0:00:02 > 0:00:05This Grade I listed Saxon church is home to a stunning memorial for a
0:00:05 > 0:00:10national hero, which was originally created for St Paul's Cathedral.
0:00:10 > 0:00:14Find out why it ended up here, and where I am, in just a moment.
0:00:31 > 0:00:32Today, a fun-loving pair
0:00:32 > 0:00:35are on the hunt for a welcoming country retreat.
0:00:35 > 0:00:38And then, when you have all your friends, and your mad parties,
0:00:38 > 0:00:41- before the DJ set.- That's it, yep.
0:00:41 > 0:00:43Next-door!
0:00:43 > 0:00:46And, hopefully, our properties prove they stand the test of time.
0:00:46 > 0:00:48The house is 16th century,
0:00:48 > 0:00:50- the beams could be at least 100 years older than that.- Gosh!
0:00:50 > 0:00:53So, it's certainly got some history going, have they?
0:00:53 > 0:00:55- So, it's not going to fall down then, is it?- It's certainly not
0:00:55 > 0:00:59going to fall down, she says, with her fingers crossed.
0:01:00 > 0:01:01Today, I'm in Dorset
0:01:01 > 0:01:05and this is St Martin's-on-the-walls Church, in Wareham,
0:01:05 > 0:01:09and here lies the beautiful effigy of one of the First World War's
0:01:09 > 0:01:11most remarkable figures,
0:01:11 > 0:01:13TE Lawrence,
0:01:13 > 0:01:16better known as Lawrence of Arabia.
0:01:16 > 0:01:19Renowned for his diplomatic efforts in the Middle East,
0:01:19 > 0:01:22Lawrence retired to Dorset to pursue his writing.
0:01:22 > 0:01:27After his death from a motorbike accident in 1935, his friend,
0:01:27 > 0:01:29the official war artist,
0:01:29 > 0:01:33Eric Kennington created a sculpture for St Paul's Cathedral.
0:01:33 > 0:01:37Now, due to political unrest at the time, it was rejected
0:01:37 > 0:01:41and finally found its home here, in this peaceful spot,
0:01:41 > 0:01:44just a few miles from where Lawrence lived.
0:01:44 > 0:01:45A rather fitting place,
0:01:45 > 0:01:48given his great affection for this county.
0:01:49 > 0:01:52Holding a prime position on England's south coast,
0:01:52 > 0:01:57Dorset is bordered by four counties, including Somerset and Wiltshire.
0:01:57 > 0:02:00There are no motorways or cities within its boundaries,
0:02:00 > 0:02:03making it a truly rural place.
0:02:03 > 0:02:08Instead, the winding lanes lead to around 150 villages, where idyllic
0:02:08 > 0:02:11limestone and thatched homes paint a perfect picture of country life.
0:02:13 > 0:02:16Travel from north to south and you're soon greeted
0:02:16 > 0:02:18by around 95 miles of Jurassic coastline.
0:02:18 > 0:02:20At the far west of Dorset Shore
0:02:20 > 0:02:23is the historic port of Lyme Regis,
0:02:23 > 0:02:26featuring its iconic 13th-century harbour,
0:02:26 > 0:02:28a curved, man-made sea rampart known as The Cobb.
0:02:30 > 0:02:33The region has celebrated monuments such as the 1,000-year-old
0:02:33 > 0:02:36ruins of Corfe Castle, a formal royal palace
0:02:36 > 0:02:39and survivor of the English Civil War.
0:02:39 > 0:02:42However, there is also plenty of life to experience
0:02:42 > 0:02:46at seaside resorts, particularly the elegant Georgian town of Weymouth,
0:02:46 > 0:02:48a truly British destination.
0:02:48 > 0:02:51Pastel-coloured deck chairs line the beach promenade,
0:02:51 > 0:02:53where day-trippers and locals alike can pause for a moment
0:02:53 > 0:02:57to drink in the county's spectacular scenery.
0:03:01 > 0:03:05At first glance, buying property in Dorset seems expensive
0:03:05 > 0:03:08when you learn the average price of a detached home
0:03:08 > 0:03:12is just over £343,000 -
0:03:12 > 0:03:16now that's £60,000 more than the national figure.
0:03:16 > 0:03:19But do remember, it takes into account the multi-million
0:03:19 > 0:03:23pound super-homes in the Sandbanks region of Poole,
0:03:23 > 0:03:28which has some of the most expensive real estate in the whole of the UK.
0:03:28 > 0:03:32The picture becomes more realistic if you travel inwards, towards
0:03:32 > 0:03:35the likes of Blandford Forum and Winterbourne,
0:03:35 > 0:03:36in the north of the county,
0:03:36 > 0:03:40where you'll find your budget goes that little bit further.
0:03:40 > 0:03:44So, with that in mind, let's find out where in this gorgeous
0:03:44 > 0:03:46county today's house-buyers want to move to.
0:03:49 > 0:03:52Today's buyers looking for a country escape are recently retired
0:03:52 > 0:03:55travelling sales rep Steve and his partner,
0:03:55 > 0:03:57civil servant, Sue.
0:03:57 > 0:04:00We met eight years ago on the internet
0:04:00 > 0:04:03and we talked for about two weeks on e-mails
0:04:03 > 0:04:06and, eight years later, we are looking to move together.
0:04:06 > 0:04:08We are, yes.
0:04:08 > 0:04:10- In one word, Steve is dippy. - Thank you.
0:04:12 > 0:04:16And I suppose, one word I would have to describe Sue,
0:04:16 > 0:04:18caring
0:04:18 > 0:04:20and...
0:04:20 > 0:04:21thoughtful.
0:04:21 > 0:04:23- That's two words.- That's two words.
0:04:24 > 0:04:27Soon after meeting, Steve made the move from Birmingham
0:04:27 > 0:04:29to be with Sue.
0:04:29 > 0:04:31But whilst living together has allowed romance to blossom,
0:04:31 > 0:04:34they're far from in love with their current location
0:04:34 > 0:04:37in the Hampshire town of Farnborough.
0:04:37 > 0:04:39If you walk, all you can see or hear, really,
0:04:39 > 0:04:42is the motorway and cars, and the town.
0:04:42 > 0:04:46It is very noisy and it's a little estate.
0:04:46 > 0:04:49Now that Steve's son and Sue's son and daughter are grown-up,
0:04:49 > 0:04:51and Sue is on the verge of retiring,
0:04:51 > 0:04:54the couple see an opportunity to move to more tranquil surroundings
0:04:54 > 0:04:57and are planning to purchase a property
0:04:57 > 0:05:00together for the first time.
0:05:00 > 0:05:02I was born in Dorset. I've always loved the seaside.
0:05:02 > 0:05:04We go back as much as we can.
0:05:04 > 0:05:08And who wouldn't want to live by the Jurassic coast?
0:05:08 > 0:05:09It's a lovely walking area.
0:05:09 > 0:05:13We both enjoy walking and, truthfully,
0:05:13 > 0:05:15there's no better county for me.
0:05:17 > 0:05:20But while they long for the peace and quiet of the countryside,
0:05:20 > 0:05:24they don't want their new lifestyle to be too sedate.
0:05:24 > 0:05:27We love entertaining. We are very sociable people.
0:05:27 > 0:05:29We enjoy doing barbecues.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32I used to be a DJ, back in the '70s,
0:05:32 > 0:05:37and we've still got a vast collection of records,
0:05:37 > 0:05:39and we do like our music a little bit higher
0:05:39 > 0:05:41than maybe normal people.
0:05:41 > 0:05:43So, just thinking about the neighbours,
0:05:43 > 0:05:47they might be happier if they're not joined up with us.
0:05:47 > 0:05:51So, dreams of garden parties to the sounds of the '70s.
0:05:51 > 0:05:55But what this disco-loving duo are really looking forward to
0:05:55 > 0:05:58is finally spending more time with each other.
0:05:58 > 0:06:00The move, to us, means a lot.
0:06:00 > 0:06:02It's just a new life.
0:06:02 > 0:06:05We'll be able to spend more time together,
0:06:05 > 0:06:06relax and just enjoy ourselves.
0:06:14 > 0:06:17Sue and Steve have asked us to concentrate our house-hunt in the
0:06:17 > 0:06:21villages around the three towns of Weymouth, Wareham and Dorchester.
0:06:21 > 0:06:24And it's on the windswept beach at Weymouth where we're meeting up, to
0:06:24 > 0:06:29find out just what they're looking for from their new country home.
0:06:29 > 0:06:33Well, Steve and Sue, lovely to meet you. Why do you want to move here?
0:06:33 > 0:06:35I was born in Christchurch, in Dorset,
0:06:35 > 0:06:37and I've always wanted to come back.
0:06:37 > 0:06:39And I'm just about to retire, so it's a good time.
0:06:39 > 0:06:43- So it feels like coming home?- It does, yes.- So, new life for you.
0:06:43 > 0:06:46What are you looking for in a property, in the area?
0:06:46 > 0:06:49Well, certainly, the house, we want a detached house.
0:06:49 > 0:06:55We want a nice garden, big enough for vegetables and entertaining,
0:06:55 > 0:06:59a conservatory. And, as far as the house is concerned...
0:06:59 > 0:07:01Well, three bedrooms because we've got family
0:07:01 > 0:07:03who'd obviously like to come and stay with us.
0:07:03 > 0:07:06Downstairs, we'd like possibly not open-plan,
0:07:06 > 0:07:09and I'd prefer a separate kitchen-dining room
0:07:09 > 0:07:11because I'm not the tidiest of people when I'm cooking.
0:07:11 > 0:07:13SHE LAUGHS Fair enough! Fair enough.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16Now, you two love entertaining.
0:07:16 > 0:07:20I've heard a rumour about karaoke, about DJing...
0:07:20 > 0:07:22- It's just a rumour! - LAUGHTER
0:07:22 > 0:07:24You're not going to want neighbours too close by, are you?
0:07:24 > 0:07:27- No, we don't them too close, no. - That's why a detached.- Right.
0:07:27 > 0:07:30Do you want to be sort of quite isolated, quite rural?
0:07:30 > 0:07:33Or would you like a community on your doorstep, ideally?
0:07:33 > 0:07:35- Ideally, a community on the doorstep.- Yes.
0:07:35 > 0:07:36We don't want to be too isolated.
0:07:36 > 0:07:39What's the situation with your current home in Hampshire?
0:07:39 > 0:07:42- It's been sold.- Yes. So you really are ready to move.- Yes.
0:07:42 > 0:07:46So, remind us how much we have to spend in this wonderful county.
0:07:46 > 0:07:50It's £435,000.
0:07:50 > 0:07:54Now, you're quite realistic of this area. You've got a little bit of knowledge, haven't you,
0:07:54 > 0:07:57- about the prices?- Sure.- So, we're looking around that field... - Around that.
0:07:57 > 0:08:01- 435 is what you actually want to pay.- Yeah, that's what we want to pay.- Right.
0:08:01 > 0:08:03Well, we do have some splendid properties lined up.
0:08:03 > 0:08:07- Shall we get started?- That's great. - Certainly, thank you.
0:08:07 > 0:08:10For their budget of £435,000,
0:08:10 > 0:08:14Sue and Steve are open-minded about the style of property they live in,
0:08:14 > 0:08:15but they want it to be detached,
0:08:15 > 0:08:17with a separate kitchen and dining room.
0:08:17 > 0:08:20They'd also love a conservatory.
0:08:20 > 0:08:23Upstairs, three bedrooms would be perfect for visiting family
0:08:23 > 0:08:25and, outside, they'd like a garden
0:08:25 > 0:08:28where they can grow vegetables and entertain.
0:08:28 > 0:08:30A property on the edge of a village,
0:08:30 > 0:08:33so they can be part of a local community, would be ideal.
0:08:33 > 0:08:38And being close to the coast would be the icing on the cake.
0:08:38 > 0:08:41We've selected three fabulous properties to tempt Sue and Steve
0:08:41 > 0:08:45to Dorset, but only after they've had a look around each one
0:08:45 > 0:08:47will the price be revealed to them.
0:08:47 > 0:08:50Our last offering is the Mystery House, which is sure to
0:08:50 > 0:08:53give them something new to think about and could be the home
0:08:53 > 0:08:56that brings Sue back to her roots.
0:08:58 > 0:09:02- You're both young retirees, aren't you?- Yes.- Yes.
0:09:02 > 0:09:04Do you think you're going to miss work at all, or are you done?
0:09:04 > 0:09:07- Um, I think I will miss the routine. - Yeah.
0:09:07 > 0:09:10But I can't see you two sitting still for very long.
0:09:10 > 0:09:12No, we certainly won't be.
0:09:12 > 0:09:15I mean, I want to take up fishing in a big way again.
0:09:15 > 0:09:17Why did you drop it?
0:09:17 > 0:09:21Well, when I met Sue, there were more important things, let's say.
0:09:21 > 0:09:24- More important things than fishing? - LAUGHTER
0:09:24 > 0:09:25More important things than fishing.
0:09:25 > 0:09:27But, Sue, you've gone back down again, I'm afraid.
0:09:27 > 0:09:30Fishing has come back up with this move. LAUGHTER
0:09:30 > 0:09:32I think she'll be glad, once she's retired,
0:09:32 > 0:09:34- to get rid of me for a while.- Yes.
0:09:34 > 0:09:37For our first property, we're travelling just three miles
0:09:37 > 0:09:41from the coast of Weymouth to the village of Sutton Poyntz.
0:09:41 > 0:09:44Sutton, meaning "south farm", was a manor
0:09:44 > 0:09:47owned by the Poyntz family in the 13th century.
0:09:47 > 0:09:50The picturesque village, with its buildings of Purbeck Stone,
0:09:50 > 0:09:54a local limestone, inspired the fictional village of Overthorpe
0:09:54 > 0:09:57in Thomas Hardy's novel, The Trumpet-Major.
0:09:57 > 0:09:59We're heading to a no-through road
0:09:59 > 0:10:01on the outskirts of the village,
0:10:01 > 0:10:04where there's a four-bedroom detached home
0:10:04 > 0:10:05I want to show Sue and Steve.
0:10:05 > 0:10:09So we do have an enchanting entrance.
0:10:09 > 0:10:12- This is a pleasant surprise. - Very, very nice.
0:10:12 > 0:10:14So, what do we think?
0:10:14 > 0:10:15Well, it's just lovely.
0:10:15 > 0:10:18Very characterful, but right on the edge of the village.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21- And look at that view over there! Oh, it's lovely.- It is, isn't it?
0:10:21 > 0:10:23Yes, very, very nice.
0:10:23 > 0:10:26The house was built in the 1970s, it has been extended
0:10:26 > 0:10:28in the last sort of 15 years or so.
0:10:28 > 0:10:31- Now, that's local Purbeck Stone. - Yes.- Right, shall we go in and see?
0:10:31 > 0:10:36I like that! Yes! Determination, motivation, let's go.
0:10:36 > 0:10:39A positive first impression for this property,
0:10:39 > 0:10:42which also features an attached double garage at the back.
0:10:42 > 0:10:45The living accommodation is accessed via the front entrance
0:10:45 > 0:10:48and we're starting off in the sitting-room.
0:10:48 > 0:10:51- It's just lovely and cosy.- Mmm, it's nice and bright as well, isn't it? - Yeah.
0:10:51 > 0:10:55- Is that a conservatory I can see out there?- So you have a conservatory here,
0:10:55 > 0:10:58- but you've also got a sunroom at the front of the property.- Yes.
0:10:58 > 0:11:02So off the hallway, as we came in, you've got a downstairs cloakroom.
0:11:02 > 0:11:05- Yeah.- Plus you've got storage... - Under the stairs.- Good.- Right?
0:11:05 > 0:11:08- I'm thinking of records there. - Oh, oh, yes. The records.
0:11:08 > 0:11:09LAUGHTER
0:11:09 > 0:11:12- How many in your collection? - I've still got about 5,000 left.
0:11:12 > 0:11:14- That's a lot of vinyl. - It's lot of vinyl.
0:11:14 > 0:11:18- So we like the sitting-room so far? - Yes, very nice.- Yes, very much.- Yes.
0:11:18 > 0:11:20OK, well, let's keep going.
0:11:20 > 0:11:22I'm going to take us through next to the kitchen.
0:11:24 > 0:11:27Here it is, overlooking part of your garden.
0:11:27 > 0:11:31- Oh, look at that amazing view. - It's great, isn't it?
0:11:31 > 0:11:34- It's lovely, isn't it?- Yes.- The kitchen as well, it's lovely.- Yes.
0:11:34 > 0:11:37- You've got your double ovens. - Definitely what I wanted.- Yep.
0:11:37 > 0:11:39- Yes, it's very nice.- It's working for you?- Yes, definitely.
0:11:39 > 0:11:42- Oh, definitely working for me, yeah.- Good.
0:11:42 > 0:11:44- It's got the country kitchen.- Yes.
0:11:44 > 0:11:47And you do have access to the garden.
0:11:47 > 0:11:50- Next-door to the kitchen is a separate dining room.- Oh, nice.
0:11:50 > 0:11:53- They prefer it being separate. - Yes, definitely for me.
0:11:53 > 0:11:56- So that actually works quite well for you, doesn't it? - Yes, definitely.
0:11:56 > 0:11:59Oh, yes, I've got to remember your entertaining, haven't I?
0:11:59 > 0:12:01- The social couple, we like that. - Yes.
0:12:01 > 0:12:03With your karaoke parties!
0:12:03 > 0:12:06All right, well, let's head upstairs and see what you make of that.
0:12:06 > 0:12:11Upstairs provides plenty of space, with a long central landing
0:12:11 > 0:12:14leading to a family bathroom serving three bedrooms.
0:12:14 > 0:12:18Two individually styled doubles, each featuring their own wash basin,
0:12:18 > 0:12:22and a third that the current owners use as an office,
0:12:22 > 0:12:26but could be another storage option for Steve's precious records.
0:12:26 > 0:12:30And the fourth bedroom is of course the master.
0:12:30 > 0:12:31Oh, this is great.
0:12:31 > 0:12:33And this has something that you didn't ask for,
0:12:33 > 0:12:35but I know you're going to like.
0:12:35 > 0:12:37- It has an en-suite. BOTH:- Oh!- Lovely.
0:12:37 > 0:12:40- Yes.- So it seems to be working.
0:12:40 > 0:12:43What feeling are you getting with this property?
0:12:43 > 0:12:45It's nice and cosy.
0:12:45 > 0:12:48Even though it's a modern house, it's still got a nice feel to it.
0:12:48 > 0:12:52Mmm. OK. Well, let's head back downstairs because we've
0:12:52 > 0:12:54got to look at the conservatory
0:12:54 > 0:12:57- and that all-important garden, haven't we?- Yes.
0:12:57 > 0:13:00This house seems to be coming up trumps so far,
0:13:00 > 0:13:03but I hope things are about to get even better.
0:13:03 > 0:13:06With barbecues and entertaining high on their agenda, I can't wait
0:13:06 > 0:13:10to show them the fabulous bright room that overlooks the garden.
0:13:11 > 0:13:15- Now, you do have this wonderful conservatory.- Oh, it's lovely.
0:13:15 > 0:13:19- By the looks of it, it's used nearly all year round.- It is, isn't it?
0:13:19 > 0:13:24Which leads us to this very secluded private terrace.
0:13:24 > 0:13:26- Oh, it's lovely.- Yeah. - Oh, that's very nice.
0:13:26 > 0:13:30- I can hear a water feature. - Ah!- It's quite calming, isn't it?
0:13:30 > 0:13:33- Yes, it is very calming. - Yes. That's super.
0:13:33 > 0:13:37- It's smaller than probably we would have liked.- Yeah.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40But it's tasteful. It's very, very nice.
0:13:40 > 0:13:42Yes, and the front garden's very private, isn't it?
0:13:42 > 0:13:44- Yeah.- So you can sit there as well. - It is.
0:13:44 > 0:13:46- So, really, you could say you've got two gardens.- Mmm.
0:13:46 > 0:13:49- So I'm going to have to bring you back to reality.- Oh, yes.
0:13:49 > 0:13:50You've sold your home.
0:13:50 > 0:13:52I wonder if this is going to be your next one.
0:13:52 > 0:13:55Let's put a price on our first home.
0:13:55 > 0:13:57- Shall I go first?- Yes, you go first.
0:13:57 > 0:14:02- Well, I think it's going to be over budget, so I'm going to say 440.- OK.
0:14:02 > 0:14:06I will like to think that it's 435.
0:14:06 > 0:14:12- The asking price is £450,000.- Hmm.
0:14:12 > 0:14:14We have spoken to the owners
0:14:14 > 0:14:19- and they are happy to have a sensible conversation...- Right.
0:14:19 > 0:14:20..if you want to take it further.
0:14:20 > 0:14:24- They are also aware of your top budget.- Right, right.- Mm-hm.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27- Oh, well, that's interesting, isn't it?- Yes.
0:14:27 > 0:14:30- I guess you two would like to take a little look on your own now.- Yes.
0:14:30 > 0:14:35- Yes, we would.- Certainly would. - Please do. Steve, Sue... - OK, thank you.- ..have a wander.
0:14:35 > 0:14:38The current asking price of this detached house
0:14:38 > 0:14:41nudges £15,000 over Sue and Steve's budget
0:14:41 > 0:14:45but, with the vendor open to offers, it could still be theirs.
0:14:45 > 0:14:48The requested conservatory, along with the beautifully
0:14:48 > 0:14:52maintained secluded garden, could be perfect for entertaining.
0:14:52 > 0:14:56The double garage could be used for hobbies, storage space or
0:14:56 > 0:15:00even converted into more living accommodation in the future.
0:15:00 > 0:15:02This house is also well-located,
0:15:02 > 0:15:05within easy reach of the coast and Weymouth.
0:15:05 > 0:15:08It is very, very nice.
0:15:08 > 0:15:11Everything in the property is very tasteful.
0:15:11 > 0:15:14Conservatory is a lot bigger than I thought it would be.
0:15:14 > 0:15:18It's light, it's airy, it faces the south in the morning.
0:15:18 > 0:15:21That's... I couldn't wish for more.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23Oh, yeah.
0:15:23 > 0:15:26- They've got a barbecue up here as well.- Yes.
0:15:26 > 0:15:29- So, actually, it's a lot bigger than it seems.- Yes, it does, doesn't it?
0:15:29 > 0:15:32Because you can use that for your barbecue...
0:15:32 > 0:15:35- And that's straight through to the garden as well.- Yes.
0:15:35 > 0:15:37- And they've got a little... - Greenhouse.
0:15:37 > 0:15:39Yeah, they've got a little greenhouse on the side,
0:15:39 > 0:15:40which is all very nice.
0:15:40 > 0:15:43This is an ideal location, right out in the country,
0:15:43 > 0:15:46but not too far from the major town of Weymouth.
0:15:46 > 0:15:50We're a lot closer to the sea than we thought we ever would be,
0:15:50 > 0:15:52so I'm very, very pleased.
0:15:55 > 0:15:58So, our very first property.
0:15:58 > 0:16:00- What do we think?- It was amazing.
0:16:00 > 0:16:03- I don't know how you're going to beat that. - LAUGHTER
0:16:03 > 0:16:05Do we have our work cut out, do you think?
0:16:05 > 0:16:06I think you certainly do.
0:16:06 > 0:16:08I like the challenge cos we have more to show you.
0:16:08 > 0:16:09- Oh, good.- Great.- Let's go.
0:16:15 > 0:16:18For our second property, we're heading north and inland,
0:16:18 > 0:16:2130 miles from the county town of Dorchester
0:16:21 > 0:16:23to the village of Mappowder.
0:16:23 > 0:16:25With the name meaning "maple tree",
0:16:25 > 0:16:28Mappowder has a striking parish church,
0:16:28 > 0:16:31constructed in the perpendicular Gothic style,
0:16:31 > 0:16:34with strong vertical lines and large windows.
0:16:34 > 0:16:37Parts of the building date back to the 12th century.
0:16:37 > 0:16:41It's just two and a half miles from the amenities of Hazelbury Bryan,
0:16:41 > 0:16:44where there's a pub, a well-stocked village store
0:16:44 > 0:16:46and a post office.
0:16:46 > 0:16:49A five-minute drive back to Mappowder
0:16:49 > 0:16:52is this detached three-bedroom period cottage
0:16:52 > 0:16:53I want to show our couple next.
0:16:55 > 0:16:58- And this is the second house. - Oh, it's a thatch!
0:16:58 > 0:17:00It's a 16th-century thatch.
0:17:00 > 0:17:03- Very old, then.- Amazing, yes.
0:17:03 > 0:17:06They last, on average, about 30 years.
0:17:06 > 0:17:09This one was done 15 years ago, and the ridge on the top has been done
0:17:09 > 0:17:12very recently, so it's estimated you'll probably get another
0:17:12 > 0:17:15good 15 years out of that, as long as you keep an eye on the ridge.
0:17:15 > 0:17:18- So, we haven't scared you, we haven't put you off?- No, no.
0:17:18 > 0:17:21- Not at all. - No, I love the roses above the door.
0:17:21 > 0:17:25- It's a very chocolate box cottage. - It certainly is, certainly is.
0:17:25 > 0:17:27Well, let's see what you make of the inside.
0:17:29 > 0:17:32This delightful Grade Two listed cottage was
0:17:32 > 0:17:36extended at the back on the ground floor eight years ago.
0:17:36 > 0:17:38But we're starting in the old part of the home,
0:17:38 > 0:17:40with its many original features.
0:17:42 > 0:17:45So, the door opens straight into the sitting-room.
0:17:45 > 0:17:47I love the fireplace.
0:17:47 > 0:17:50Oh, well, straight away, you look straight at it, don't you?
0:17:50 > 0:17:53- It's wonderful.- Yeah. - What are we thinking of the beams?
0:17:53 > 0:17:57They don't worry me at all. I don't know what Sue feels about that.
0:17:57 > 0:18:01It does feel...obviously, it's a cottage, so it does feel very low.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04I'm not tall enough to bang my head on that one,
0:18:04 > 0:18:06- so that's not a problem. - The house is 16th century -
0:18:06 > 0:18:09- the beams could be at least 100 years older than that.- Gosh.
0:18:09 > 0:18:11So, it's certainly got some history going, haven't they?
0:18:11 > 0:18:15- So, it's not going to fall down, then?- So, they're not going to
0:18:15 > 0:18:17fall down, she says, with her fingers crossed!
0:18:17 > 0:18:21So, we can go one of two ways, either straight ahead towards
0:18:21 > 0:18:23the light, so to speak, or we can turn left.
0:18:23 > 0:18:25I tell you what, let's turn left, see what's in there.
0:18:25 > 0:18:28- OK, we will see what's in there. - OK, yep.
0:18:28 > 0:18:31So, next-door is a separate dining room.
0:18:31 > 0:18:33- Oh, this is lovely, isn't it? - Oh, that's nice.
0:18:33 > 0:18:37It's very light, isn't it? They've lightened this room nicely.
0:18:37 > 0:18:41- Yes, and a wood store there. - Yes, for your wood burner.
0:18:41 > 0:18:44It's got the lovely sort of smell about it as well, hasn't it?
0:18:44 > 0:18:45A bit like a fire.
0:18:45 > 0:18:48So, if we've got a dining room that we all agree is rather wonderful,
0:18:48 > 0:18:52- we also need...- A kitchen. - The kitchen.
0:18:52 > 0:18:54So, the kitchen is through here.
0:18:54 > 0:18:57Now, this is the extension. Beautiful garden there.
0:18:57 > 0:18:59- It's very nice. - The sun coming through.
0:18:59 > 0:19:03I think I'll need sunglasses. Here's the kitchen.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06It definitely works, having this extension out the back.
0:19:06 > 0:19:09And it must be very difficult to build onto a building
0:19:09 > 0:19:13- that has been around since the 1500s.- I know. Amazing.- Yes.
0:19:13 > 0:19:17Also, it's been built out of brick, rather than the local stone.
0:19:17 > 0:19:21- They've done this very well.- What do you think of the kitchen itself?
0:19:21 > 0:19:23- Yes, it's nice and light. - I quite like the cupboards.
0:19:23 > 0:19:26- I like the flagstone flooring. - Yeah, that's nice.
0:19:26 > 0:19:29I think it goes with the whole thing, sort of fits in nicely.
0:19:29 > 0:19:31How do you feel about the house so far?
0:19:31 > 0:19:35I would say I'm not as wowed as the last house,
0:19:35 > 0:19:38- but I'm still keeping an open mind about it.- It's different, isn't it?
0:19:38 > 0:19:39It is.
0:19:41 > 0:19:44The ground floor of this charming cottage also provides
0:19:44 > 0:19:48a utility space and a cloakroom with a useful shower.
0:19:48 > 0:19:51Stairs lead up to a landing, where there's a modern family bathroom
0:19:51 > 0:19:53shared by three bedrooms -
0:19:53 > 0:19:55a cosy single,
0:19:55 > 0:19:57a compact double
0:19:57 > 0:20:00and another larger double bedroom.
0:20:00 > 0:20:04A little bit smaller than, probably, I'd have liked,
0:20:04 > 0:20:07but a nice seated area over there.
0:20:07 > 0:20:09Yeah, a nice window seat.
0:20:09 > 0:20:11Even though it opens out onto the road,
0:20:11 > 0:20:13I guess this isn't a busy road, is it?
0:20:13 > 0:20:15No, it's a quiet road, isn't it?
0:20:15 > 0:20:19- Right.- So, I guess it's time to head out and take a look at the garden,
0:20:19 > 0:20:22- the all-important garden. - OK. Let's go.
0:20:22 > 0:20:24We're going to follow you this time, Steve.
0:20:24 > 0:20:27The cottage may not have wowed Sue and Steve so far,
0:20:27 > 0:20:31but the real bonus here lies outside.
0:20:31 > 0:20:34There's a pretty mature front garden, a garage that could be
0:20:34 > 0:20:39used for DJ paraphernalia, and the star feature, a third of an acre
0:20:39 > 0:20:42back garden with views across miles of rolling countryside.
0:20:42 > 0:20:45We're getting blown around, but it's not going to
0:20:45 > 0:20:48- detract from the garden, is it? - It's a beautiful garden.
0:20:48 > 0:20:51- I see we've got a little pool over there as well.- Just for you.
0:20:51 > 0:20:53We'll get you a stall and a fishing rod.
0:20:53 > 0:20:56- And a lovely view behind us, isn't it?- Gorgeous view,
0:20:56 > 0:20:59as far as the eye can see, and that's what you're after, isn't it?
0:20:59 > 0:21:01- Yes, yeah. - That's what you are after.
0:21:01 > 0:21:04Also, what you could do is have a wooden building,
0:21:04 > 0:21:07a little wooden shed down here, the barbecue,
0:21:07 > 0:21:08could be a summer house.
0:21:08 > 0:21:11Play your music, invite your guests to the back of the garden.
0:21:11 > 0:21:14- Don't have to worry about anybody else.- Yeah, that's a good idea.
0:21:14 > 0:21:17Well, we've got to put a price on this house.
0:21:17 > 0:21:21- Oh, and I suppose it's my go first this time.- Why not, Steve? Why not?
0:21:21 > 0:21:25- Come on, what are we thinking?- Well, I think I'm going to go for 410.
0:21:25 > 0:21:29- 410. OK, then.- I think maybe a bit more than that, 415.
0:21:29 > 0:21:33Your top budget is £435,000.
0:21:33 > 0:21:34The asking price
0:21:34 > 0:21:37- is 449,950.- Oh.
0:21:37 > 0:21:41So, £50 off that £450,000 mark.
0:21:41 > 0:21:44It's been on the market since late last summer.
0:21:44 > 0:21:48The owner is keen, so, if you were interested,
0:21:48 > 0:21:52he would look at the top of your budget, around the £435,000 mark.
0:21:52 > 0:21:54- We have had that conversation. - Oh, right.- OK.- Yep.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57So, take the opportunity now on your own. Have a chat,
0:21:57 > 0:22:00walk around together, and I think I'm going to get out of the wind.
0:22:00 > 0:22:03- OK, Nicki, we'll see you...- After you.
0:22:03 > 0:22:08This Grade Two listed cottage may be £15,000 over Sue and Steve's
0:22:08 > 0:22:11top budget, but as the owner is willing to negotiate,
0:22:11 > 0:22:15this home could make Dorset country living a reality.
0:22:15 > 0:22:18It has the three bedrooms they've asked for
0:22:18 > 0:22:20and a garage that could offer additional storage,
0:22:20 > 0:22:23plus plenty of garden space for barbecues.
0:22:23 > 0:22:27It's a real picture book Dorset country cottage.
0:22:27 > 0:22:28I like the extension.
0:22:28 > 0:22:30The kitchen was very nice
0:22:30 > 0:22:33and, really, the garden was superb.
0:22:33 > 0:22:35The garden is very nice,
0:22:35 > 0:22:38lots of potential to change it into the way we want it,
0:22:38 > 0:22:39and the views were lovely.
0:22:39 > 0:22:41Ah, my couple!
0:22:41 > 0:22:43- Have you seen enough?- Yes, we have.
0:22:43 > 0:22:46So, we've shown you contrasting styles
0:22:46 > 0:22:49and contrasting periods of property. Quite different today, isn't it?
0:22:49 > 0:22:51- Yes.- It certainly was. - Two very different properties.
0:22:51 > 0:22:54So, you can relax now. You can think about what you've seen.
0:22:54 > 0:22:57And guess what? We've got another little treasure up our sleeve
0:22:57 > 0:22:58for tomorrow morning.
0:22:58 > 0:23:01- Oh, looking forward to it. - Yeah, the Mystery House.- Oh, yes.
0:23:01 > 0:23:03Oh, yes. Come on.
0:23:11 > 0:23:13It's the second day in Dorset and,
0:23:13 > 0:23:16armed with a budget of £435,000,
0:23:16 > 0:23:19we're on a mission to find Sue and Steve from Farnborough
0:23:19 > 0:23:21in Hampshire the first home they've bought together
0:23:21 > 0:23:24in a county they both love.
0:23:24 > 0:23:27We've still got a shiny new Mystery House to reveal.
0:23:27 > 0:23:30This was a property that you might not have considered yourselves.
0:23:30 > 0:23:32No, I don't think we would, definitely not.
0:23:34 > 0:23:38Well, we started off yesterday on the right note.
0:23:38 > 0:23:41After meeting Sue and Steve on the beach in Weymouth, our first
0:23:41 > 0:23:46property was literally just a few miles away and very well received.
0:23:46 > 0:23:50A great start to our property search here in Dorset.
0:23:50 > 0:23:53Our second offering, that beautiful thatched house,
0:23:53 > 0:23:57more north of the county, didn't quite hit the mark with our couple,
0:23:57 > 0:24:01although they both fell in love with the garden and that amazing vista.
0:24:01 > 0:24:04So, it's time now for our third and final home.
0:24:04 > 0:24:07Of course, it is our Mystery House.
0:24:07 > 0:24:10Now, I think this is a property that our couple wouldn't have
0:24:10 > 0:24:11considered themselves.
0:24:11 > 0:24:15It was only built a few years ago, but it certainly has the character
0:24:15 > 0:24:19and style that they're after and, my goodness, what a garden.
0:24:21 > 0:24:25Well, after yesterday, have you been dreaming and thinking about houses?
0:24:25 > 0:24:28Definitely. We've been discussing house number one.
0:24:28 > 0:24:31Just that garden was... It's the only thing we're not sure about.
0:24:31 > 0:24:34We've already been planning things we could do with it.
0:24:34 > 0:24:36But it's a new day.
0:24:36 > 0:24:39It's a new day, it's a new Mystery House.
0:24:39 > 0:24:42- It is, yes.- What's going through your minds?
0:24:42 > 0:24:45Well, I hope it's not a converted chapel,
0:24:45 > 0:24:49but I wonder if it might be something with a project.
0:24:49 > 0:24:52I don't know, I think it could probably be a new build,
0:24:52 > 0:24:54or maybe one-level living.
0:24:54 > 0:24:58- Hopefully not too many negative things.- Yeah.- We are quite open!
0:25:01 > 0:25:04The destination for our mystery property is ten miles
0:25:04 > 0:25:08north-east of Dorchester in the village of Melcombe Bingham.
0:25:08 > 0:25:11The village merges with the further settlement of Anstey,
0:25:11 > 0:25:15where there's a local shop, a handy post office,
0:25:15 > 0:25:18pub and even a garden centre in close proximity.
0:25:20 > 0:25:21Back in Melcombe Bingham,
0:25:21 > 0:25:25bookworms are served by a reading exchange and mobile library,
0:25:25 > 0:25:29while the pathways around the Dorset Downs are very popular with walkers.
0:25:29 > 0:25:33The village itself is dotted with plenty of pretty period
0:25:33 > 0:25:38properties, but I have a surprise in store for Sue and Steve.
0:25:38 > 0:25:42The centrally-located detached Mystery House may not be old,
0:25:42 > 0:25:45but it still has plenty of character.
0:25:45 > 0:25:49So, it is our final property to show you, here in Dorset.
0:25:49 > 0:25:51- It's not a converted chapel! - It's not a converted chapel!
0:25:51 > 0:25:55- But it is a new build.- It is a new build.- It's lovely, isn't it?
0:25:55 > 0:25:56- Yes, yeah.- Very interesting.
0:25:56 > 0:25:58We thought this was a property
0:25:58 > 0:26:00that you might not have considered yourselves.
0:26:00 > 0:26:02No, I don't think we would, definitely not.
0:26:02 > 0:26:05- What's going through your minds? - It's very nice.
0:26:05 > 0:26:08I do like the look. I like the flint in the brick and the windows.
0:26:08 > 0:26:12- We like the outside. Let's see what you think inside.- Great.
0:26:12 > 0:26:13Built in the year 2000,
0:26:13 > 0:26:17the characterful nature of the mystery property has
0:26:17 > 0:26:21so far been a hit, and the charm offensive continues inside,
0:26:21 > 0:26:24as we go through the entrance hallway
0:26:24 > 0:26:26and head to the sitting room.
0:26:26 > 0:26:28- Oh, this is very nice. - Oh, yes, I like this.
0:26:28 > 0:26:31I like the French windows. The French doors out to the patio.
0:26:31 > 0:26:34Love the beam as well, and it fits with the fireplace.
0:26:34 > 0:26:35Beautiful fireplace.
0:26:35 > 0:26:37You wouldn't realise it was a new build.
0:26:37 > 0:26:39It's got character, hasn't it, and charm?
0:26:39 > 0:26:42- Yeah, it has, a lot of character.- So far, so good?- So far, so good.
0:26:42 > 0:26:44Well, if you'd like to follow me.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51- The all-important separate dining room...- Oh, yes.
0:26:51 > 0:26:55- ..right next-door to our kitchen. - Yeah, that's really nice.
0:26:55 > 0:26:59- Lovely size.- I like the colour of the cupboards.- Yeah.
0:26:59 > 0:27:01- Oh, look at that cooker.- Ah.
0:27:02 > 0:27:05- So, for the two of you, perfect dining area.- Yeah.
0:27:05 > 0:27:08And then, when you have all your friends and your mad parties,
0:27:08 > 0:27:10before the DJ set. SHE IMITATES DANCE MUSIC
0:27:10 > 0:27:12Next-door!
0:27:12 > 0:27:14Sue, would you change anything in this kitchen?
0:27:14 > 0:27:18- No, I don't think I would change anything in the kitchen.- No.
0:27:18 > 0:27:19- Heading upstairs now.- OK.
0:27:21 > 0:27:24The ground floor also has a utility space and cloakroom,
0:27:24 > 0:27:27whilst upstairs the landing leads to a family bathroom,
0:27:27 > 0:27:30which serves three bedrooms.
0:27:30 > 0:27:32There are two doubles at the front of the house,
0:27:32 > 0:27:36one slightly smaller than the other, and a third bedroom at the back,
0:27:36 > 0:27:39which is currently being used as a study.
0:27:39 > 0:27:41Next to it, a master en-suite,
0:27:41 > 0:27:44which enjoys a peaceful outlook over the garden.
0:27:45 > 0:27:49Yes, a nice size. Just the right size, really.
0:27:49 > 0:27:50You don't want anything too big.
0:27:50 > 0:27:53I mean, you know, we only sleep up here, don't we?
0:27:53 > 0:27:56The storage is in there as well.
0:27:56 > 0:27:59Now, we know that the garden is just as important as the house.
0:27:59 > 0:28:01I keep looking out the window.
0:28:01 > 0:28:04- So, Steve, if you wouldn't mind making your way back downstairs.- OK.
0:28:04 > 0:28:08Thank you. And, Sue, there's something very special in the garden for Steve.
0:28:08 > 0:28:10Oh, good, I can't wait.
0:28:10 > 0:28:15A great response to the house and, outside, the impressively landscaped
0:28:15 > 0:28:19garden wrapping around the property has more to wow Sue and Steve.
0:28:19 > 0:28:22They could enjoy their own produce from a vegetable patch
0:28:22 > 0:28:25and fruit trees and, with a choice of areas to barbecue,
0:28:25 > 0:28:28it's a perfect space for guests.
0:28:28 > 0:28:30Plus, after all that entertaining,
0:28:30 > 0:28:35they could unwind next to the rather special water feature.
0:28:35 > 0:28:36Tah-dah!
0:28:36 > 0:28:39- Your own river.- There you go. - Oh, that's nice.
0:28:39 > 0:28:43You could be fishing out here for hours. You might not catch anything.
0:28:43 > 0:28:46- It'll keep you busy. - Yeah, what a feature.
0:28:46 > 0:28:50It's not every day we can find a beautiful garden with a stream.
0:28:50 > 0:28:52Oh, it's fabulous. It really is nice.
0:28:52 > 0:28:57- What do we think?- I think it's beautiful.- Yeah. Ooh! And I like it.
0:28:57 > 0:29:01It's just the sound of water. It's sitting there, hearing the water,
0:29:01 > 0:29:05- it just does something to you.- Very peaceful.- It calms you down.
0:29:05 > 0:29:10So, for our final time, we've got to put an amount on our Mystery House.
0:29:10 > 0:29:14I think this is definitely over budget, so I'm going to say 460.
0:29:14 > 0:29:16OK.
0:29:16 > 0:29:19Oh, I would say 445.
0:29:19 > 0:29:21Asking price...
0:29:21 > 0:29:23£450,000.
0:29:23 > 0:29:25- Mm.- Right.
0:29:25 > 0:29:28One thing I will say is - you have sold your property.
0:29:28 > 0:29:32- You're in a great position to have a conversation.- Yeah.
0:29:32 > 0:29:35Yes, certainly, we've got to talk about this, haven't we?
0:29:35 > 0:29:38- Yes, yes.- So, I guess you're going to want to have another little
0:29:38 > 0:29:41- look around on your own this time. - We certainly are.- Please do.
0:29:41 > 0:29:45- Enjoy it. See you in a little while. - Thanks.
0:29:45 > 0:29:48This house may be £15,000 over budget,
0:29:48 > 0:29:51but, with their house already sold, our buyers couldn't be
0:29:51 > 0:29:54in a stronger position to negotiate with the vendor.
0:29:54 > 0:29:58With four bedrooms, there's space for Steve's records.
0:29:58 > 0:30:00Downstairs, the large sitting room
0:30:00 > 0:30:04and separate dining room are ideal for indoor entertaining.
0:30:04 > 0:30:08Outside, the landscaped gardens could be used to host parties,
0:30:08 > 0:30:11and what could be better for angling enthusiast Steve
0:30:11 > 0:30:14than his very own stretch of stream?
0:30:14 > 0:30:17Well, it's certainly a house with a wow factor.
0:30:17 > 0:30:21They've done it so tastefully and four bedrooms, which is a plus.
0:30:21 > 0:30:23Ideal.
0:30:23 > 0:30:26- Look at that. Lovely, isn't it?- Beautiful.
0:30:26 > 0:30:28HE LAUGHS
0:30:28 > 0:30:30I'm blown away by the garden.
0:30:30 > 0:30:33It's so well set out, so many different areas. Just lovely.
0:30:33 > 0:30:35I don't think we could ask for any more.
0:30:35 > 0:30:39We're going to have a big, big problem deciding. This is very nice.
0:30:39 > 0:30:41I'm very impressed with the mystery house.
0:30:41 > 0:30:43I'm glad that we were brought here.
0:30:47 > 0:30:51Oh, my word. We have put the cat amongst the pigeons, haven't we?
0:30:51 > 0:30:54- Definitely.- That was going to be my exact words.- Was it?
0:30:54 > 0:30:57Yeah, we don't know what to do now.
0:30:57 > 0:30:59Yes, it's so lovely,
0:30:59 > 0:31:00and so quiet and peaceful.
0:31:00 > 0:31:03You two need a bit of time together, don't you?
0:31:03 > 0:31:07- We certainly do. We've a lot to talk about.- Yeah. Have a chat.
0:31:07 > 0:31:09Let's have a little drink
0:31:09 > 0:31:11and find out what your next move is going to be.
0:31:11 > 0:31:13- OK. Sounds good to us.- Come on.
0:31:18 > 0:31:22I've had a very enjoyable few days with Sue and Steve,
0:31:22 > 0:31:25showing them around this rather wonderful county.
0:31:25 > 0:31:27We've shown them three properties.
0:31:27 > 0:31:29We've had two great reactions,
0:31:29 > 0:31:32but I think I left them rather confused.
0:31:32 > 0:31:34Confused with which way to go next.
0:31:34 > 0:31:38So, we've given them some time to settle their thoughts.
0:31:38 > 0:31:40Let's see what they've got to say.
0:31:41 > 0:31:46Well, Steve and Sue, our music and gardening-loving couple,
0:31:46 > 0:31:50- I wonder, how have we done, Sue? - You've done exceptionally well.
0:31:50 > 0:31:52We loved house number one and, today,
0:31:52 > 0:31:55when we saw the new-build house, which we never thought
0:31:55 > 0:31:58we would look at, we were astounded by that one as well.
0:31:58 > 0:32:00- So, the Mystery House... - Yes, the Mystery House.
0:32:00 > 0:32:04- ..did its magic. - It's fabulous from the outside.
0:32:04 > 0:32:05It was a little further out,
0:32:05 > 0:32:08a little further north than maybe we would have liked.
0:32:08 > 0:32:13- So, the first house, very close to Weymouth.- Yes.- Right by the coast.
0:32:13 > 0:32:16What is it about that property that appealed so much?
0:32:16 > 0:32:19We didn't think we would get a house that close to the
0:32:19 > 0:32:22coast for the price we could afford.
0:32:22 > 0:32:25And the house itself, when you walked into the house,
0:32:25 > 0:32:27the upstairs was fabulous.
0:32:27 > 0:32:30The downstairs, again, I couldn't really fault it.
0:32:30 > 0:32:32The garden was the only area
0:32:32 > 0:32:35that is a possible problem with
0:32:35 > 0:32:38the house, but I like it.
0:32:38 > 0:32:41I certainly would have given that nine out of ten.
0:32:41 > 0:32:43In fact, we like it so much we've made an appointment to go back
0:32:43 > 0:32:47- and see it tomorrow.- Have you?!- Yes. - Already?!- Already, yes.
0:32:47 > 0:32:50- First thing tomorrow morning? - Yes.- Oh, well, that's great.
0:32:50 > 0:32:52That's sounding very, very positive.
0:32:52 > 0:32:55And perhaps the compromise is,
0:32:55 > 0:32:58being so close to the sea, there's a smaller garden.
0:32:58 > 0:33:00- It is.- Yeah, when you look at budgets and things.
0:33:00 > 0:33:02Well, we've just given you a flavour,
0:33:02 > 0:33:03but you like the taste, don't you?
0:33:03 > 0:33:05- We do.- We do, yes.
0:33:05 > 0:33:07I really hope that second viewing tomorrow,
0:33:07 > 0:33:09with the property right by the coast, goes well.
0:33:09 > 0:33:12And let's hope it's yours in a matter of months.
0:33:12 > 0:33:14- I will be keeping everything crossed.- Thank you very much.
0:33:14 > 0:33:16Thank you very much.
0:33:18 > 0:33:22We often talk about the high cost of living by the sea, but,
0:33:22 > 0:33:25as you've just heard, if you're willing to compromise,
0:33:25 > 0:33:27you can have the best of both worlds -
0:33:27 > 0:33:30countryside and coastal living.
0:33:30 > 0:33:31For Steve and Sue,
0:33:31 > 0:33:35this is the start of an exciting new chapter in their lives -
0:33:35 > 0:33:38the first time they will have bought a house together.
0:33:38 > 0:33:42I just hope that second viewing goes as well as the first.
0:33:42 > 0:33:45And that's it. It's goodbye from me from Dorset,
0:33:45 > 0:33:48but I'll see you again on Escape To The Country.
0:33:49 > 0:33:52Sue and Steve did revisit our first property
0:33:52 > 0:33:55and they've had an offer accepted on it,
0:33:55 > 0:33:59so they're getting ready to begin their new life in Dorset together
0:33:59 > 0:34:02and we wish them the very best of luck.
0:34:02 > 0:34:06If you would like to Escape To The Country in England, Scotland, Wales
0:34:06 > 0:34:09or Northern Ireland and need our help, please apply online.