 people with me
0:05:43 > 0:05:46and we party on hard until Monday and go home exhausted.
0:05:46 > 0:05:49Your life, on the other hand, Jenny... Is completely different.
0:05:49 > 0:05:51Is completely different. Yeah.
0:05:51 > 0:05:54I imagine your life being rather quieter. It's sedate, yes.
0:05:54 > 0:05:56So, as a couple...
0:05:56 > 0:05:58HEATHERS SNIGGERS We are not suited at all.
0:05:58 > 0:05:59THEY LAUGH
0:05:59 > 0:06:02Well, you are sisters, so there is some suitability there.
0:06:02 > 0:06:04We love each other. We've got the same mum and dad.
0:06:04 > 0:06:07There you go. Well, that brings us on nicely to talk about your mum.
0:06:07 > 0:06:10So we're looking for a separate sort of annexe arrangement for Mum.
0:06:10 > 0:06:13BOTH: Yes. Between you you've got 490,000... Yes. ..also.
0:06:13 > 0:06:16Let's talk about specifically what you're after, Heather.
0:06:16 > 0:06:21I will be getting in late at night, so I'd like something away from...
0:06:21 > 0:06:23other end of the house from Jenny.
0:06:23 > 0:06:27Separate bathroom, or an en-suite bathroom, would be awesome.
0:06:27 > 0:06:31So your life is nocturnal, and noisy. Yes.
0:06:31 > 0:06:32And yours isn't. Mm.
0:06:32 > 0:06:34Tell us about what you want.
0:06:34 > 0:06:37I sort of centre around the kitchen and the garden.
0:06:37 > 0:06:39How many bedrooms do we need?
0:06:39 > 0:06:40Minimum three.
0:06:40 > 0:06:41You don't drive, Jenny. Yes.
0:06:41 > 0:06:44So you need to be close to a community. Yes.
0:06:44 > 0:06:47The other thing I'd love to have around here,
0:06:47 > 0:06:50if the house had an old barn or some sort of structure to it
0:06:50 > 0:06:53that I could use as a venue later, for a dance
0:06:53 > 0:06:58or possibly, if it was big enough or wide enough or open enough, a wedding.
0:06:58 > 0:07:01I'm really excited about this one cos I do like a challenge. Good.
0:07:01 > 0:07:03We've got three options to show you
0:07:03 > 0:07:05and, of course, it includes our mystery house.
0:07:05 > 0:07:08Yay. Which is always a bit of fun. We can't wait.
0:07:08 > 0:07:11So, let's go and see what we've got you. Ooh! Awesome.
0:07:12 > 0:07:15For just under half a million pounds,
0:07:15 > 0:07:17Jenny and Heather are looking for three or more bedrooms,
0:07:17 > 0:07:20a kitchen big enough to socialise in,
0:07:20 > 0:07:22a large garden to keep Jenny busy
0:07:22 > 0:07:23and an outbuilding or space
0:07:23 > 0:07:26to create a venue for Heather's events business.
0:07:26 > 0:07:29They'd also like the property to be within walking distance
0:07:29 > 0:07:31to local shops and amenities.
0:07:31 > 0:07:34We've lined up three fantastic homes to show them,
0:07:34 > 0:07:36all with plenty of potential.
0:07:36 > 0:07:38I won't be revealing the price of each
0:07:38 > 0:07:40until they've guessed at it themselves.
0:07:40 > 0:07:42The final offering will be our mystery house
0:07:42 > 0:07:44that will challenge them by presenting something
0:07:44 > 0:07:46a little out of the ordinary.
0:07:48 > 0:07:51To kick off our Devonshire house hunt, we're starting
0:07:51 > 0:07:54three miles from the medieval town of Totnes
0:07:54 > 0:07:56in the sought-after village of Littlehempston.
0:07:56 > 0:07:59The character cottages of Littlehempston are surrounded
0:07:59 > 0:08:03by the beautiful countryside this part of Devon is famous for.
0:08:04 > 0:08:07Our first property is three quarters of a mile from Littlehempston
0:08:07 > 0:08:09in the hamlet of Hemsford.
0:08:09 > 0:08:11Well, girls, for our first property,
0:08:11 > 0:08:13we've got you this converted stable block.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15Can you see the windows? Yeah, beautiful.
0:08:15 > 0:08:17But it all happens the other side of this wall.
0:08:17 > 0:08:20The stables were built around 1890
0:08:20 > 0:08:24and were converted into a single-storey property in the 1990s.
0:08:24 > 0:08:25From the parking area,
0:08:25 > 0:08:30a gate leads visitors along a path into the walled garden.
0:08:30 > 0:08:35Now, look at this little sunny oasis behind that great big wall.
0:08:35 > 0:08:37It's incredible, isn't it?
0:08:37 > 0:08:38Yeah, nice. Completely hidden away.
0:08:38 > 0:08:41Now, the other thing to point out is that it does have this feature here.
0:08:41 > 0:08:44Currently this is a store and a garage and workshop
0:08:44 > 0:08:48and so forth, but through that door in there is a separate annexe.
0:08:48 > 0:08:49Ooh! Oh!
0:08:49 > 0:08:52It's currently a kind of one-bed en suite.
0:08:52 > 0:08:53OK. So no kitchen.
0:08:53 > 0:08:58But what we're thinking is that you could actually spread it all out.
0:08:58 > 0:09:01Convert this and your mum would have potentially all of that bit.
0:09:01 > 0:09:04Yeah. That'd be cool. It's got character, hasn't it? Yeah, like it so far.
0:09:04 > 0:09:07Depends what ground it's got with it too.
0:09:07 > 0:09:09Well, I'll let you in to a little secret.
0:09:09 > 0:09:13Over the road, it also has 1.2 acres of paddock and orchard.
0:09:13 > 0:09:14BOTH: Oh!
0:09:14 > 0:09:17This is sounding perfect so far.
0:09:17 > 0:09:19Let's see if it is. Come on.
0:09:19 > 0:09:23I think this property really offers the family potential they're after.
0:09:23 > 0:09:24The paddock and orchard
0:09:24 > 0:09:27could give Heather the space she needs to host events
0:09:27 > 0:09:30and the main house offers flexible accommodation
0:09:30 > 0:09:32for all three of the ladies.
0:09:32 > 0:09:36All on one level, the property covers over 210 square metres,
0:09:36 > 0:09:40with the living areas at one end and a separate annexe at the other,
0:09:40 > 0:09:41ideal for Mum.
0:09:41 > 0:09:43We're starting in the kitchen.
0:09:43 > 0:09:47This, I'm thinking, really is going to be your domain. Absolutely.
0:09:47 > 0:09:51Yes. What do you think, Heather? This is looking good. This is good, I like this dining room.
0:09:51 > 0:09:53Yes, it's nice. It's all together, isn't it?
0:09:53 > 0:09:57And I think this area is really quite clever cos it opens up into the kitchen with a breakfast bar.
0:09:57 > 0:09:59And all the bedrooms go off that way. Lovely.
0:09:59 > 0:10:02So it's all just going to flow through quite nicely? Yeah.
0:10:02 > 0:10:05Now, the living room is this way. I think you might like this.
0:10:05 > 0:10:06Come and have a look.
0:10:08 > 0:10:13This I love. Ooh. This is lovely.
0:10:13 > 0:10:15Such a good ceiling. Gosh. Real wood.
0:10:15 > 0:10:18It's proper wood, not mucked about, I like that. Yeah.
0:10:18 > 0:10:20This is a room you could share and I could see all three of you,
0:10:20 > 0:10:22actually, with Mum in here enjoying it.
0:10:22 > 0:10:24But if you want to split it up a bit,
0:10:24 > 0:10:26you've also got this fabulous garden room in here.
0:10:26 > 0:10:28Look at this.
0:10:28 > 0:10:30Ooh. Wow.
0:10:30 > 0:10:32Yes. It's so light, isn't it?
0:10:32 > 0:10:34Frames the garden really, really nice.
0:10:34 > 0:10:36And I love these lights in the ceiling.
0:10:36 > 0:10:38Yeah, this is all good so far.
0:10:38 > 0:10:39Yeah? Really good. We like.
0:10:39 > 0:10:41But next, it's bedrooms
0:10:41 > 0:10:44and I'm a bit nervous that there might be an argument.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47Could be. Could be.
0:10:47 > 0:10:48Ha-ha, let's see who gets what.
0:10:50 > 0:10:53Back through the lounge and kitchen to the other end of the house
0:10:53 > 0:10:54are the three bedrooms.
0:10:54 > 0:10:56One smaller room with bunk beds,
0:10:56 > 0:11:00followed by a family bathroom and the two largest bedrooms.
0:11:01 > 0:11:03And then finally...
0:11:04 > 0:11:06..the master. Hmm.
0:11:06 > 0:11:08Mine. Mine! THEY LAUGH
0:11:08 > 0:11:11Ah, you see, I knew we'd get to this
0:11:11 > 0:11:14because the problem is normally we only need one master bedroom, but in your case, we need two.
0:11:14 > 0:11:17The thing I like about this one for you, Heather,
0:11:17 > 0:11:20is that it has a separate door out. Yes!
0:11:20 > 0:11:23And it is the only one with an en-suite in here.
0:11:23 > 0:11:25We have of course got...
0:11:25 > 0:11:28the one-bedroom annexe next-door.
0:11:28 > 0:11:33However, maybe you could have that bit...out there,
0:11:33 > 0:11:35you could have here, or Mum could have this,
0:11:35 > 0:11:38and you've got one of the other bedrooms to play with down there.
0:11:38 > 0:11:40It's certainly feasible.
0:11:40 > 0:11:42So, in the meantime, I think we should pop back to the garden
0:11:42 > 0:11:44and think about the price.
0:11:44 > 0:11:47This is going to be interesting on this one, isn't it? It is.
0:11:47 > 0:11:50It looks like there are discussions to be had about the interior
0:11:50 > 0:11:52if it's going to work for this family.
0:11:52 > 0:11:55But outside, I am confident the garden offers the oasis
0:11:55 > 0:11:57that Jenny is after.
0:11:58 > 0:11:59So here we are, then.
0:11:59 > 0:12:03Back where we started in our gorgeous walled garden.
0:12:03 > 0:12:05I mean, quite a lot to keep you busy. Yes.
0:12:05 > 0:12:09OK. Well, let's think about the price then on this one.
0:12:09 > 0:12:14I'm sort of thinking of a cheeky offer of about 475.
0:12:14 > 0:12:16I'm going to be rude and say 460.
0:12:16 > 0:12:19The bad news is that it is technically over-budget.
0:12:19 > 0:12:23Oh, right. It's on for offers over ?500,000... OK.
0:12:23 > 0:12:25..but the vendors know your situation
0:12:25 > 0:12:28and I suspect there is a conversation to be had. BOTH: OK.
0:12:28 > 0:12:32For around ?10,000 over their ideal budget,
0:12:32 > 0:12:36these converted stables offer our buyers flexible accommodation
0:12:36 > 0:12:38with the three bedrooms they asked for
0:12:38 > 0:12:40plus an additional annexe with en-suite.
0:12:40 > 0:12:42The acre of land over the road
0:12:42 > 0:12:46could be developed in future as a venue for Heather's events business.
0:12:46 > 0:12:50The only downside is that it's a mile from the village.
0:12:50 > 0:12:54I think this is a very good start, actually. It is, yeah. Great start.
0:12:54 > 0:12:56But we have two more to go.
0:12:56 > 0:13:00But, first things first, let's have some lunch. Ooh! Yes! After you.
0:13:11 > 0:13:14Devon's charm extends beyond the beautiful scenery on offer.
0:13:14 > 0:13:18Its rich industrial heritage spans many centuries.
0:13:18 > 0:13:21Historically, one of the most important industries
0:13:21 > 0:13:24in the country was the production of leather, known as tanning.
0:13:24 > 0:13:28Nowadays, John Haggar is one of a few leatherworkers still
0:13:28 > 0:13:31employing the traditional crafting techniques,
0:13:31 > 0:13:34using the leather that the area is famous for.
0:13:34 > 0:13:37I've come to his workshop at the Dartington Estate,
0:13:37 > 0:13:40not far from our first property, to learn about the history
0:13:40 > 0:13:42and skills needed for this special craft.
0:13:43 > 0:13:46John, very nice to see you, sir. Nice to meet you.
0:13:46 > 0:13:49Now, I think I smelled this workshop before I even walked through
0:13:49 > 0:13:51the door, but it is a lovely, lovely smell.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54There is something I have always found with leather -
0:13:54 > 0:13:57it's one of those sort of almost primeval substances, isn't it?
0:13:57 > 0:13:58Mm. It's timeless.
0:13:58 > 0:14:01The leather is very special because it comes from Devon.
0:14:01 > 0:14:02That's the thing.
0:14:02 > 0:14:05Let's talk about Devon and its history of leather-work. OK.
0:14:05 > 0:14:08Because you are upholding a long tradition here, aren't you?
0:14:08 > 0:14:12I was taught to do things in a very traditional way, but my interest,
0:14:12 > 0:14:18really, is how to make something look stylish, fashionable.
0:14:18 > 0:14:20Now, you make all kinds of things, I know.
0:14:20 > 0:14:22And I know that belts are also something you make.
0:14:22 > 0:14:25This is my old belt. Oh, nice. This...
0:14:25 > 0:14:27HE LAUGHS You might say that,
0:14:27 > 0:14:31but I've had this for...about 16 years.
0:14:31 > 0:14:32I could do with a new one.
0:14:32 > 0:14:35So, how hard is it going to be to create something that
0:14:35 > 0:14:36I can walk out of here wearing?
0:14:36 > 0:14:38Well, I could show you how to make one.
0:14:38 > 0:14:39Let's have a go.
0:14:41 > 0:14:43John originally trained as a saddler
0:14:43 > 0:14:46and bridle maker in order to learn the traditional methods.
0:14:46 > 0:14:50He has now be turning leather into goods at his workshop for 20 years.
0:14:50 > 0:14:52That's a fabulous tool. What do you call that?
0:14:52 > 0:14:55This is a plough gauge. It's a very old tool. It's handmade.
0:14:58 > 0:15:00In the mid-19th century,
0:15:00 > 0:15:04Devon was a British tanning centre with over 100 tan yards operating.
0:15:04 > 0:15:08Back then, leather-working was popular as skilled tradesman
0:15:08 > 0:15:12were needed to fashion leather into bridle and military components.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15But with the rising cheap labour available overseas
0:15:15 > 0:15:18and the birth of replacement materials like plastic,
0:15:18 > 0:15:22the trade has declined over recent decades.
0:15:22 > 0:15:25So, with my belt cut to size and the holes marked out,
0:15:25 > 0:15:28it's time for the fun bit.
0:15:28 > 0:15:33So, is this one big whack? Yeah. OK. Go for it, go for it.
0:15:33 > 0:15:34Yes!
0:15:34 > 0:15:36Oh, beautiful. Look at that!
0:15:36 > 0:15:37Look at that there.
0:15:37 > 0:15:41Well done. Look at that, it's under way, my belt is coming to life.
0:15:41 > 0:15:42Brilliant.
0:15:42 > 0:15:45Making everything by hand without the use of modern-day
0:15:45 > 0:15:49machinery enables John to work with the finest of materials
0:15:49 > 0:15:52and tools, creating items of real individual beauty.
0:15:52 > 0:15:55So now... You've got to cut your point now.
0:15:55 > 0:15:57You can do it in two ways.
0:15:57 > 0:16:00Now, I do it by hand,
0:16:00 > 0:16:02but you can also use a chisel.
0:16:02 > 0:16:04Righto, John.
0:16:05 > 0:16:07And I must say, having a go myself,
0:16:07 > 0:16:09I can see where he gets his passion from.
0:16:09 > 0:16:12To preserve the suppleness of the belt,
0:16:12 > 0:16:15I'm buffing it with natural oils and fats.
0:16:15 > 0:16:19Then it's ready to add the buckle, keepers and finish with hand
0:16:19 > 0:16:22stitching, something I think I'll leave to the expert.
0:16:24 > 0:16:28Fabulous, John. I absolutely love that.
0:16:28 > 0:16:30The moment of truth - let's see if it fits.
0:16:30 > 0:16:33Right, so... Old belt in the bin?
0:16:33 > 0:16:34You must be joking.
0:16:34 > 0:16:37My old belt is going to come home with me.
0:16:37 > 0:16:40It is an old friend, I have to look after it, but my new belt...
0:16:40 > 0:16:42It fits. ..is...
0:16:45 > 0:16:47..just the ticket.
0:16:47 > 0:16:50That's beautiful. John, thank you very much. You're very welcome.
0:17:00 > 0:17:03For our next property, we're venturing north of Dartmoor
0:17:03 > 0:17:05to the mid-Devon village of Chawleigh.
0:17:05 > 0:17:09The village itself offers a pub and a number of shops,
0:17:09 > 0:17:10but for more extensive facilities,
0:17:10 > 0:17:13Chulmleigh is a mile and a half away.
0:17:13 > 0:17:15Property number two is a four-bedroom
0:17:15 > 0:17:17Grade II-listed thatched cottage
0:17:17 > 0:17:20situated on the outskirts of Chawleigh.
0:17:20 > 0:17:22There is property number two.
0:17:22 > 0:17:23What do you reckon?
0:17:23 > 0:17:26I love it in the rain, so it's going to be gorgeous in the sun.
0:17:26 > 0:17:28Really pretty. Yep.
0:17:28 > 0:17:31And location-wise, I think this is a step forward from number one.
0:17:31 > 0:17:35Although that was only a mile away from its amenities,
0:17:35 > 0:17:38this is a ten-minute walk into Chawleigh.
0:17:38 > 0:17:42Oh, perfect. Traditional thing in the countryside, nobody ever uses their front doors.
0:17:42 > 0:17:45We're going round the back, that way. Awesome. Come on, then. Good, good.
0:17:46 > 0:17:50This cottage is of traditional Devon stone and cob construction
0:17:50 > 0:17:51under a thatched roof
0:17:51 > 0:17:54and is believed to date back to the 17th century.
0:17:54 > 0:17:56I can't wait to show them the inside
0:17:56 > 0:17:58which is equally full of character.
0:17:59 > 0:18:01We'll start with...
0:18:01 > 0:18:03the kitchen. Excellent. Nice.
0:18:03 > 0:18:05This is doing it for me. Yeah? Yeah.
0:18:05 > 0:18:09It's a very good shape, room for a table which is absolutely fantastic. Yeah.
0:18:09 > 0:18:13I'm feeling the love at the moment. Hmm. Big time.
0:18:13 > 0:18:17Walking into this one is like, oh, yeah. Ah. It did feel good.
0:18:17 > 0:18:19Let's see if that feeling continues.
0:18:19 > 0:18:20Follow me through here.
0:18:21 > 0:18:24'It seems our sisters are really falling for this property's
0:18:24 > 0:18:28'period charm. And there is more to come as we go into the living room.'
0:18:28 > 0:18:31And then, in here, is the main living room.
0:18:31 > 0:18:34Another lovely fireplace. Oh!
0:18:34 > 0:18:36Another wood burner. Wow! Yeah. Wow!
0:18:36 > 0:18:38Look at this.
0:18:38 > 0:18:41Of course, with the dining room next door, you've got this lovely
0:18:41 > 0:18:45sort of flow from the kitchen to your main reception rooms, really.
0:18:45 > 0:18:48It's great. Double aspect as well.
0:18:48 > 0:18:50'A positive reaction so far.
0:18:50 > 0:18:54'I'm just hoping things don't go downhill as we move upstairs.
0:18:54 > 0:18:57'On the first floor, there is one single
0:18:57 > 0:19:01'and three double bedrooms, all currently sharing one bathroom.'
0:19:01 > 0:19:04Now, there is one thing that slightly concerns me.
0:19:04 > 0:19:07You asked for three bedrooms, we have got you four bedrooms.
0:19:07 > 0:19:09Fantastic. And nothing, of course, is en-suite,
0:19:09 > 0:19:12which maybe you could give up a bedroom if you wanted to do that.
0:19:12 > 0:19:17Yep. But it also has an enormous workshop,
0:19:17 > 0:19:21which really is crying out to be converted. Awesome.
0:19:21 > 0:19:25It is almost done. It is self-contained. Mum could have it.
0:19:25 > 0:19:29I say annexe, it is like a small cottage. Awesome.
0:19:29 > 0:19:32Outside, the property is surrounded by approximately an acre
0:19:32 > 0:19:36of flat land, mainly lawn, with panoramic views of the countryside.
0:19:36 > 0:19:39I have got a feeling that if the price is right,
0:19:39 > 0:19:42this one could be a real possibility.
0:19:42 > 0:19:45There is the garden. I think you can have a lot of fun planning that.
0:19:45 > 0:19:48Oh, I certainly could. Do you love it? Yeah, I certainly could.
0:19:48 > 0:19:51There is one more bit you haven't seen, and that is the older
0:19:51 > 0:19:54barn that is attached to this building at the front.
0:19:54 > 0:19:56Maybe you have got a few plans for that.
0:19:56 > 0:19:58Before we all get wet, let's think about the price.
0:19:58 > 0:20:01I think it's top of the budget, 500.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04And I am really scared it is going to be about 520.
0:20:04 > 0:20:06It is on the market for
0:20:06 > 0:20:11?499,950.
0:20:11 > 0:20:13Oh!
0:20:13 > 0:20:14?50 out.
0:20:14 > 0:20:18If Jenny and Heather can stretch their budget, this cottage offers
0:20:18 > 0:20:21them the real country character they're after with an extra
0:20:21 > 0:20:24bedroom, a large workshop with scope to create a fantastic
0:20:24 > 0:20:28annexe for their mother as well as an additional old barn.
0:20:28 > 0:20:31And it is within walking distance of those all-important shops
0:20:31 > 0:20:32and amenities.
0:20:32 > 0:20:36Now then, I think, not a bad day of house hunting. Absolutely brilliant.
0:20:36 > 0:20:38Not bad at all. Are you going to buy one yet? Oh!
0:20:38 > 0:20:41Well, maybe, that is for us to know and you to find out.
0:20:41 > 0:20:43We will find out tomorrow,
0:20:43 > 0:20:45but not before we've seen the mystery house in the morning.
0:20:45 > 0:20:48In the meantime, the weather has taken over.
0:20:48 > 0:20:51Pub. Pub. Pub? Come on then, let's go.
0:21:00 > 0:21:04Well, no house search is ever easy, but this one is particularly
0:21:04 > 0:21:08perplexing because of the widely contrasting demands of our buyers.
0:21:08 > 0:21:11Now, in an ideal world, they'd buy all three
0:21:11 > 0:21:13of the properties we were able to show them.
0:21:13 > 0:21:16But of course, that can't happen, they can choose only one.
0:21:16 > 0:21:18So, for our final offering, we have looked long
0:21:18 > 0:21:23and hard for our mystery house, or should I say...mystery houses.
0:21:27 > 0:21:30Situated eight miles north of Okehampton,
0:21:30 > 0:21:33on the northern edge of Dartmoor, our final property is in a rural
0:21:33 > 0:21:36setting on the outskirts of North Tawton.
0:21:36 > 0:21:39In the heart of this scenic West Devon countryside,
0:21:39 > 0:21:42North Tawton is exceptionally small for a town
0:21:42 > 0:21:45but has retained this title due to its having a town hall,
0:21:45 > 0:21:48which plays host to a number of local events.
0:21:48 > 0:21:51A 12-minute stroll over a bridge from the town centre
0:21:51 > 0:21:53is our mystery property.
0:21:53 > 0:21:57So, here we are at our mystery house.
0:21:57 > 0:22:01Or should I say mystery...houses.
0:22:01 > 0:22:03We have got you two.
0:22:03 > 0:22:06Right there. This is nice.
0:22:06 > 0:22:10Used to be, obviously, a much bigger, sprawling farm complex.
0:22:10 > 0:22:12And over the years, it has been divided up.
0:22:12 > 0:22:16So what you have on offer here is that building there,
0:22:16 > 0:22:19which was the old Shire horse stables,
0:22:19 > 0:22:23and this building over here, which used to be the old piggery.
0:22:23 > 0:22:25This one has residential planning on it, obviously,
0:22:25 > 0:22:26because it is a house.
0:22:26 > 0:22:30This one is currently more of a dedicated holiday let,
0:22:30 > 0:22:32but they have applied for full residential planning.
0:22:32 > 0:22:35This one has the living room on the upstairs,
0:22:35 > 0:22:37so it is a bit upside down.
0:22:37 > 0:22:39This one is much more conventional, with it on the ground floor.
0:22:39 > 0:22:42And the garden that comes with this property is attached,
0:22:42 > 0:22:44really, to that one.
0:22:44 > 0:22:48So I thought maybe then we should start
0:22:48 > 0:22:52upside down with that one. Yeah?
0:22:52 > 0:22:53Wonderful. Come on. Yeah.
0:22:55 > 0:22:57These sisters lead separate lives,
0:22:57 > 0:22:59so could two separate buildings be the answer?
0:22:59 > 0:23:02I've got a good feeling about this one.
0:23:02 > 0:23:03So, here we are.
0:23:03 > 0:23:05Upside-down living.
0:23:05 > 0:23:07Gosh!
0:23:08 > 0:23:09Oh, nice.
0:23:09 > 0:23:11Yeah, like that. Yeah.
0:23:11 > 0:23:14There is a kitchen just behind that wall.
0:23:14 > 0:23:15A sort of open-galley kitchen.
0:23:15 > 0:23:17Have a look. Oh, yeah.
0:23:17 > 0:23:20Yeah. It's lovely. Yeah, I could cope with this very easily.
0:23:20 > 0:23:22I can see this really suiting you. Yeah.
0:23:22 > 0:23:24Let's have a quick view of these bedrooms.
0:23:24 > 0:23:27This might work for your mum, cos we've got two en-suites for you.
0:23:30 > 0:23:34So, here is where the rest of this particular property
0:23:34 > 0:23:37begins to come together, because leading off of this central hallway,
0:23:37 > 0:23:39we have got you three bedrooms.
0:23:39 > 0:23:42Now, two of them are currently furnished as two doubles -
0:23:42 > 0:23:45one there and one there. They are both en-suite.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48That one has a wet room shower, maybe good for Mum as well.
0:23:48 > 0:23:53And then this little sort of study area, which, you know,
0:23:53 > 0:23:55is on the spec as a bedroom, but to be honest, I think
0:23:55 > 0:23:57you'd probably keep it as a bit of a study.
0:23:57 > 0:23:59Let's go over the courtyard
0:23:59 > 0:24:01and see what the rest of it has to offer you.
0:24:02 > 0:24:06The first barn has certainly sparked Heather's interest, and I am hoping
0:24:06 > 0:24:10Jenny's reaction will be just as positive when she sees the second.
0:24:10 > 0:24:12So, Jenny, this could be you.
0:24:14 > 0:24:17Well, Jenny, here is your bit.
0:24:17 > 0:24:19Oh!
0:24:19 > 0:24:22Now, your living room is much more conventional. Yes.
0:24:22 > 0:24:23It is on the ground floor... OK.
0:24:23 > 0:24:26..although just up these two steps. So come look at this.
0:24:29 > 0:24:31So, would you be able to relax in here, Jenny?
0:24:31 > 0:24:34Oh, it's good.
0:24:34 > 0:24:36It's neutral and again, a good shape.
0:24:36 > 0:24:38You have got three bedrooms above.
0:24:38 > 0:24:41OK. And a separate bathroom, so nothing en-suite for you.
0:24:41 > 0:24:44But the lovely thing is it leads out into the garden that comes
0:24:44 > 0:24:45with the property.
0:24:45 > 0:24:48So, we are letting your green fingers close to the action.
0:24:48 > 0:24:50Great. That is what we are thinking. Yeah.
0:24:50 > 0:24:51Heading outside,
0:24:51 > 0:24:54the gardens are relatively modest compared to the other
0:24:54 > 0:24:57properties, but they do offer privacy and great views
0:24:57 > 0:24:58of the countryside.
0:24:58 > 0:25:01So, Jenny, this is your garden. Wow. Yes.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04Probably not the biggest we have shown you.
0:25:04 > 0:25:06I can get a vegetable patch in here.
0:25:06 > 0:25:09Yep. I mean, I don't want you to put a brave face on it. No.
0:25:09 > 0:25:11I know it is not as huge as you would've liked.
0:25:11 > 0:25:14I'm not sure, necessarily, that you would open to the public,
0:25:14 > 0:25:15on a regular basis. Probably not.
0:25:15 > 0:25:19Well, let's talk about the price. And that might help us reflect on what we have got.
0:25:19 > 0:25:21I'm going to have to go for 520.
0:25:21 > 0:25:24I think it is going to be more than that. I think 560.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27This is on the market for 50 quid short of
0:25:27 > 0:25:31?490,000. Wow... No way!
0:25:31 > 0:25:33No way! 489,950.
0:25:33 > 0:25:36THEY LAUGH
0:25:36 > 0:25:37Now, there is no dance studio.
0:25:37 > 0:25:40There aren't acres of gardening to be had,
0:25:40 > 0:25:42but it does give you very separate living.
0:25:42 > 0:25:44Gosh.
0:25:44 > 0:25:47At just ?50 under budget, our mystery properties
0:25:47 > 0:25:51offer our sisters a practical set-up for their contrasting lives.
0:25:51 > 0:25:55The two separate barns each offer three bedrooms, one with
0:25:55 > 0:25:58the convenience of a downstairs bedroom and bathroom for Mum.
0:25:58 > 0:26:00And although the gardens aren't huge,
0:26:00 > 0:26:02there are a number of separate areas.
0:26:02 > 0:26:04And it is all within a ten-minute walk of a town.
0:26:05 > 0:26:08I think any one of the properties we've shown you would fit the bill.
0:26:08 > 0:26:11If I gave you the keys, I'm sure you'd make them work.
0:26:11 > 0:26:13But you do need to think about it all and, of course,
0:26:13 > 0:26:15consider what your mum might want.
0:26:15 > 0:26:18Yeah. So shall we go and think? Yes, please. Come on, then.
0:26:26 > 0:26:29Well, Jenny and Heather.
0:26:29 > 0:26:30How are we doing?
0:26:30 > 0:26:33Good, good. Not bad. We're confused.
0:26:33 > 0:26:36Yeah. You're confused? Mm. Why so?
0:26:36 > 0:26:40Well, you have given us three homes, all would work in different ways.
0:26:40 > 0:26:43Mm-hmm. So there is an awful lot of jigging
0:26:43 > 0:26:46and double thinking with Mum to be had.
0:26:46 > 0:26:49So we thought we would visit
0:26:49 > 0:26:53probably house number two and three with Mum,
0:26:53 > 0:26:55further investigate the local areas.
0:26:55 > 0:26:57So property two, then.
0:26:57 > 0:26:59With its separate annexe, that's certainly on your list.
0:26:59 > 0:27:03I really loved property two - big, open space for a garden.
0:27:03 > 0:27:06For me, property three would work better.
0:27:06 > 0:27:10But my heart and soul would say Jenny would be making a huge
0:27:10 > 0:27:12compromise, cos she prefers two.
0:27:12 > 0:27:15Well, it has been a lot of fun, guys. So best of luck. Thank you.
0:27:15 > 0:27:20And hopefully, you'll move down here very shortly. I hope so. Thank you.
0:27:20 > 0:27:21Thank you.
0:27:25 > 0:27:28Well, three very different properties into which
0:27:28 > 0:27:31we had to fit three very different people -
0:27:31 > 0:27:33Jenny, Heather and, of course, their mother.
0:27:33 > 0:27:35It was always going to be a challenge.
0:27:35 > 0:27:38But I suspect their house search still has some way to go.
0:27:38 > 0:27:42But if money had been no object, maybe we could have sold them
0:27:42 > 0:27:44this place - Bovey Castle.
0:27:44 > 0:27:49This was once the home of none other than WH Smith of newsagent fame.
0:27:49 > 0:27:53Plenty of room for all the family and bags of space in which to party.
0:27:53 > 0:27:56Smith, who later became Viscount Hambleden,
0:27:56 > 0:27:59certainly knew what he wanted for his escape to the country.
0:27:59 > 0:28:02I'll see you next time.
0:28:02 > 0:28:05If you'd like to escape to the country
0:28:05 > 0:28:08in England, Northern Ireland, Wales or Scotland and need our help,
0:28:08 > 0:28:10you can apply online at...
0:28:46 > 0:28:49SI KING: Let me guess, you're seeing a garden, aren't you?
0:28:49 > 0:28:51DAVE MYERS: Well, we're seeing a kitchen!