0:00:02 > 0:00:04Just off the coast of this English county
0:00:04 > 0:00:08lies an iconic island once inhabited by giants and angels.
0:00:08 > 0:00:10So where am I? Stay tuned to find out.
0:00:28 > 0:00:31Today's property hunters are retirees who can't wait to
0:00:31 > 0:00:36leave city living behind to begin a new chapter in the countryside.
0:00:36 > 0:00:39They're very much hands on when it comes to their house search...
0:00:39 > 0:00:43I love the stones. I've got to touch the stones.
0:00:43 > 0:00:47..and surprised by the properties we have up our sleeves.
0:00:47 > 0:00:48I don't like it, I love it.
0:00:51 > 0:00:55Today you find me in Cornwall, and that is St Michael's Mount.
0:00:55 > 0:00:58Its Cornish name means "the grey rock in the wood".
0:00:58 > 0:01:01Now, the Mount is perched on top of a granite crag,
0:01:01 > 0:01:03and legend has it that it was once home to a giant,
0:01:03 > 0:01:07who used to wade ashore to steal local livestock.
0:01:07 > 0:01:10But it was the claim that a vision of the Archangel St Michael
0:01:10 > 0:01:13was seen here that led to the construction of a church
0:01:13 > 0:01:15dedicated to his name.
0:01:15 > 0:01:18A place of pilgrimage in the Middle Ages, the island is now home
0:01:18 > 0:01:23to a small community, and one of the many jewels in Cornwall's crown.
0:01:25 > 0:01:28Cornwall is Britain's most south-westerly county,
0:01:28 > 0:01:31surrounded by sea and sharing a single border
0:01:31 > 0:01:33with neighbouring Devon.
0:01:33 > 0:01:37With around 300 miles of spectacular coastline,
0:01:37 > 0:01:40Cornwall is home to some of the greatest seascapes
0:01:40 > 0:01:41the UK has to offer,
0:01:41 > 0:01:44where imposing seas meet golden beaches,
0:01:44 > 0:01:47and rugged cliffs touch rocky coves,
0:01:47 > 0:01:51including one of the county's top tourist destinations -
0:01:51 > 0:01:52Land's End.
0:01:52 > 0:01:56Formed from granite around 268 million years ago,
0:01:56 > 0:02:00it's the most south-westerly point of mainland Britain.
0:02:00 > 0:02:02Since medieval times,
0:02:02 > 0:02:05Cornwall's surrounding seas have seen fleets of fishing boats
0:02:05 > 0:02:09set sail from ports and harbours in search of the greatest catch.
0:02:09 > 0:02:13Today, in St Ives, much like the rest of Cornwall, fishing has been
0:02:13 > 0:02:19replaced by tourism, with visitors drawn to its art scene and seaside.
0:02:19 > 0:02:22Inland, you're never more than 20 miles from the sea,
0:02:22 > 0:02:25but here the landscape changes to green fields
0:02:25 > 0:02:29with rural farmland, rich pasture and rolling hills,
0:02:29 > 0:02:31while ruined tin mines pepper the landscape
0:02:31 > 0:02:36and provide a constant reminder of Cornwall's industrial past.
0:02:39 > 0:02:43From coast to country, there's no doubt that Cornwall offers
0:02:43 > 0:02:47any potential buyer some truly spectacular views and vistas.
0:02:47 > 0:02:50But how deep into their pockets will they have to dig
0:02:50 > 0:02:52for a slice of Cornish life?
0:02:52 > 0:02:54Well, surprisingly,
0:02:54 > 0:02:56the cost of a detached property here
0:02:56 > 0:03:01is currently around £8,000 below the national average, at 266,000.
0:03:01 > 0:03:03And with around 10,000 homes
0:03:03 > 0:03:07currently registered for sale in the region, there's plenty of choice.
0:03:07 > 0:03:09So let's meet today's couple
0:03:09 > 0:03:14and find out what kind of home they want in this stunning county.
0:03:14 > 0:03:17Christina and Ralph were childhood friends who went on to lead
0:03:17 > 0:03:19very different lives.
0:03:19 > 0:03:22However, after meeting up again five years ago,
0:03:22 > 0:03:24they rekindled a warm friendship,
0:03:24 > 0:03:26which soon blossomed into romance.
0:03:26 > 0:03:29We're lucky in one way because our relationship
0:03:29 > 0:03:34is based on a friendship that's lasted all our lives and...
0:03:34 > 0:03:36Ah, it's just so lovely.
0:03:36 > 0:03:41A lovely gentle person and really easy to be with.
0:03:41 > 0:03:44Oh, Tina's a very good cook, very good company.
0:03:44 > 0:03:48I cook, he does DIY. It works.
0:03:48 > 0:03:50Former employment law adviser Christina
0:03:50 > 0:03:54and ex-international engineer Ralph are both now retired.
0:03:54 > 0:03:57Although Ralph owns a house in Worcester,
0:03:57 > 0:04:00he spends most of his time with Christina at her home
0:04:00 > 0:04:03in Wolverhampton, where she's lived for 41 years,
0:04:03 > 0:04:06and it holds many memories.
0:04:06 > 0:04:10My son was nine months old when we moved in here at Christmas,
0:04:10 > 0:04:15and he took his very first steps moving between the sitting room
0:04:15 > 0:04:17and the dining room.
0:04:17 > 0:04:21But over the years, she's noticed a change in the neighbourhood.
0:04:21 > 0:04:23It is too busy, there's too much traffic.
0:04:23 > 0:04:26It's not for us now. We want to move on.
0:04:26 > 0:04:31I'm looking for somewhere quieter and new challenges.
0:04:31 > 0:04:34With children from previous relationships now having
0:04:34 > 0:04:37families of their own, it's time to make the move,
0:04:37 > 0:04:41and they've settled on Cornwall, where they've holidayed many times.
0:04:41 > 0:04:44- The sea and the people that we know...- The people.
0:04:44 > 0:04:48- ..the experiences, nice experiences that we've always had.- Yes.
0:04:50 > 0:04:53I love the cliff path walks. They're wonderful.
0:04:53 > 0:04:55And it's pure escapism.
0:04:55 > 0:05:00And when we go there now, it feels more like home than it does here.
0:05:00 > 0:05:04The area that we're most looking at is the Mount's Bay area,
0:05:04 > 0:05:09which is in and around Penzance, Marazion, Perranuthnoe...
0:05:09 > 0:05:12We quite like those little hamlets and villages.
0:05:12 > 0:05:17We want somewhere where we can sit quietly and read a newspaper and
0:05:17 > 0:05:22have a glass of wine and preferably watch the ships coming and going.
0:05:22 > 0:05:26We get quite excited about things like that, actually.
0:05:27 > 0:05:30And when they're not relaxing and enjoying the sea views,
0:05:30 > 0:05:33Christina and Ralph are both keen to take up hobbies
0:05:33 > 0:05:36and immerse themselves in local life.
0:05:36 > 0:05:40I'd like to get involved with
0:05:40 > 0:05:45renovating some ex-army recovery vehicles.
0:05:45 > 0:05:50I would like to get involved with the lifeboat, RNLI,
0:05:50 > 0:05:55from a maintenance point of view or repainting their boats.
0:05:55 > 0:05:59While Ralph's off getting greasy with his machinery,
0:05:59 > 0:06:01I'm going to go and paint.
0:06:01 > 0:06:05And also I want to get involved with some charity work.
0:06:05 > 0:06:07So with both houses on the market,
0:06:07 > 0:06:10they're ready to begin the search for their new home together.
0:06:10 > 0:06:12It's like being young again, really.
0:06:12 > 0:06:15There's so much to do and so many places to go to.
0:06:15 > 0:06:18Cornwall, really, is calling, so that's where we want to be.
0:06:24 > 0:06:28Our buyers are particularly keen on South East Cornwall, around
0:06:28 > 0:06:32the area of Mount's Bay, so we'll be concentrating our search here.
0:06:32 > 0:06:35I'm meeting them in the county to dig a little deeper
0:06:35 > 0:06:37into what they're looking for.
0:06:37 > 0:06:40Ralph, Christina, welcome to a rather rainy Cornwall.
0:06:40 > 0:06:42Tell us why you want to live here.
0:06:42 > 0:06:44Because it's so beautiful.
0:06:44 > 0:06:48Even on a damp day, it's still a lovely place to be.
0:06:48 > 0:06:51It's relaxing, it's calming, the pace of life is slower.
0:06:51 > 0:06:54It suits us now, and this is where we want to be.
0:06:54 > 0:06:58And this is your first home together that you'll buy. Paint us a picture.
0:06:58 > 0:07:01Well, we want something on its own,
0:07:01 > 0:07:04but not too far away from a village.
0:07:04 > 0:07:09Walking distance to a local pub, perhaps, would be nice,
0:07:09 > 0:07:11in order to meet people,
0:07:11 > 0:07:16but still a little bit out so that we can have that much more land.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19We would like a stone cottage, but it's not an absolute.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22I like windows, big windows, and high ceilings.
0:07:22 > 0:07:26I like a big kitchen... Central island - love that.
0:07:26 > 0:07:29Ralph, what do you want from a property?
0:07:29 > 0:07:34Maybe a workshop, maybe an acre of ground.
0:07:34 > 0:07:36- MAYBE an acre?- Maybe an acre.
0:07:36 > 0:07:37What do you want all this land for?
0:07:37 > 0:07:42Oh, I want some military vehicles parked up there to take to shows
0:07:42 > 0:07:44and so forth, keep me busy.
0:07:44 > 0:07:49Are there any areas you will not make a compromise on?
0:07:49 > 0:07:55Not a semi, not one on a steep up or down driveway,
0:07:55 > 0:07:59not near a main road,
0:07:59 > 0:08:02preferably not near other properties.
0:08:02 > 0:08:06- We'd love a coastal view, if possible.- If possible.- If possible.
0:08:06 > 0:08:08So remind me of your budget then?
0:08:08 > 0:08:11We have a budget of £500,000.
0:08:11 > 0:08:13Now, it's a healthy budget, but do remember,
0:08:13 > 0:08:15this is a very popular area,
0:08:15 > 0:08:17lots of people want their second homes here,
0:08:17 > 0:08:19you've got businesses fighting for property,
0:08:19 > 0:08:21so we'll do our best.
0:08:21 > 0:08:23- Can't wait.- Let's go.- Let's go.
0:08:30 > 0:08:32With a budget of £500,000,
0:08:32 > 0:08:35Christina and Ralph are looking for a stone cottage
0:08:35 > 0:08:37with at least three bedrooms,
0:08:37 > 0:08:42land for Ralph to collect and refurbish ex-military vehicles,
0:08:42 > 0:08:44a large kitchen and sea views.
0:08:44 > 0:08:46They'd like their first home together
0:08:46 > 0:08:48to be within a semi-rural setting,
0:08:48 > 0:08:50but ideally within walking distance
0:08:50 > 0:08:52of the centre of a village and local pub,
0:08:52 > 0:08:54where they can meet people.
0:08:54 > 0:08:57We've chosen some great property options,
0:08:57 > 0:09:00which all reflect the Cornish heritage they love.
0:09:00 > 0:09:04But inside, there's a good variety of features to uncover.
0:09:04 > 0:09:07And at the end of each house tour, I'll be asking Christina and Ralph
0:09:07 > 0:09:10to put a price on each of the properties.
0:09:10 > 0:09:11Our Mystery House gives them
0:09:11 > 0:09:15an alternative option which they may not have even considered.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18But in offering above and beyond their wish list,
0:09:18 > 0:09:20it might just work for them.
0:09:24 > 0:09:25So, Christina and Ralph,
0:09:25 > 0:09:28this will be the first house that you buy together.
0:09:28 > 0:09:30How excited are you about that?
0:09:30 > 0:09:32Very. How about you? How do you feel?
0:09:32 > 0:09:35- Yes, terribly excited.- He is.
0:09:35 > 0:09:38- It's a big move, Ralph, are you sure?- Yeah.
0:09:39 > 0:09:43Now, who's going to be making the decisions in the house?
0:09:43 > 0:09:45Who'll have the final say?
0:09:45 > 0:09:49I think that it's going to be a joint decision,
0:09:49 > 0:09:51which is not going to be easy.
0:09:51 > 0:09:57So we've got to both be happy with what we've got.
0:09:57 > 0:09:59It's got to have something for both of us.
0:09:59 > 0:10:02I think we're both, basically,
0:10:02 > 0:10:04simply going to have to fall in love with it,
0:10:04 > 0:10:08and then I think everything will fall into place. What do you think, Ralph?
0:10:08 > 0:10:10Yes, very well said.
0:10:10 > 0:10:13Do you think that there'll ever be a time
0:10:13 > 0:10:16when both of you would disagree about the house?
0:10:16 > 0:10:19- Yes.- I think that will be all of the time.
0:10:19 > 0:10:23- Do you both have very different tastes then?- Nope.
0:10:23 > 0:10:26I'm very easy going.
0:10:26 > 0:10:27Sometimes.
0:10:33 > 0:10:35We're kicking off our house-hunt
0:10:35 > 0:10:37in the hamlet of Carfury.
0:10:37 > 0:10:40Close by is the lovely granite village of Zennor,
0:10:40 > 0:10:44with its pub, folk museum and backpackers' hostel.
0:10:44 > 0:10:46With unspoilt views in all directions,
0:10:46 > 0:10:49Zennor is only five miles from the seaside town of St Ives,
0:10:49 > 0:10:53which, in the summer, is a hot spot for holiday-makers.
0:10:53 > 0:10:56Just a ten-minute drive from the village centre
0:10:56 > 0:10:59and surrounded by countryside is our first property.
0:11:01 > 0:11:04So here we are. House number one.
0:11:04 > 0:11:07It's a stone cottage!
0:11:07 > 0:11:09- Well, that's what you asked for. - It was, yes.
0:11:09 > 0:11:12- A stone cottage in Cornwall. - Sonali, it's lovely.
0:11:12 > 0:11:14It's exactly what we asked for.
0:11:14 > 0:11:18It's a lovely granite cottage and it's so pretty.
0:11:18 > 0:11:20- What do you think?- Excellent.
0:11:20 > 0:11:24- Lovely setting.- It's gorgeous, I like it very much.
0:11:24 > 0:11:27And it's so quiet and it is exactly as we wanted.
0:11:27 > 0:11:30The location is about right.
0:11:30 > 0:11:32Location wise, the owner tells me that the
0:11:32 > 0:11:36best pub is actually a 45-minute walk across the moors.
0:11:36 > 0:11:3745 minutes?
0:11:37 > 0:11:39We should go on horseback.
0:11:39 > 0:11:42You'll work up an appetite, work off your lunch.
0:11:42 > 0:11:43And you wanted sea views.
0:11:43 > 0:11:46Well, actually, on a clear day, you can see St Michael's Mount
0:11:46 > 0:11:49- through there, so you actually have sea views from this property. - Oh, my.
0:11:49 > 0:11:53- Lovely.- And it has been modernised inside.- Really?- So let's go in.
0:11:53 > 0:11:54Let's go and see.
0:11:58 > 0:12:00'This attractive Grade II listed farmhouse dating
0:12:00 > 0:12:05'back to the 1600s is the largest of three properties that would
0:12:05 > 0:12:07'have previously formed Carfury farm.
0:12:07 > 0:12:10'With sea views on the doorstep, it's just what Christina
0:12:10 > 0:12:11'and Ralph wished for.'
0:12:14 > 0:12:16Come in, come in.
0:12:16 > 0:12:19So, the front door comes straight into the kitchen-diner.
0:12:19 > 0:12:22CHRISTINA GASPS That is a fireplace.
0:12:22 > 0:12:25I've always wanted THAT, that one there.
0:12:25 > 0:12:29- That's the biggest fireplace I have ever seen.- Me too.
0:12:29 > 0:12:32I can actually stand in it, and you'll be able to too.
0:12:32 > 0:12:33- LAUGHTER - Not that I advise you do!
0:12:33 > 0:12:36- Incredible. - Isn't it lovely? It's gorgeous.
0:12:36 > 0:12:39- I love the floors as well.- I know.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42There is only one slight problem - the ceilings are a little low.
0:12:42 > 0:12:46- Ralph, how do you feel? You're high, he's higher up than I am.- OK.
0:12:46 > 0:12:48No problem. Not a problem.
0:12:48 > 0:12:50Well, the kitchen's just there -
0:12:50 > 0:12:52- shall we go and have a closer look? - Yes.
0:12:52 > 0:12:54- And there's an island. - It's the island you wanted.
0:12:54 > 0:12:56It is, it is.
0:12:57 > 0:12:59And what about the kitchen itself?
0:12:59 > 0:13:01I like the Belfast sink - that's rather nice.
0:13:01 > 0:13:03I like the cooking range.
0:13:03 > 0:13:06I would take that bookshelf out of there
0:13:06 > 0:13:09and I would put something in there, overhead storage.
0:13:09 > 0:13:13- Ralph, she's moving in already. - It seems so.
0:13:13 > 0:13:17- What do you think about this?- You can imagine yourself in the kitchen? - Yes, I can.
0:13:17 > 0:13:20And you've also got a utility room that's outside,
0:13:20 > 0:13:23so all of the laundry and everything can all be done outside of here,
0:13:23 > 0:13:26so that utility adds to the kitchen.
0:13:26 > 0:13:28I love it, I do.
0:13:28 > 0:13:31- I think it's gorgeous. - Well, shall we go and see the rest of the downstairs?
0:13:31 > 0:13:33- Yes, definitely.- Oh, yes, please.
0:13:37 > 0:13:41So this is the reception room.
0:13:41 > 0:13:44- A bit small.- Is it?!
0:13:44 > 0:13:48I'm thinking about when everybody's here, friends and family are here.
0:13:48 > 0:13:51It's fine for us, it's just occasionally.
0:13:51 > 0:13:55The element of this room I really like is the double aspect.
0:13:55 > 0:13:58Two windows either side and it just brings that light right in.
0:13:58 > 0:14:01It does, that is wonderful. I do like that, actually.
0:14:01 > 0:14:04Sometimes places take a minute to wear on you, don't they?
0:14:04 > 0:14:06You have to try it on for size
0:14:06 > 0:14:08and you're not absolutely sure if it fits.
0:14:08 > 0:14:11And you like planning how you would live in there.
0:14:11 > 0:14:13Yeah. I mean, I could see it working.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16Shall we go upstairs to see the rest of the house before I take you outside?
0:14:16 > 0:14:19- Yes.- Let's do that.- OK.
0:14:22 > 0:14:24'Our buyers only asked for three bedrooms,
0:14:24 > 0:14:28'and here there are five spread out over two levels.
0:14:28 > 0:14:31'On the first floor, there are three double bedrooms, a single -
0:14:31 > 0:14:34'currently used as a study - and a bathroom.
0:14:34 > 0:14:37'But we're heading straight to the top of the house.'
0:14:43 > 0:14:45And this is the master bedroom suite.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49You wanted an en-suite - well, it's right there, it's open.
0:14:49 > 0:14:53Well, I think I'd close it off, really, but I love this.
0:14:53 > 0:14:57- Or send Ralph downstairs. - Send Ralph downstairs. I love this.
0:14:57 > 0:15:01I think it's exceeding expectations now.
0:15:01 > 0:15:04- It is. - Ralph, you've had a nosy round,
0:15:04 > 0:15:06- what do you think of the en suite? - Incredible, yes.
0:15:06 > 0:15:08- Would you want to close it off, as well?- I think I would.
0:15:08 > 0:15:10- Yeah.- And it would be easy to do.
0:15:10 > 0:15:13There's a nice dressing area just there, as well.
0:15:13 > 0:15:14So, do you like this?
0:15:14 > 0:15:18No, I don't like it, I love it.
0:15:18 > 0:15:22It's really, really nice. I've always wanted this.
0:15:22 > 0:15:26This sort of arrangement for a master bedroom,
0:15:26 > 0:15:30I just really like the way it flows and the house flows.
0:15:30 > 0:15:33Well, let me show you what's outside and then you can start thinking
0:15:33 > 0:15:37- about how much you think this might cost.- Oh, yes.- Yes.
0:15:39 > 0:15:41Outside, and to the rear of the property,
0:15:41 > 0:15:44the farmhouse also comes with a separate garage come workshop,
0:15:44 > 0:15:48plus a range of five further outbuildings.
0:15:50 > 0:15:53So, the property is set on three quarters of an acre.
0:15:53 > 0:15:56So all of this, the buildings we just walked past,
0:15:56 > 0:15:59the outbuilding and the washroom, that all belongs to this house.
0:15:59 > 0:16:01- So you'd have your workshop, Ralph.- Yes.
0:16:01 > 0:16:04- And you've got some land here to park a vehicle.- Yes.
0:16:04 > 0:16:06Well, you've seen most of the property now.
0:16:06 > 0:16:10How much do you think it's on the market for? Who'd like to go first?
0:16:10 > 0:16:15- £420,000.- OK.- I think it's a bit higher than that.
0:16:15 > 0:16:17- I would say £450,000.- OK.
0:16:17 > 0:16:19Well, you're both a little bit out.
0:16:19 > 0:16:22Christina, you are closer. It's actually on the market
0:16:22 > 0:16:26for £499,950.
0:16:26 > 0:16:28Well, you haven't seen the rest of the upstairs,
0:16:28 > 0:16:31- so why don't you go and have a look at the other bedrooms?- Good idea.
0:16:31 > 0:16:33- I'll meet you out the front. - We look forward to that.
0:16:33 > 0:16:36- We'll see you later.- See you soon. - Shall we go?- Yes, follow me.
0:16:38 > 0:16:40Well...
0:16:40 > 0:16:45I'm beginning to get the impression
0:16:45 > 0:16:48that they are being optimistic with how much they can get
0:16:48 > 0:16:54for their money in this area, and also what exactly they want,
0:16:54 > 0:16:58but let's show them House Two and maybe we'll get a bit more clarity.
0:16:59 > 0:17:02Right at the top of their budget, our first property
0:17:02 > 0:17:05gives Christina and Ralph pretty much everything they've asked for
0:17:05 > 0:17:10and more. The farmhouse offers up a generous five bedrooms,
0:17:10 > 0:17:14numerous outbuildings and land for Ralph's ex-military vehicles,
0:17:14 > 0:17:17and a private garden with sea views.
0:17:17 > 0:17:21I think House Number One has been very well restored,
0:17:21 > 0:17:23very sympathetically done.
0:17:23 > 0:17:26It's quite beautiful inside, I really like it a lot.
0:17:27 > 0:17:30- Oh, what a lovely room. - Do you like it?- Yes!
0:17:30 > 0:17:33- Good size, nice high ceiling. - Country cottage-style.
0:17:33 > 0:17:35- I like that window seat. - Yes. The window and the view.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38That's so pretty, yes. This is good.
0:17:38 > 0:17:41I think this property is absolutely wonderful.
0:17:43 > 0:17:48- It would suit us down to the ground. - There's a wonderful flow here.
0:17:48 > 0:17:53It's warm, it has a warm feel to it and I like that. It's welcoming.
0:17:53 > 0:17:58It is what we were looking for and as we walked into the kitchen
0:17:58 > 0:18:02and we saw that fireplace... My goodness me.
0:18:02 > 0:18:05It's the fireplace we've always wanted. It's perfect.
0:18:05 > 0:18:09The location might be something that we'd have to have a rethink on.
0:18:09 > 0:18:14The problem is that it's too isolated for our needs.
0:18:16 > 0:18:18- Did you have a good look around? - Yes, we did.
0:18:18 > 0:18:21- Are you ready to see everything else we have in store for you?- Mm, yeah.
0:18:21 > 0:18:23Let's go.
0:18:28 > 0:18:30Surrounded mainly by water,
0:18:30 > 0:18:34Cornwall has enjoyed a historic relationship with the sea,
0:18:34 > 0:18:37with fishing boats leaving harbours to land a catch of mackerel
0:18:37 > 0:18:41or Cornish gigs transporting crew members to offshore ships -
0:18:41 > 0:18:44a common sight throughout the years.
0:18:44 > 0:18:47Boat-building has, therefore, played a fundamental role
0:18:47 > 0:18:50in shaping the county's heritage and economy.
0:18:50 > 0:18:52I'm heading to Falmouth Marine School
0:18:52 > 0:18:54to meet Jonathan Mills, a boat-building lecturer,
0:18:54 > 0:18:58to give me a steer on Falmouth's maritime history.
0:18:58 > 0:19:00- Nice to meet you. - Yeah, nice to meet you.
0:19:00 > 0:19:02- Quite a storeroom you have, here. - Yeah, it is, it is.
0:19:02 > 0:19:04It's such a useful resource for us, really.
0:19:04 > 0:19:06We share the building with the Maritime Museum.
0:19:06 > 0:19:09These are all exhibits that will be interchanged with exhibits
0:19:09 > 0:19:12that they've got at the moment. They get restored before they go out.
0:19:12 > 0:19:15It's a brilliant resource for me for teaching, because I've got boats
0:19:15 > 0:19:17from all over the world here, every different type.
0:19:17 > 0:19:21So, is Falmouth the home of Cornish boat-building?
0:19:21 > 0:19:24Yes, I think it is. You've got the Carrick Roads,
0:19:24 > 0:19:27which is the third-deepest natural harbour in the world
0:19:27 > 0:19:31and it's why Falmouth is here, because this was a hub
0:19:31 > 0:19:33for communication for the British Empire.
0:19:34 > 0:19:37At the mouth of the River Fal, Falmouth was the site
0:19:37 > 0:19:41where in 1540 Henry VIII built Pendennis Castle,
0:19:41 > 0:19:45to defend Carrick Roads, the largest port in Cornwall.
0:19:45 > 0:19:49In 1688, Falmouth was made the Royal Mail packet station
0:19:49 > 0:19:51for transatlantic communications
0:19:51 > 0:19:55and, as a result, the town of Falmouth boomed.
0:19:55 > 0:19:58How big is the boat-building industry in the area?
0:19:58 > 0:20:01In Falmouth, pretty big, because we've got Falmouth Docks
0:20:01 > 0:20:04and there's a superyacht builder there.
0:20:04 > 0:20:07There are lots of small boat-builders, engineering companies
0:20:07 > 0:20:11all set up around the marine industry and it's thriving.
0:20:11 > 0:20:15And the skills that we have here are exported worldwide.
0:20:15 > 0:20:17There's a lot of banging and working going on.
0:20:17 > 0:20:19- I want to go see what's going on. - OK.- Shall we do that?- Yeah, sure.
0:20:22 > 0:20:25The Marine School can trace its history back to 1825,
0:20:25 > 0:20:28when it originally provided education to the residents
0:20:28 > 0:20:31of a rapidly-growing Falmouth Harbour.
0:20:31 > 0:20:36The boat-building course here has now been running for almost 55 years
0:20:36 > 0:20:38and, with hundreds of students qualified since,
0:20:38 > 0:20:42it's clear that traditional skills are still in demand.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47- Hi, Pablo.- Hi, Johnny. - How are you getting on?- Very well.
0:20:47 > 0:20:49- I think we're ready to rivet. - Yeah? Excellent.
0:20:49 > 0:20:53- That's a good fit.- So, what made you want to become a boat-builder?
0:20:53 > 0:20:55Well, I already had a degree in geography,
0:20:55 > 0:20:58but I just decided it wasn't for me and I've always had an interest
0:20:58 > 0:21:01in woodwork and I just thought I would go in this direction.
0:21:01 > 0:21:03- Tell us about this boat. - This boat is called Shrinkle.
0:21:03 > 0:21:05It's a Cornish boat. It's a working boat.
0:21:05 > 0:21:08It's an ongoing project. So, in previous years,
0:21:08 > 0:21:10students have been re-planking it.
0:21:10 > 0:21:12- So, it's a restoration project? - Yeah, exactly.
0:21:12 > 0:21:15These are all donated boats. They would have been burnt
0:21:15 > 0:21:17or left to rot on a beach, but the reason we're doing this one
0:21:17 > 0:21:21is it's probably beyond economic repair, which is a fantastic project
0:21:21 > 0:21:24for the students to get involved in, because they
0:21:24 > 0:21:27learn so much from tearing an old boat apart and rebuilding it again.
0:21:27 > 0:21:30- It's the best way to learn. - It is, yeah.
0:21:30 > 0:21:31I want to see a finished article.
0:21:31 > 0:21:34We've got one outside. Do you want to come and have a look?
0:21:34 > 0:21:36Not just a look. I want to take it for a spin.
0:21:36 > 0:21:38- Thank you.- See you later.
0:21:38 > 0:21:42'With hundreds of boats restored every year, I'm meeting skipper
0:21:42 > 0:21:46'Simon Combe, who has agreed to let me test-drive this fine specimen.'
0:21:46 > 0:21:50- Hey, Simon.- Hi. - She's beautiful! Can we go on?
0:21:50 > 0:21:52- So, what's she called? - This one's called Willie Johns,
0:21:52 > 0:21:56- named after the builders. - Let's see how she sails.
0:22:00 > 0:22:03'Built in 2009 by students,
0:22:03 > 0:22:07'this boat is a replica of a 1920s gentleman's launch boat,
0:22:07 > 0:22:10'previously used to ferry gentry up and down the River Fal.'
0:22:14 > 0:22:17- Shall we get this bad boy going a little bit more?- Yeah, we can do.
0:22:20 > 0:22:23'Real skill and craftsmanship have gone into the restoration
0:22:23 > 0:22:27'of these beautiful boats, which has secured their future.
0:22:27 > 0:22:30'It's wonderful to see them taking to the water once again,
0:22:30 > 0:22:31'where they belong.'
0:22:38 > 0:22:40For our second property option,
0:22:40 > 0:22:41we're heading to the village
0:22:41 > 0:22:43of Godolphin Cross.
0:22:43 > 0:22:47Nearby, is Helston, a former tin mining and cattle centre,
0:22:47 > 0:22:50which is the most southerly town in the UK.
0:22:50 > 0:22:51It offers several good schools
0:22:51 > 0:22:54and has a great high street, with a range of amenities.
0:22:54 > 0:22:57It's a ten-minute drive to House Number Two,
0:22:57 > 0:22:59which is situated in the heart of the community,
0:22:59 > 0:23:02in walking distance from the local pub.
0:23:02 > 0:23:06And just through the beautiful gardens is House Number Two.
0:23:08 > 0:23:11Again, I've gone for the Cornish cottage that you've asked for,
0:23:11 > 0:23:14with the granite walls, the slate roof...
0:23:14 > 0:23:18- What do you think?- Very impressive.
0:23:18 > 0:23:22- One concern.- OK.- The road.- No.- Busy.
0:23:22 > 0:23:25Your problem with the last property, especially you, Ralph,
0:23:25 > 0:23:28- was perhaps the location. - Yeah.- Perhaps a bit too rural.
0:23:28 > 0:23:32- So I thought, "Well, similar house..."- You've done well.
0:23:32 > 0:23:35- "..but let's take you in the middle of the village."- You're OK with me.
0:23:35 > 0:23:39I'm OK with you, because you've seen the pub two minutes up the road.
0:23:39 > 0:23:40She's right, you know.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43- It's the missus over here that we've got to win over...- OK.
0:23:43 > 0:23:46- ..with the house. - All right.- Let's go.- Let's go.
0:23:48 > 0:23:50At almost 200 years old,
0:23:50 > 0:23:53this pretty house was originally two separate cottages.
0:23:53 > 0:23:57Converted into one beautiful home in the early 1900s,
0:23:57 > 0:24:00it retains many original features.
0:24:03 > 0:24:06I thought we'd start in the kitchen
0:24:06 > 0:24:09- as I know it's an important room for you.- Yes.
0:24:09 > 0:24:14Not bad. I like the fire. I'm not crazy wild about it.
0:24:14 > 0:24:17- Why is that?- Could we look at the other part, over here?- Yeah, yeah.
0:24:20 > 0:24:24Oh, this is better. It opens up. I'd have to get used to it.
0:24:24 > 0:24:29- Why are you unsure about it? - Well, I think it's these low beams.
0:24:29 > 0:24:33OK. Ralph, how do you feel about the whole kitchen diner?
0:24:33 > 0:24:36I feel very relaxed about everything. Very, very nice.
0:24:36 > 0:24:41It's a nice-sized kitchen. It's quirky. I quite like quirky.
0:24:41 > 0:24:43I think, in time, it could grow on me.
0:24:43 > 0:24:46Well, let me show you the rest of the house
0:24:46 > 0:24:48- and then you can begin to make up your mind.- Yes.- Good.
0:24:54 > 0:24:58So, this is the main living room to the house.
0:24:58 > 0:25:03- A bit small for you?- Mm...a little bit. It's beautifully presented.
0:25:03 > 0:25:06- I like these ceilings, they're a little bit higher.- Yeah.
0:25:06 > 0:25:08Lovely fireplace.
0:25:08 > 0:25:12I love the windows and that is gorgeous because it lets the light...
0:25:12 > 0:25:15- The window from the hallway, yes. - What do you think about this room?
0:25:15 > 0:25:16- Nice and cosy, isn't it?- It is.
0:25:16 > 0:25:19- Would it be enough for you both? - Yes, plenty.
0:25:19 > 0:25:22- Do you think?- Yes.- For all your friends, as well?- Definitely. Yes.
0:25:22 > 0:25:28While this is not huge, you do have other reception rooms downstairs.
0:25:28 > 0:25:30We'll go see those later.
0:25:30 > 0:25:33- First, I want to show you what's upstairs.- OK.
0:25:33 > 0:25:37The cottage's former structure is still apparent in the current layout
0:25:37 > 0:25:41of the house, with the second living room, conservatory
0:25:41 > 0:25:44and bathroom on the ground floor.
0:25:44 > 0:25:48With two double and two single bedrooms split over two floors,
0:25:48 > 0:25:52this house has one more bedroom than Christina and Ralph
0:25:52 > 0:25:54asked for and there's also a second bathroom.
0:25:57 > 0:26:01The couple that live here use this master bedroom in the summer.
0:26:01 > 0:26:03I think it's lovely. I think it's delightful.
0:26:03 > 0:26:08It's got two really sweet windows, the light floods into here.
0:26:08 > 0:26:11Are you OK with the fact that there are is no en suite attached to it?
0:26:11 > 0:26:13You can't always have everything.
0:26:13 > 0:26:15Well, I have a little surprise for you,
0:26:15 > 0:26:17before we go out into the garden.
0:26:17 > 0:26:21'Originally a stable and coach house attached to the property.
0:26:21 > 0:26:25'These buildings were converted in 1998 to form an additional annexe.'
0:26:28 > 0:26:34- Welcome to the secret studio...- Ooh! - ..that you could use for guests.
0:26:34 > 0:26:36And it really is nice.
0:26:36 > 0:26:40It's got that gorgeous ceiling again and it's beautifully done.
0:26:40 > 0:26:43- And there's a bathroom just through that door, as well.- Really?- Yeah.
0:26:43 > 0:26:47Perfect for family when they come over, they've got their own space.
0:26:47 > 0:26:49I think the house might be a bit over the top in price.
0:26:49 > 0:26:52Which means I think it might be growing on you.
0:26:52 > 0:26:54- Yes.- OK.
0:26:54 > 0:26:57We want to go back into that lovely garden and have a chat
0:26:57 > 0:27:02- about how over the top you might think it is price-wise.- Right. OK.
0:27:02 > 0:27:05- Yeah?- Yes, lead the way.
0:27:05 > 0:27:08'So far this viewing seems to be going really well
0:27:08 > 0:27:11'and Christina appears to have forgotten about the road issue
0:27:11 > 0:27:15'she spoke of outside. Sitting within a third of an acre plot,
0:27:15 > 0:27:18'this garden is private and secluded
0:27:18 > 0:27:20'and I'm hoping she'll love this, too.'
0:27:23 > 0:27:26And with that house comes this beautiful garden.
0:27:28 > 0:27:31- It's gorgeous. - I know you want a lot of land
0:27:31 > 0:27:34and there's not really enough room for your military vehicles here.
0:27:34 > 0:27:37- I could keep it on the pub car park.- Yeah.
0:27:37 > 0:27:40Well, that's the compromise. If you want to be in a village,
0:27:40 > 0:27:43- you're not really going to get land space, are you?- That's true.
0:27:43 > 0:27:46I have felt that this house has grown on you, Christina.
0:27:46 > 0:27:48Yes, it has, definitely.
0:27:48 > 0:27:54It's lovely and it's quirky and that's very charming.
0:27:54 > 0:27:58Have those doubts from when we entered the house gone?
0:27:58 > 0:28:03I think so. I think probably they have, actually. Yes.
0:28:03 > 0:28:08- Ralph, you've won her over then? - Yes, seemingly.- He always does!
0:28:08 > 0:28:10Time to find out how much it would cost you,
0:28:10 > 0:28:13- if, indeed, it is a real contender.- OK.
0:28:13 > 0:28:17So, how much is it on the market for?
0:28:17 > 0:28:22- Without a doubt I would say £620,000.- Really? Are you sure?
0:28:22 > 0:28:27- Yes.- OK. I would say £599,950.
0:28:27 > 0:28:31So, you both think I've gone £100,000 or so
0:28:31 > 0:28:33- over your budget?- It's possible.
0:28:33 > 0:28:36Lucky for you, I haven't. In fact, I'm under budget,
0:28:36 > 0:28:38only just, but I'm under budget.
0:28:38 > 0:28:44- It's actually on the market for £495,000.- No!- Yeah.- Wow.
0:28:44 > 0:28:46So, what does that make you think about the house?
0:28:46 > 0:28:49Would you be happy spending your whole budget on it?
0:28:49 > 0:28:54- Yes.- Yes. I think so. It's worth it.
0:28:54 > 0:28:57Why don't you go back inside, see the other bedrooms,
0:28:57 > 0:28:59see the other part of the downstairs
0:28:59 > 0:29:01and I'll meet you out on the front in a few minutes?
0:29:01 > 0:29:03- Good idea.- Lovely.- Come with me.- OK.
0:29:05 > 0:29:07Well...
0:29:07 > 0:29:11After not really liking it, at all, Christina hasn't even mentioned
0:29:11 > 0:29:14the traffic, loves the price, loves the house,
0:29:14 > 0:29:17and has basically moved in. Brilliant.
0:29:20 > 0:29:22Underbudget by £5,000,
0:29:22 > 0:29:23our second property,
0:29:23 > 0:29:25a charming character cottage,
0:29:25 > 0:29:27offers Christina and Ralph
0:29:27 > 0:29:29everything they're looking for in a new abode.
0:29:29 > 0:29:31With multiple reception rooms
0:29:31 > 0:29:32as well as four bedrooms,
0:29:32 > 0:29:34one extra than they'd asked for.
0:29:34 > 0:29:36There's also a separate annexe -
0:29:36 > 0:29:39more than enough space for visiting guests.
0:29:39 > 0:29:42When we first came to the house, I was worried about the road.
0:29:42 > 0:29:45I thought it was busy and I've listened to it
0:29:45 > 0:29:48and it really isn't that bad, at all.
0:29:48 > 0:29:50So, I don't think it's going to be a problem.
0:29:54 > 0:29:58Ooh. Look. Oh, look!
0:29:58 > 0:30:02- Oh, I like that one.- Gee.
0:30:02 > 0:30:03- Oh, my word.- Beautiful.
0:30:06 > 0:30:09I love the stones. I've got to touch the stones.
0:30:09 > 0:30:12Oh, that's so nice. There's something lovely... A lovely feel.
0:30:12 > 0:30:15Absolutely fantastic.
0:30:15 > 0:30:18It's got everything we want.
0:30:18 > 0:30:23- It's absolutely perfect.- Look, the window seat again. It's wonderful.
0:30:23 > 0:30:26I would put an offer in for this place.
0:30:26 > 0:30:31I certainly could see myself living here. Oh, yes. Without a doubt.
0:30:31 > 0:30:35I like the quirkiness. The different rooms, the different levels.
0:30:35 > 0:30:39I'm getting warm vibes. It's welcoming.
0:30:39 > 0:30:42It's more than a house, it's a home.
0:30:46 > 0:30:50- So, did we definitely win you over with the house?- You did.
0:30:50 > 0:30:54- Yes, you did.- I know. It's been a long day, lots to take in.
0:30:54 > 0:30:58- Let's go think about it all.- Yes. - OK.- You've done very well for us.
0:30:58 > 0:31:00Incredibly, incredibly well.
0:31:06 > 0:31:10It's the second day of our property search in Cornwall,
0:31:10 > 0:31:12with Christina and Ralph from the West Midlands,
0:31:12 > 0:31:17who have a budget of £500,000. They're ready to escape city life
0:31:17 > 0:31:20and find a forever rural home together.
0:31:20 > 0:31:24Coming up is the Mystery House, which might just hit the mark.
0:31:24 > 0:31:28- I really like it, actually. - You don't have to whisper it.- No.
0:31:28 > 0:31:33- I don't know why I am. It's, sort of...- You're allowed to like it.
0:31:33 > 0:31:36And their dream of country living may be closer than they think.
0:31:36 > 0:31:40A view like that would change all the year round.
0:31:40 > 0:31:43You can't get better than that, really.
0:31:43 > 0:31:45I think we got there, in the end, yesterday.
0:31:45 > 0:31:48After showing Ralph and Christina two Cornish cottages
0:31:48 > 0:31:52in two very different settings, House Number Two came out on top.
0:31:52 > 0:31:54Moving onto the Mystery House,
0:31:54 > 0:31:56I'm going to show them a modern property,
0:31:56 > 0:31:58something I know they haven't asked for but,
0:31:58 > 0:32:00based on some of their comments yesterday,
0:32:00 > 0:32:02I think they may well need.
0:32:06 > 0:32:10And what do you both think we might be showing you
0:32:10 > 0:32:14with the Mystery Property or what are you both hoping?
0:32:14 > 0:32:19Well, I'm hoping that it's going to be somewhere on a quiet,
0:32:19 > 0:32:22very quiet lane or its own little lane,
0:32:22 > 0:32:26which... I'd love that. I would love a sea view.
0:32:26 > 0:32:31A little bit of land around it, so I could put my ex-army jeep...
0:32:31 > 0:32:38A walkable pub, semirural, in a village perhaps or a hamlet.
0:32:38 > 0:32:43This is going to be, remember, our forever home.
0:32:43 > 0:32:45It's important now.
0:32:45 > 0:32:49It's not a stepping stone house. It's not going to lead to another one.
0:32:49 > 0:32:54This has got to be right the first time. That's what makes it harder.
0:32:54 > 0:32:56- Absolutely. - We don't expect it to be perfect,
0:32:56 > 0:33:00but some of those ticked boxes have got to be in place.
0:33:00 > 0:33:04Also, I'd like a tin mine in the garden. With a...
0:33:06 > 0:33:11- fully operational steam engine man-lift.- And a beam engine.
0:33:11 > 0:33:15- Yeah, and a beam engine. - I don't think he's joking...
0:33:23 > 0:33:25For our third and final property,
0:33:25 > 0:33:28we're heading to the shores of Mounts Bay
0:33:28 > 0:33:29and the town of Marazion.
0:33:29 > 0:33:33Known as the gateway to the enchanting St Michael's Mount,
0:33:33 > 0:33:36Marazion is thought to have one of the most beautiful bays
0:33:36 > 0:33:39in the world. With its clean sandy beaches
0:33:39 > 0:33:43and a large selection of amenities, it's a holiday hot spot.
0:33:43 > 0:33:46I know Christina and Ralph are particularly keen on this area
0:33:46 > 0:33:50and, with the Mystery Property just a ten-minute walk away,
0:33:50 > 0:33:53it's also blessed with a beautiful rural backdrop.
0:33:54 > 0:33:58- Welcome to your Mystery House. - Oh, how nice.
0:33:58 > 0:34:02- Oh, it's THE perfect location. - Oh, really?- I cant believe it.
0:34:02 > 0:34:06- Are you OK with the fact that it's not a cottage?- Yes.
0:34:06 > 0:34:12It's not a cottage. Actually it looks a little bit like Ralph's own home.
0:34:12 > 0:34:15As we go through the house, you'll see why I wanted to show you this
0:34:15 > 0:34:18and just give you something different.
0:34:18 > 0:34:20- I can't wait to go inside. - Let's go inside!
0:34:23 > 0:34:28Built in 1976, this modern house offers different proportions
0:34:28 > 0:34:30to the previous two Cornish cottages.
0:34:30 > 0:34:33With generous-sized rooms, this property could actually
0:34:33 > 0:34:36'be more suited to Christina and Ralph's needs.'
0:34:36 > 0:34:40- How's this for a living room? - Lovely.- You've got my log burner!
0:34:40 > 0:34:44You've spotted it! You wanted a living room with a log burner.
0:34:44 > 0:34:47- I did.- Here you go.- Yes.
0:34:47 > 0:34:51This is the size of living room that I was talking about.
0:34:51 > 0:34:54- I like this size.- Take a deep breath. - Take a deep breath.
0:34:54 > 0:34:58- I mustn't get too excited.- No.- No.
0:34:58 > 0:35:02- It's fine. - I really like it, actually.
0:35:02 > 0:35:06- You don't have to whisper it. - No, I don't know why I am. Sort of...
0:35:06 > 0:35:09You're allowed to like it.
0:35:09 > 0:35:12Now, the reason we went for modern is because
0:35:12 > 0:35:16- you get an advantage of high ceilings, yes. Ralph?- Yes.
0:35:16 > 0:35:18- She's happy.- What do you think? - Are you happy?- Perfect.
0:35:18 > 0:35:22- Well, shall we go and see the kitchen, cos I know that's also important?- Yes, that would be good.
0:35:25 > 0:35:28On the ground floor, there's also a dining room and conservatory,
0:35:28 > 0:35:32which would be a perfect space for entertaining Christina and Ralph's
0:35:32 > 0:35:33visiting friends and family.
0:35:37 > 0:35:39This is the kitchen.
0:35:39 > 0:35:42- It's OK. It's a bit small.- Is it?
0:35:42 > 0:35:46But I'm not saying it's too small. No central island but that's all right.
0:35:46 > 0:35:50- Have you looked out there?- I have. - Amazing, amazing views.- Lovely.
0:35:50 > 0:35:55- Perfect, actually.- You can really enjoy your garden from this kitchen. - Yep, you can. You can.
0:35:55 > 0:35:59- Behind you is a utility room, which is about this size.- No!
0:35:59 > 0:36:02So it doubles up your kitchen size. What about the style of the kitchen?
0:36:02 > 0:36:06- What you think of the style? - I think it's lovely.- I do.
0:36:06 > 0:36:09- Let's go and see upstairs, eh? - Yes, good idea.
0:36:11 > 0:36:14Upstairs, there are three double bedrooms,
0:36:14 > 0:36:17which all have amazing views and a large bathroom.
0:36:17 > 0:36:21However, we're heading straight for the particularly spacious master.
0:36:21 > 0:36:26- Oh, wow.- Do you know, the whole house is a surprise.
0:36:26 > 0:36:30The outside of it isn't bad, but it doesn't really have
0:36:30 > 0:36:34the wow factor, but you walk inside and it's whizz-bang.
0:36:34 > 0:36:36This is what you'd see waking up every day.
0:36:36 > 0:36:37And it never stays the same,
0:36:37 > 0:36:40a view like that will change all the year round.
0:36:40 > 0:36:43You can't get better than that, really. It's beautiful.
0:36:43 > 0:36:45- And you've got an en suite just there, as well.- Lovely.
0:36:45 > 0:36:47- Go and pop your head round.- OK.
0:36:49 > 0:36:53- It's gorgeous. It's beautifully done. - Very functional.- Mm.
0:36:54 > 0:36:58Well, this house does come with some beautiful, beautiful gardens.
0:36:58 > 0:37:01Let me take you outside to show you.
0:37:01 > 0:37:04'The large garden here overlooks paddocks
0:37:04 > 0:37:06'and includes a vegetable patch, greenhouse, pond
0:37:06 > 0:37:10'and that all-important workshop for storing Ralph's tools,
0:37:10 > 0:37:13'for tinkering with his ex-military vehicles.'
0:37:13 > 0:37:19So, with this house comes, more or less, 360-degree gardens, really.
0:37:19 > 0:37:21It really goes all the way round.
0:37:21 > 0:37:24Slight problem with the traffic noise. I can't help it.
0:37:24 > 0:37:27- Does it bother you, Ralph? - What noise is that?
0:37:30 > 0:37:33- Not too much. - That's the compromise, I'm afraid.
0:37:33 > 0:37:38Let's guess the price. See how much this property is on the market for.
0:37:38 > 0:37:40Who'd like to go first?
0:37:40 > 0:37:44- You go first.- £465,000?
0:37:44 > 0:37:48I would say more. I would say £485,000.
0:37:48 > 0:37:53Ralph is on the money. It's on the market for exactly £465,000.
0:37:53 > 0:37:55That is a lot of house for the money.
0:37:55 > 0:37:58Go and have a look at the workshop because, Ralph, you will love it
0:37:58 > 0:38:01- and the other rooms that you haven't seen.- OK.- I'll see you out front.
0:38:03 > 0:38:06£35,000 below their top budget,
0:38:06 > 0:38:08this modern Mystery Property
0:38:08 > 0:38:09offers Christina and Ralph
0:38:09 > 0:38:11an alternative to the Cornish
0:38:11 > 0:38:13cottage they wanted and it seems
0:38:13 > 0:38:16to suit their needs even better.
0:38:16 > 0:38:17It comes with three bedrooms,
0:38:17 > 0:38:19spacious living accommodation,
0:38:19 > 0:38:20workshop
0:38:20 > 0:38:23and gorgeous countryside views.
0:38:26 > 0:38:29Oh, my word. Workshop!
0:38:29 > 0:38:32Oh, yeah, that'd do fine. Wonderful.
0:38:32 > 0:38:36I think the Mystery House is absolutely perfect.
0:38:36 > 0:38:41Well, coming to the Mystery House has taught me that our previous thoughts
0:38:41 > 0:38:47of the archetypal Cornish cottage may not really be what we're looking for.
0:38:49 > 0:38:54- Oh, my word, what a nice little dining room.- Oh, I rather like this.
0:38:54 > 0:38:56- It's like a small snug.- Yes, exactly.
0:38:56 > 0:38:59And haven't we said that would be what we'd want?
0:38:59 > 0:39:02When we walked through the door... Oh, my goodness me.
0:39:02 > 0:39:05I could not believe how beautiful it is.
0:39:05 > 0:39:09I love the inside of the house. The gardens are fantastic.
0:39:09 > 0:39:12The feelings I get when I walk around this house
0:39:12 > 0:39:17are very positive, warmly feelings
0:39:17 > 0:39:22that make me tend to want to live here. Yeah.
0:39:22 > 0:39:25We've seen a lot. There's a lot to discuss.
0:39:25 > 0:39:26Let's go and get a cup of tea and find out
0:39:26 > 0:39:29- what you both want to do next. - Good idea.- That's a lovely idea.
0:39:36 > 0:39:38There have been so many highs and lows with the houses
0:39:38 > 0:39:40we've shown Ralph and Christina.
0:39:40 > 0:39:42I just wish that I could wave a magic wand
0:39:42 > 0:39:45and combine all three houses and their locations,
0:39:45 > 0:39:48but since I don't have those powers, let's see what their plan is.
0:39:53 > 0:39:55It's been a busy couple of days, where you've liked some elements
0:39:55 > 0:40:00of all three houses and disliked some parts of them, too.
0:40:00 > 0:40:02Would you go for House One, Two or the Mystery?
0:40:04 > 0:40:07I wouldn't go for House Number One.
0:40:07 > 0:40:13Yes, House Number Two and House Number Three could be contenders.
0:40:13 > 0:40:17- For you, Ralph?- For me.- Christina, you're not happy with all three?
0:40:17 > 0:40:20I wouldn't put any of them down. They were all lovely in their own way.
0:40:20 > 0:40:23The first house, I like very much.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26It had lovely coastal views, but it was a bit remote
0:40:26 > 0:40:29and I know Ralph missed the stroll to the pub
0:40:29 > 0:40:32and maybe the 45 minutes might be a bit too much for him.
0:40:32 > 0:40:34The second house, again beautiful.
0:40:34 > 0:40:36It had things in it that I would have put there
0:40:36 > 0:40:40and it had quirkiness that I liked, and Ralph loved it
0:40:40 > 0:40:42but I was bothered about the road outside.
0:40:42 > 0:40:45The sitting room was a big problem for me, actually.
0:40:45 > 0:40:47It would have made a lovely snug,
0:40:47 > 0:40:50but only as long as there's a decent sitting room, as well.
0:40:50 > 0:40:54And a log fire in there, I would have loved that.
0:40:54 > 0:40:57The third house... I quite fell in love with it.
0:40:57 > 0:41:00And room to room to room, it just got better
0:41:00 > 0:41:02and that was before we'd arrived in the garden,
0:41:02 > 0:41:05with that gorgeous fish pond, a kitchen garden,
0:41:05 > 0:41:06which I've always wanted.
0:41:06 > 0:41:10It had the perfect place for Ralph's big greasy monster truck,
0:41:10 > 0:41:13which he's always wanted. It was just what we were looking for.
0:41:13 > 0:41:15I would have moved in on the spot,
0:41:15 > 0:41:18if I could only find a way to get over the traffic noise.
0:41:18 > 0:41:21So, all in all, I'm really sad to say that none of them
0:41:21 > 0:41:24quite hit the spot, but they all came very close.
0:41:24 > 0:41:27So, where do you go from here with this search?
0:41:27 > 0:41:31We'd have to travel round again and do a few drive-bys,
0:41:31 > 0:41:37until we maybe could find something that would suit us completely.
0:41:37 > 0:41:41What we've learned from this search is that we need to widen our scope
0:41:41 > 0:41:43and look for other things.
0:41:43 > 0:41:46Today, we came as close as any two people could come to finding
0:41:46 > 0:41:48the perfect property.
0:41:48 > 0:41:52We know it's out there and we don't think it's very far away now.
0:41:52 > 0:41:56So, the search continues. Well, the very best of luck to both of you.
0:41:56 > 0:42:00I hope you enjoy the search and find that perfect home
0:42:00 > 0:42:03- for the two of you.- Thank you. - And do let us know how you get on.
0:42:03 > 0:42:05- We will.- Thank you.- Thank you Sonali.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12Well, we may not have been able to find THE house
0:42:12 > 0:42:14for Ralph and Christina,
0:42:14 > 0:42:17but we have widened their search for a new home here in Cornwall.
0:42:17 > 0:42:20They want that perfect balance of absolutely no traffic
0:42:20 > 0:42:22and still being able to walk into a village,
0:42:22 > 0:42:25which is a very tough combination to find,
0:42:25 > 0:42:28so if they're not willing to compromise on location,
0:42:28 > 0:42:31they may have to rethink what they want from a property itself.
0:42:31 > 0:42:33I hope they find what they're looking for.
0:42:33 > 0:42:36See you next time on Escape to the Country.
0:42:36 > 0:42:40Since our house-hunt, Christina and Ralph have widened their search area
0:42:40 > 0:42:43and, with a further 12 houses to view, they're hoping
0:42:43 > 0:42:47that they'll find a rural home for their new life together very soon.
0:42:49 > 0:42:51If you'd like to escape to the country in England, Scotland,
0:42:51 > 0:42:55Wales or Northern Ireland and would like our help,
0:42:55 > 0:43:00you can apply online at...