0:00:02 > 0:00:05Welcome to Escape to the Country.
0:00:05 > 0:00:09These astonishing mountains were the training ground for
0:00:09 > 0:00:13the world's first successful ascent of Mount Everest,
0:00:13 > 0:00:16but strangely they are closer to home than you might think.
0:00:16 > 0:00:18So, where are we?
0:00:18 > 0:00:20Well, join me in just a moment and I'll tell you.
0:00:39 > 0:00:43Today's property search reveals something of a generation gap.
0:00:43 > 0:00:46- Can you see your mum in here? - Yeah, it's definitely her.
0:00:46 > 0:00:49That sounds like it's definitely not you.
0:00:49 > 0:00:51Yeah, he doesn't like olde worlde.
0:00:51 > 0:00:54I'm thinking I'll whack my head quite a few times.
0:00:54 > 0:00:59And it looks like we might uncover Mum's dream country home.
0:00:59 > 0:01:02- Lovely!- Yeah?- I knew it would be, I knew it would be.
0:01:02 > 0:01:04It's gorgeous, it's gorgeous.
0:01:06 > 0:01:08Well, today I'm in North Wales
0:01:08 > 0:01:11on the Watkin Path at the base of Mount Snowdon.
0:01:11 > 0:01:14This is one of six routes that leads to the peak,
0:01:14 > 0:01:17the highest, of course, in England and Wales.
0:01:17 > 0:01:20Now, despite being eight times smaller than Mount Everest,
0:01:20 > 0:01:23Snowdon and its challenging environment was
0:01:23 > 0:01:27the perfect training ground for Sir Edmund Hillary and his team.
0:01:27 > 0:01:31They came here in the winter of 1952 to test their equipment
0:01:31 > 0:01:35and hone their skills prior to their conquest of Everest itself
0:01:35 > 0:01:38in May of 1953.
0:01:38 > 0:01:41Now, of course, every year thousands of us make the climb
0:01:41 > 0:01:44to the top of Snowdon, following in Hillary's footsteps,
0:01:44 > 0:01:48but how many of us really appreciate just what it takes to work,
0:01:48 > 0:01:51farm and maintain this stunning environment?
0:01:51 > 0:01:55Well, later on in the programme, I'll be finding out.
0:01:58 > 0:02:00North Wales includes the Llyn Peninsula to the west,
0:02:00 > 0:02:04and the Isle of Anglesey and Colwyn Bay to the north.
0:02:04 > 0:02:09At its heart, Snowdonia crosses the areas of Gwynedd and Conwy
0:02:09 > 0:02:12and is the largest National Park in Wales.
0:02:12 > 0:02:15There are no fewer than nine mountain ranges here
0:02:15 > 0:02:18covering over half the park's surface.
0:02:18 > 0:02:23But rocky peaks are not the only natural delight on offer.
0:02:23 > 0:02:26The area abounds with gorges, valleys and forests,
0:02:26 > 0:02:30and is also home to around 26,000 permanent residents.
0:02:32 > 0:02:34Settlements include Penmaenpool,
0:02:34 > 0:02:36originally built for workers
0:02:36 > 0:02:39serving the country residence of a Lancashire entrepreneur.
0:02:39 > 0:02:43The hamlet's wooden toll bridge dates from 1879
0:02:43 > 0:02:46and can be used to reach a nearby RSPB wildlife reserve.
0:02:48 > 0:02:51On a grander scale, Conway is considered
0:02:51 > 0:02:54the best preserved medieval walled town in Britain.
0:02:54 > 0:02:57Not only have the stone fortifications remained intact,
0:02:57 > 0:03:01they boast an incredible 22 towers.
0:03:01 > 0:03:05The castle itself was built in the 13th century by Edward I,
0:03:05 > 0:03:08following his successful conquest of Wales.
0:03:08 > 0:03:09It overlooks the harbour,
0:03:09 > 0:03:13once described by the visiting Daniel Defoe,
0:03:13 > 0:03:16author of Robinson Crusoe, as noble.
0:03:16 > 0:03:19North Wales' rivers include the Dee.
0:03:19 > 0:03:23This 70-mile long waterway journeys from the mountains of Snowdonia
0:03:23 > 0:03:27via lush valleys passing through Bala Lake at Gwynedd.
0:03:27 > 0:03:29The lake's famously deep, clear waters
0:03:29 > 0:03:31are home to an abundance of fish,
0:03:31 > 0:03:34including perch and brown trout.
0:03:35 > 0:03:38With such a wealth of stunning scenery,
0:03:38 > 0:03:42historic settlements and varied coastline,
0:03:42 > 0:03:44it's no wonder that North Wales is so popular
0:03:44 > 0:03:46with both holiday-makers
0:03:46 > 0:03:49as well as those wanting a more rural lifestyle.
0:03:51 > 0:03:54Now, when it comes to house-hunting here in North Wales,
0:03:54 > 0:03:57property here is remarkably affordable.
0:03:57 > 0:03:59Currently the average price of a detached property
0:03:59 > 0:04:03in this neck of the woods is just under £200,000,
0:04:03 > 0:04:05and that compares very favourably with
0:04:05 > 0:04:10the nearly £290,000 average across England and Wales at the moment.
0:04:10 > 0:04:12Now, of course, there are hot spots.
0:04:12 > 0:04:15Gwynedd, this enormous northern county,
0:04:15 > 0:04:18is dominated by swathes of the Snowdonia National Park
0:04:18 > 0:04:21and, as with most National Parks, well, of course,
0:04:21 > 0:04:23if you're in it, you're going to have to spend
0:04:23 > 0:04:25a little bit more than if you're outside of it.
0:04:25 > 0:04:28So, if you want your budget to go that little bit further,
0:04:28 > 0:04:31my advice is to head west over towards the Llyn Peninsula
0:04:31 > 0:04:33and Wales' west coast,
0:04:33 > 0:04:36or indeed east over towards Conwy and Denbighshire.
0:04:36 > 0:04:37Let's face it, wherever you are up here
0:04:37 > 0:04:39you're never that far from the mountains.
0:04:39 > 0:04:41But what about today's buyers?
0:04:41 > 0:04:45What's attracted them to one of my favourite parts of the UK?
0:04:45 > 0:04:47Well, let's meet them and find out.
0:04:49 > 0:04:51Today's buyer, Maxine, is from Olney,
0:04:51 > 0:04:54within the Buckinghamshire borough of Milton Keynes.
0:04:54 > 0:05:00She's lived in her current home for almost 30 years, raising two boys.
0:05:00 > 0:05:04Youngest son Cyron is now 20 and studying music at Bangor University,
0:05:04 > 0:05:08meaning Maxine feels it's time for her to move on.
0:05:08 > 0:05:11I realised this house was far too big for me
0:05:11 > 0:05:15and it hasn't got a heart any more, you know. It's a place to stay,
0:05:15 > 0:05:20but it's not my ideal home any more.
0:05:20 > 0:05:22The area where I live...is a small town,
0:05:22 > 0:05:25but it's getting bigger and bigger
0:05:25 > 0:05:28and I can just see it getting too big for me,
0:05:28 > 0:05:29and neighbours are too close,
0:05:29 > 0:05:32I'm overlooked by a number of properties.
0:05:32 > 0:05:35As soon as I look out the windows, I'm looking at brick walls,
0:05:35 > 0:05:37other people's brick walls.
0:05:37 > 0:05:41You know, I feel hemmed in and claustrophobic
0:05:41 > 0:05:45and I want to look out into some beautiful countryside
0:05:45 > 0:05:47or see hills in the background and think,
0:05:47 > 0:05:49"I'm just going to put my boots on
0:05:49 > 0:05:51"and go for a nice walk in the countryside."
0:05:51 > 0:05:52And there's one place
0:05:52 > 0:05:55where Maxine feels her boots were made for walking.
0:05:55 > 0:06:00I feel very Welsh. I was born in Newport in South Wales.
0:06:00 > 0:06:05And I only left Wales for work, really, when I was in my early 20s.
0:06:05 > 0:06:06I just feel the draw.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10I suddenly realised how beautiful it was when I was taking my sons,
0:06:10 > 0:06:13Casper and Cyron, up to Bangor University.
0:06:13 > 0:06:17And every time I went up there, I just thought,
0:06:17 > 0:06:20"I don't want to go back home."
0:06:20 > 0:06:23Cyron shares his mum's sentiment for her Welsh homeland
0:06:23 > 0:06:25and is keen to help her make the move.
0:06:26 > 0:06:30I want to sort of bring a slightly younger and fresher perspective.
0:06:30 > 0:06:33Having that collective thought would possibly
0:06:33 > 0:06:36help better with the move than just one person themself.
0:06:36 > 0:06:39It's just getting back to my roots, really.
0:06:39 > 0:06:41I'm an outdoorsy person, even though I don't show it,
0:06:41 > 0:06:43I still like seeing...
0:06:43 > 0:06:47I love my scenery shots. Hill walking, I like that as well.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49And especially... Is it Mount Snowdon?
0:06:49 > 0:06:50I haven't even been up it yet.
0:06:50 > 0:06:53But there are practicalities to consider.
0:06:53 > 0:06:56Maxine will have to give up her cleaning business, so the new home
0:06:56 > 0:07:00will have to provide both a place to live and a source of income.
0:07:00 > 0:07:04When I go to North Wales, the property's got to work for me.
0:07:04 > 0:07:06I'm going to start afresh,
0:07:06 > 0:07:08so the building really does need to have
0:07:08 > 0:07:11either already a holiday let attached to it
0:07:11 > 0:07:15or an annexe that I can change into a holiday let.
0:07:15 > 0:07:18However, it's not just about earning potential.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21There are dreams of what a home in Wales will offer.
0:07:21 > 0:07:25When I started to explore villages up in the hills,
0:07:25 > 0:07:28in the mountains, I thought, "Yeah, I could be up here."
0:07:28 > 0:07:32And there are such beautiful stone properties,
0:07:32 > 0:07:36old Welsh stone cottages that I would love,
0:07:36 > 0:07:42with little windows and little doors and sheep on the doorstep.
0:07:42 > 0:07:45That's where I want to be, really.
0:07:45 > 0:07:49And I really do just want to get a little backpack,
0:07:49 > 0:07:52with my water in and my sandwiches and my camera
0:07:52 > 0:07:56and a woolly hat and a nice raincoat and off I go into the hills,
0:07:56 > 0:07:58and I'll be out for hours and hours.
0:07:58 > 0:08:01And I really look forward to that.
0:08:01 > 0:08:04But most of all it's about starting a new chapter.
0:08:04 > 0:08:09It would definitely change my life completely, utterly completely.
0:08:09 > 0:08:12It's primarily her house. She's going to be living in it.
0:08:12 > 0:08:13I am moving on.
0:08:13 > 0:08:16A new life, completely new life,
0:08:16 > 0:08:19and I think my mind will be freed up and I'll start to get ideas.
0:08:23 > 0:08:26Maxine is open to living anywhere in North Wales,
0:08:26 > 0:08:31although she particularly likes the mountain views of Snowdonia.
0:08:31 > 0:08:34But before we start to look at houses, I'm meeting her and Cyron
0:08:34 > 0:08:38to find out more about the type of property she's hoping to find.
0:08:39 > 0:08:43So, officially, Cyron, Maxine, welcome to Escape to the Country
0:08:43 > 0:08:46and to North Wales. Why now?
0:08:46 > 0:08:50It was from when I was bringing the boys up, Cyron's brother as well,
0:08:50 > 0:08:53up to Bangor back-and-forth the last three years,
0:08:53 > 0:08:55every time I came up to Snowdonia National Park
0:08:55 > 0:08:59I just fell in love with it and I thought, "I've got to come up here."
0:08:59 > 0:09:02As soon as I saw the hills, I just relax and I just think,
0:09:02 > 0:09:03"Yeah, this is where I want to be."
0:09:03 > 0:09:08But you'll have a clearer idea, I hope, of what your mother is after.
0:09:08 > 0:09:10Yeah. I've known her for 20 years,
0:09:10 > 0:09:12so hopefully I should know a few of her tastes now.
0:09:12 > 0:09:15Well, I've got a few of my own, of course.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18In terms of the property that you are dreaming of,
0:09:18 > 0:09:20give us a quick run through as to what it needs to have.
0:09:20 > 0:09:23Definitely not modern. I don't like modern.
0:09:23 > 0:09:26I just want older properties, you know, with history.
0:09:26 > 0:09:28Anything from Victorian backwards.
0:09:28 > 0:09:31You have been very clear on style, but give us the spec -
0:09:31 > 0:09:35how many bedrooms, kitchen, dining room - all that sort of thing.
0:09:35 > 0:09:37Really small, for myself, just a two-bed.
0:09:37 > 0:09:39I don't want anything big to live in.
0:09:39 > 0:09:41I'd just rattle around in it, mainly.
0:09:41 > 0:09:43My boys will be coming and going.
0:09:43 > 0:09:46Cyron is looking, I think, for a studio for himself.
0:09:46 > 0:09:48- What kind of a studio do you want? - Music.
0:09:48 > 0:09:51Oh, right. OK. So, music studio, yeah.
0:09:51 > 0:09:53- Check. Got that.- Yeah.
0:09:53 > 0:09:56Some land, because I'm hoping to have a greenhouse,
0:09:56 > 0:09:58- maybe get into growing my own veg. - Yeah.
0:09:58 > 0:10:01The ideal property would have to work for me.
0:10:01 > 0:10:07I've got to either have a property let or B&B,
0:10:07 > 0:10:10or if it's got outbuildings on, I'll try and use them for something.
0:10:10 > 0:10:14I'll grow things and try and sell them. I'll whittle spoons, anything,
0:10:14 > 0:10:16just to be up here and stay up here.
0:10:16 > 0:10:19I can look at it and adapt it and make it work.
0:10:19 > 0:10:22And how much do you want to spend on this little endeavour?
0:10:22 > 0:10:24OK, well, I think my upper limit,
0:10:24 > 0:10:26if it's already set up with a holiday let
0:10:26 > 0:10:29and I don't have to spend a lot of money on refurbing anything,
0:10:29 > 0:10:32will probably be around £350,000.
0:10:32 > 0:10:37I don't mind living in almost like a shack,
0:10:37 > 0:10:40as long as I'm up here and I can start my business
0:10:40 > 0:10:45and my life up here, then I don't mind living in mess, you know.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47I think we can find you something a little better than a shack.
0:10:47 > 0:10:50- OK.- Come on.- OK. - Let's have a look.
0:10:54 > 0:10:57For a maximum budget of £350,000,
0:10:57 > 0:10:59Maxine is looking for a property
0:10:59 > 0:11:01with some olden day character.
0:11:01 > 0:11:03She needs at least two bedrooms to
0:11:03 > 0:11:05give her room for her sons to visit
0:11:05 > 0:11:07and is keen for the property
0:11:07 > 0:11:09to offer some income potential,
0:11:09 > 0:11:11such as a holiday let,
0:11:11 > 0:11:12as well as having enough land
0:11:12 > 0:11:14to grow fruit and vegetables.
0:11:14 > 0:11:16And she's happy to take on
0:11:16 > 0:11:18some renovation work if necessary.
0:11:20 > 0:11:23We've got an incredible variety of properties to tempt them with
0:11:23 > 0:11:27and at each one I'll be asking them to guess the price
0:11:27 > 0:11:28before I reveal it.
0:11:28 > 0:11:32The last stop on our search will of course be our Mystery House,
0:11:32 > 0:11:36which certainly delivers on Maxine's requirement for historic charm.
0:11:36 > 0:11:39But first, we're off to look at house number one.
0:11:44 > 0:11:48Our North Wales property hunt is kicking off in the small village
0:11:48 > 0:11:51of Dinorwig, just outside the Snowdonia National Park
0:11:51 > 0:11:54and a short drive from the village of Llanberis.
0:11:56 > 0:11:58Llanberis is the gateway to Mount Snowdon,
0:11:58 > 0:12:00in the heart of the National Park.
0:12:00 > 0:12:02The village has a train station
0:12:02 > 0:12:06from where it's possible to ascend the mountain by rail.
0:12:06 > 0:12:09There's a wealth of mountain and lake activities
0:12:09 > 0:12:13as well as plenty of amenities serving both locals and visitors
0:12:13 > 0:12:16who come to enjoy this spectacular scenery.
0:12:17 > 0:12:21The church of St Padarn was named after a French monk
0:12:21 > 0:12:24who settled in Wales, and shares its namesake with Llyn Padarn,
0:12:24 > 0:12:29a glaically formed body of water that is one of the nation's largest natural lakes.
0:12:31 > 0:12:35In nearby Dinorwig, our first house is ideally located,
0:12:35 > 0:12:37sitting high above the lake
0:12:37 > 0:12:40with spectacular views of Mount Snowdon itself.
0:12:43 > 0:12:46Well, this is what I thought we'd start with,
0:12:46 > 0:12:49- and that view.- Wow!
0:12:50 > 0:12:53- Something else, isn't it? - That's a view.
0:12:53 > 0:12:58It's wonderful. It really is wonderful. Location is fabulous.
0:12:58 > 0:13:01It's not too big. It's got a conservatory.
0:13:01 > 0:13:04It's got lots of windows, lots of light.
0:13:04 > 0:13:06I can imagine lots of light going in there.
0:13:06 > 0:13:08Cyron, what do you think of this location?
0:13:08 > 0:13:11- A little bit reserved. - Oh, really, why?- Why?
0:13:11 > 0:13:14It's still next to a road, so people can peer into your garden.
0:13:14 > 0:13:16It is actually a dead end.
0:13:16 > 0:13:19- Oh, OK.- It finishes just over there. - Ah.
0:13:19 > 0:13:22But in terms of you sitting out here with your laptop composing music,
0:13:22 > 0:13:24I mean, look, Elgar had the Malverns, you've got Snowdon.
0:13:24 > 0:13:27Yes, better setting.
0:13:28 > 0:13:31Originally built in the 1800s,
0:13:31 > 0:13:34this scenic detached property comes with the added bonus of
0:13:34 > 0:13:38a separate annexe that has a four-star holiday let rating.
0:13:38 > 0:13:42Mindful of Maxine's need to feel reassured that she can make income
0:13:42 > 0:13:46from her new home, we're going to start our tour in the annexe,
0:13:46 > 0:13:50where an entrance hall leads into the open-plan living space.
0:13:52 > 0:13:54So, come right in.
0:13:54 > 0:13:55And you can get a really good, I think,
0:13:55 > 0:13:58understanding of what is on offer here.
0:13:58 > 0:13:59Ah! That's pretty.
0:13:59 > 0:14:03You've obviously got bed there, kitchenette, shall we say.
0:14:03 > 0:14:06I rather like this sort of booth arrangement.
0:14:06 > 0:14:08They've basically cut an old pew in half.
0:14:08 > 0:14:11- So, putting your business head on... - Yeah.- ..could you market this?
0:14:11 > 0:14:12Oh, this, definitely.
0:14:12 > 0:14:15But I'm not so sure it will give me enough income to live on.
0:14:15 > 0:14:19On a good day, it's probably about £400 a week.
0:14:19 > 0:14:22OK. Ah! That's a bit better.
0:14:22 > 0:14:24I wasn't expecting that.
0:14:24 > 0:14:26Yeah, that makes a difference, then.
0:14:26 > 0:14:29I would like to stay in a place like this because, I mean,
0:14:29 > 0:14:32maybe a single person...got a bed.
0:14:32 > 0:14:34It's pretty much all compact into one space.
0:14:34 > 0:14:36It's pretty much...
0:14:36 > 0:14:39No, you're not having it. It's going to be a holiday let.
0:14:39 > 0:14:41Well, I think we can argue over this one all day long,
0:14:41 > 0:14:44but let's get on with the main property next-door
0:14:44 > 0:14:47cos that I hope is a place that you might share.
0:14:47 > 0:14:50You never know. Just thinking aloud. Come on.
0:14:52 > 0:14:54A short walk takes us back to the main property
0:14:54 > 0:14:57where its porched front door leads straight into
0:14:57 > 0:15:01the warm and welcoming reception, oozing authentic period features.
0:15:03 > 0:15:06That is just the space that I would like to be sitting in
0:15:06 > 0:15:08with my cup of tea every night.
0:15:08 > 0:15:13It's lovely. It's really quaint and cosy. I mean, that's your typical...
0:15:13 > 0:15:14Is it called Inglenook fireplace?
0:15:14 > 0:15:16It is a classic Inglenook, yeah.
0:15:16 > 0:15:20- Can you see your mum in here? - Yeah, it's her. It's definitely her.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23That sounds like it's definitely not you.
0:15:23 > 0:15:25- Yeah, he doesn't like olde worlde. - It's this!
0:15:25 > 0:15:27I'm thinking I'll whack my head quite a few times.
0:15:27 > 0:15:29Now, the kitchen is not enormous,
0:15:29 > 0:15:31- but you didn't want an enormous kitchen/diner, did you?- Nope.
0:15:31 > 0:15:33Have a look at this. See if this would work.
0:15:33 > 0:15:37- You're going to have to watch your head on this one.- Oh, look. - It's even smaller!
0:15:37 > 0:15:39Everybody through without any damage, I hope.
0:15:39 > 0:15:41But this is what you've got.
0:15:41 > 0:15:45Galley arrangement. You've got a bit of a larder through there.
0:15:45 > 0:15:48And then you've got a bit of a kitchen/diner end,
0:15:48 > 0:15:52- dominated again by that lovely range.- It's lovely.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54It's you, again. It's very you.
0:15:54 > 0:15:57Well, that, let's face it, is what we're after here.
0:15:57 > 0:16:00- It's very important.- You are the one living here full-time. I'm passing.
0:16:00 > 0:16:02But this is very snug and cosy.
0:16:02 > 0:16:05Also, of course, you're getting the heat off of the conservatory,
0:16:05 > 0:16:08which we saw when we first got here, which is again giving you
0:16:08 > 0:16:11a wonderful opportunity to enjoy those views whatever the weather.
0:16:11 > 0:16:15- Yeah.- And it could also double up potentially as a dining room.
0:16:15 > 0:16:17I was considering that.
0:16:17 > 0:16:19- OK.- Just need to practise my cooking though.
0:16:19 > 0:16:21I'm sure it's not that bad.
0:16:21 > 0:16:23- You've brought up a fairly big, strapping lad, there.- True, yeah.
0:16:23 > 0:16:25- Haven't poisoned me yet. - No, not yet.
0:16:27 > 0:16:29I think the banter proves that
0:16:29 > 0:16:31Maxine and Cyron are both feeling at home
0:16:31 > 0:16:34and seeing the potential in this country cottage.
0:16:34 > 0:16:38There's also a snug next to the main reception room
0:16:38 > 0:16:42and stairs which lead to the three-bedroom accommodation.
0:16:42 > 0:16:44At the rear of the house,
0:16:44 > 0:16:46there's a large double with two windows,
0:16:46 > 0:16:48as well as a smaller double.
0:16:48 > 0:16:50Then, to the front of the house,
0:16:50 > 0:16:53above the main reception, lies the largest of the bedrooms.
0:16:53 > 0:16:56These are all served by a family bathroom.
0:16:57 > 0:17:02And there's more outside. The annexe has its own garden and parking.
0:17:02 > 0:17:04Whilst in the grounds of the main house,
0:17:04 > 0:17:07a useful workshop provides further options for Maxine
0:17:07 > 0:17:09and Cyron to wrestle with.
0:17:10 > 0:17:11There we go.
0:17:11 > 0:17:14So, I think we agree this is quite an interesting package,
0:17:14 > 0:17:16- but is it affordable?- Mm.
0:17:16 > 0:17:19OK. So, who's going to go first?
0:17:19 > 0:17:23- Let's put Cyron on the spot. - The unlucky one.
0:17:23 > 0:17:25I would say about 280.
0:17:25 > 0:17:28I would have thought, with this view,
0:17:28 > 0:17:30it's going to be at least 300,000.
0:17:30 > 0:17:32Now, this is a turn-up for the books, isn't it?
0:17:32 > 0:17:35- He's nearly right. - No! He's always right.
0:17:35 > 0:17:36Usually gets it right.
0:17:36 > 0:17:38Well, he's not perfectly right.
0:17:38 > 0:17:42To be precise, it's on the market for £275,000.
0:17:42 > 0:17:43Oh, wow! OK.
0:17:43 > 0:17:46Right, then, off you go. Have a wander around.
0:17:46 > 0:17:49- OK.- And I will come and find you a little bit later on.- Right.
0:17:51 > 0:17:55£75,000 below Maxine's top budget,
0:17:55 > 0:17:58this beautifully situated 1800s house
0:17:58 > 0:18:01has both income potential and charm.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04The main house offers original features
0:18:04 > 0:18:06and a conservatory with extensive views,
0:18:06 > 0:18:09as well as one more bedroom than she's asked for.
0:18:09 > 0:18:11Then there's the self-contained annexe
0:18:11 > 0:18:14that could be offered as a holiday let.
0:18:14 > 0:18:16What's more, there's also a useful workshop
0:18:16 > 0:18:19that could possibly provide studio space for Cyron's music
0:18:19 > 0:18:21when he's back from university.
0:18:24 > 0:18:26- Wow.- So, can you see yourself here?
0:18:26 > 0:18:28I can, actually, yeah.
0:18:28 > 0:18:31You know, now I've had a look round, it's got potential, hasn't it?
0:18:31 > 0:18:34And I did think about doing some food. This would be...
0:18:34 > 0:18:37- Quite useful.- It depends on how much you had to charge for it,
0:18:37 > 0:18:40and how much that would sustain you, say, through the winter months
0:18:40 > 0:18:43- if there isn't enough business. - Yeah.
0:18:43 > 0:18:46I do actually like the house. I like the quirky nature of it.
0:18:46 > 0:18:48I like the low ceilings.
0:18:48 > 0:18:51It's got these great massive thick walls,
0:18:51 > 0:18:55and it looks like it's going to stay in this spot for many,
0:18:55 > 0:18:57many years to come.
0:18:57 > 0:18:59The holiday let is ready to be rented out,
0:18:59 > 0:19:02which is really good. And then I thought,
0:19:02 > 0:19:05"Yeah, actually, I could get a decent income from here."
0:19:05 > 0:19:10And feel like I was permanently on holiday, which would be bliss.
0:19:10 > 0:19:13Having that view is something to just get up and think,
0:19:13 > 0:19:15"Oh, I'm on holiday."
0:19:15 > 0:19:18And you could do that every day for the rest of your life.
0:19:18 > 0:19:20The house itself... Good for my mum.
0:19:20 > 0:19:23Somewhat good for me. It's good for me and my brother to have
0:19:23 > 0:19:27separate rooms, and I saw an internet connection box upstairs,
0:19:27 > 0:19:29so that should keep me happy.
0:19:29 > 0:19:32The more I looked at it, it's growing on me, and I think,
0:19:32 > 0:19:35"Yeah, I could really feel at home here."
0:19:35 > 0:19:37- Our time is up, I'm afraid.- OK.
0:19:37 > 0:19:39- Keep this one in mind, though... - I will.
0:19:39 > 0:19:42..because I think this is one you should not forget in a hurry.
0:19:42 > 0:19:44It's a really good option. Come on, then. Let's go.
0:19:44 > 0:19:47After you, sir. CYRON CHUCKLES
0:19:47 > 0:19:50- Looks like he needs feeding. - He does.
0:19:55 > 0:19:58Before the Industrial Revolution of the 18th century,
0:19:58 > 0:20:01the Welsh economy was predominately agricultural,
0:20:01 > 0:20:03and making a living from the land
0:20:03 > 0:20:07is still a central part of many North Wales communities.
0:20:07 > 0:20:12However, over 80% of Welsh farmland is designated less favoured due to
0:20:12 > 0:20:16natural features of the climate and landscape, so can offer a challenge.
0:20:16 > 0:20:21As Maxine is keen to make a success of growing her own food here,
0:20:21 > 0:20:25we've arranged for her to meet prized vegetable producer Medwyn Williams.
0:20:25 > 0:20:28He's president of the National Vegetable Society
0:20:28 > 0:20:31and a multiple gold medallist at Chelsea, no less.
0:20:31 > 0:20:33What's more, he's willing to share
0:20:33 > 0:20:36some of his tried and tested tips and tricks.
0:20:36 > 0:20:39Welcome to you here on my nursery on Anglesey.
0:20:39 > 0:20:42How did you get into producing your own produce?
0:20:42 > 0:20:45I was just about seven or eight years old.
0:20:45 > 0:20:47My father was a farm worker.
0:20:47 > 0:20:49He turned over a bit of soil in his garden,
0:20:49 > 0:20:52about a square yard, and he gave me three packets of seeds
0:20:52 > 0:20:55and they were radish, mustard and cress.
0:20:55 > 0:20:57And I invited my friend, Gareth, over.
0:20:57 > 0:20:59We had a big sandwich of radish,
0:20:59 > 0:21:02mustard and cress with lots of salad cream on it.
0:21:02 > 0:21:05But more than that, my sister and I used to fight passionately
0:21:05 > 0:21:08about who went to the flower shows with Dad.
0:21:08 > 0:21:12And having a look at this big collection of vegetables
0:21:12 > 0:21:16with leeks up in the air and celery on the back boards.
0:21:16 > 0:21:18And from then on, I think I was hooked.
0:21:18 > 0:21:20I just love growing vegetables.
0:21:20 > 0:21:25When I move to Wales, I'm interested in starting my own veg plot
0:21:25 > 0:21:26and I wondered what to start with.
0:21:26 > 0:21:28The best thing to do is
0:21:28 > 0:21:31to have a good think what vegetables you like to eat.
0:21:31 > 0:21:33Knowing the soil is very important.
0:21:33 > 0:21:37Dad's saying was, "There's no such thing as poor soil.
0:21:37 > 0:21:40"You get out of it what you put into it." And that's very true.
0:21:40 > 0:21:44- Come along with me to the greenhouse.- Right.
0:21:44 > 0:21:48Medwyn grows 45 different types of vegetables here in Anglesey,
0:21:48 > 0:21:52many of which you're not likely to find at your local greengrocer.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57Well, we've gathered a few vegetables together for you now.
0:21:59 > 0:22:01This is not a rugby ball, much as I'd like it to be,
0:22:01 > 0:22:04- but it is actually a big onion. - No! No way!
0:22:04 > 0:22:07And that weighs about 5, 6lbs.
0:22:07 > 0:22:10And here we have this purpley carrot,
0:22:10 > 0:22:12which is not the same colour right through.
0:22:14 > 0:22:16The beautiful colours,
0:22:16 > 0:22:20it's orange outside and yellow in the centre.
0:22:20 > 0:22:22And I tell you what, it's the nicest eating carrot I've had.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25Some sweetcorn, freshly picked this morning.
0:22:26 > 0:22:29- You can eat that. Do you want a bit of that?- Yeah.- Raw.
0:22:29 > 0:22:30- OK.- Try that.
0:22:37 > 0:22:39That's perfect.
0:22:39 > 0:22:42One thing's caught my eye, is those things over there.
0:22:42 > 0:22:44- What do you mean? The leeks?- Yes.
0:22:44 > 0:22:47- Well, let's go have a look at it, shall we?- Not ordinary ones either.
0:22:47 > 0:22:51Legend has it that Welsh soldiers once put leeks in their helmets
0:22:51 > 0:22:54to identify themselves in battle,
0:22:54 > 0:22:56whilst local superstition holds
0:22:56 > 0:22:59that if a girl puts a leek under her pillow,
0:22:59 > 0:23:01she'll dream about her future husband.
0:23:01 > 0:23:05True or not, Medwyn's leeks are certainly of mythical proportions.
0:23:08 > 0:23:12Well, these are the leeks. Quite proud of these, actually.
0:23:12 > 0:23:14They're not your regular size.
0:23:14 > 0:23:16To create his supersize specimens,
0:23:16 > 0:23:20Medwyn grows not from seed but from something called a bulbil,
0:23:20 > 0:23:23produced by removing the top of a leek,
0:23:23 > 0:23:26stripping the remaining barrel and planting it.
0:23:26 > 0:23:30When the plant forms a flower head in the spring, it's cut back.
0:23:30 > 0:23:34All we do then is we remove the stalk.
0:23:34 > 0:23:36Now that's what we call a bulbil.
0:23:38 > 0:23:42Then all you do, you push it into the compost
0:23:42 > 0:23:45and before you know it, in a matter of a couple of weeks,
0:23:45 > 0:23:48it'll all be straightened up and it'll grow on as a plant.
0:23:49 > 0:23:52Medwyn's method gains at least seven-to-eight weeks' growth
0:23:52 > 0:23:56and ensures each batch of leeks inherits the qualities of the last.
0:23:57 > 0:23:59Now, these have all come from one head.
0:23:59 > 0:24:01So, it's very simple, really.
0:24:01 > 0:24:02Just grab one.
0:24:02 > 0:24:05Cos if you do a good job, we know you're in danger of being
0:24:05 > 0:24:07employed here when you live around here, when you buy a house.
0:24:07 > 0:24:09I wouldn't mind that at all.
0:24:09 > 0:24:11- Are you doing well?- I am.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14Well, you've only got another 1,000 or so to do, so...
0:24:14 > 0:24:17- Oh, no!- ..how about staying on and finishing that?
0:24:17 > 0:24:20- Good luck with your house-hunting. Come here any time you like.- I will.
0:24:20 > 0:24:21I'll be back for advice.
0:24:21 > 0:24:24- Definitely back for seeds.- If you've got any problems, let me know.
0:24:24 > 0:24:29- Thank you.- OK, keep going, then. Don't stop.- Oh!
0:24:29 > 0:24:32Let's hope today's planting yields another bumper crop,
0:24:32 > 0:24:33as we turn our attention back to
0:24:33 > 0:24:38finding Maxine somewhere to lay down her own roots here in North Wales.
0:24:43 > 0:24:47Our property search is taking us to the small village of Rhosgadfan,
0:24:47 > 0:24:51five miles south of the town of Caernarfon.
0:24:51 > 0:24:53A royal town and port,
0:24:53 > 0:24:56Caernarfon has been settled since prehistoric times.
0:24:56 > 0:24:59Despite his name and persistent attempts,
0:24:59 > 0:25:02William the Conqueror never did conquer Wales.
0:25:02 > 0:25:06Indeed, it was only in the 13th century that the invading English
0:25:06 > 0:25:08finally took hold of the region,
0:25:08 > 0:25:12promptly erecting the highly fortified castle at Caernarfon
0:25:12 > 0:25:15to act as an administrative centre and to maintain rule.
0:25:16 > 0:25:20These days, the streets are more likely to be invaded by tourists,
0:25:20 > 0:25:24where the draw of history and scenic beauty has seen a plethora
0:25:24 > 0:25:28of businesses pop up to cater to the influx of visitors.
0:25:28 > 0:25:31The main square is surrounded by Georgian and Edwardian buildings.
0:25:32 > 0:25:36And the 19th century philanthropic pioneer of education,
0:25:36 > 0:25:39Sir Hugh Owen, is remembered in a statue here.
0:25:40 > 0:25:44Close by, a Gothic-influenced Presbyterian church was built
0:25:44 > 0:25:46in 1883.
0:25:47 > 0:25:51And five miles away in the wonderful Welsh countryside of Rhosgadfan
0:25:51 > 0:25:53is the next cottage I want to present them.
0:25:55 > 0:25:57Well, Maxine, look at that.
0:25:57 > 0:25:59That is the Llyn Peninsula,
0:25:59 > 0:26:03this mountainous finger of land that points out into the Irish Sea,
0:26:03 > 0:26:07- which is looking particularly calm today, I must say.- It's beautiful.
0:26:07 > 0:26:12- But that's what I want you to really take in.- Oh, wow!
0:26:12 > 0:26:16One of the first things I was going to do when I got my little cottage
0:26:16 > 0:26:19was to paint the door and the window frames red.
0:26:19 > 0:26:22- Well, look, we've done it for you. - Yeah, it's already done.
0:26:22 > 0:26:24And what do you think, Cyron?
0:26:24 > 0:26:27- I have reservations.- No! No!
0:26:27 > 0:26:29I'm really excited about this one.
0:26:29 > 0:26:32- It's an idyllic spot, this. - Yes, it is nice though.
0:26:32 > 0:26:34Come on. Let's see what you think.
0:26:36 > 0:26:39Well, that's certainly a very positive first impression
0:26:39 > 0:26:41for this Welsh cottage,
0:26:41 > 0:26:42from Maxine at least.
0:26:42 > 0:26:45Once used as a quarryman's home and smallholding,
0:26:45 > 0:26:49the Grade II listed property was built around 1800.
0:26:49 > 0:26:52But we're not taking that eye-catching red front door,
0:26:52 > 0:26:55we're starting our tour in the conservatory,
0:26:55 > 0:26:58which was added by the current owners around eight years ago.
0:26:59 > 0:27:01Well, let's start with this
0:27:01 > 0:27:04cos I think this is a really, really interesting space,
0:27:04 > 0:27:08and it's made such a difference to the footprint of this property.
0:27:08 > 0:27:10- The flooring's nice, actually. - Beautiful.
0:27:10 > 0:27:12And the blinds are even better.
0:27:12 > 0:27:15Ooh, look, good news. Cyron's liking it already.
0:27:15 > 0:27:18Yay! You'll be sat in here with your computer, won't you?
0:27:18 > 0:27:21Actually, yeah, this seems right.
0:27:21 > 0:27:24You can use this, of course, all year round, but I think for those
0:27:24 > 0:27:27really cosy wintry evenings, you're going to love the living room.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29It's through here.
0:27:31 > 0:27:32There. How about this?
0:27:32 > 0:27:36Lovely! I knew it would be, I knew it would be.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38It's gorgeous, it's gorgeous.
0:27:38 > 0:27:42And it's a really good shape to use. Ah, I love it!
0:27:42 > 0:27:44I know it's going to sound funny,
0:27:44 > 0:27:47but I was going to get a carpet like this to go with my red door,
0:27:47 > 0:27:50you know, cos I know the colour fits in places like this.
0:27:50 > 0:27:52You know, even to the Welsh harp.
0:27:52 > 0:27:54I mean, years ago, Cyron, what did I say?
0:27:54 > 0:27:56Yes, you wanted to learn the harp.
0:27:56 > 0:27:59- It's a sign!- It's calling you!
0:27:59 > 0:28:00I know, I know!
0:28:00 > 0:28:02Come and have a look at the kitchen.
0:28:02 > 0:28:04- You might need to duck here, Cyron. - Yeah, duck.- Oh, gosh!
0:28:04 > 0:28:09Do watch your head, but it's well worth it cos this is what you get.
0:28:09 > 0:28:11It just gets better and better.
0:28:11 > 0:28:14- Got to agree with that, actually. - You like that?
0:28:14 > 0:28:16- Cos it's quite olde worlde. - Yeah, I like this.
0:28:16 > 0:28:18It feels modern but still rustic.
0:28:18 > 0:28:21- It's got more head height. - Yeah.
0:28:21 > 0:28:24It's just wonderful. I wouldn't change anything.
0:28:24 > 0:28:27It seems this home is almost made for Maxine,
0:28:27 > 0:28:29who not only has warmed to the space,
0:28:29 > 0:28:32but also the style of what she's seen so far.
0:28:33 > 0:28:37There are three bedrooms all reached via the kitchen.
0:28:37 > 0:28:40The first, a good size double, is down a hallway,
0:28:40 > 0:28:42next to which sits the family bathroom
0:28:42 > 0:28:44featuring a roll top bath and shower.
0:28:46 > 0:28:48Directly off the kitchen is a very small bedroom
0:28:48 > 0:28:52that the current owners use for their chocolate making business.
0:28:52 > 0:28:56And up a couple of steps is the largest of the three rooms,
0:28:56 > 0:28:58which Maxine could use for herself.
0:29:00 > 0:29:03Now, you could have this as a guest room,
0:29:03 > 0:29:05but this is what the current owners use as their room.
0:29:05 > 0:29:08- I'd keep it as my bedroom. I love that window.- Hm.
0:29:08 > 0:29:10- And the beams.- It's a nice feature.
0:29:10 > 0:29:13And the dark furniture. It's just me.
0:29:13 > 0:29:16Yeah, I can see myself being here but it'll be like
0:29:16 > 0:29:19- being on a permanent holiday, for me.- I think this place
0:29:19 > 0:29:23- has won the over, hasn't it?- Yes. It feels like a holiday already,
0:29:23 > 0:29:26- just being here.- It's just a lovely feel to it.- It just feels...
0:29:26 > 0:29:30modern to my taste, this works for me.
0:29:30 > 0:29:32The key thing, of course, is affording it.
0:29:32 > 0:29:36- OK.- Let's have a discussion outside as to what the future may hold.
0:29:38 > 0:29:40Maxine's heart already seems won over
0:29:40 > 0:29:43by this cosy former quarryman's cottage.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46And, outside, there's even more to captivate her.
0:29:47 > 0:29:50The sizeable 1.8 acres of land includes
0:29:50 > 0:29:52a terrace for al fresco dining.
0:29:52 > 0:29:55A games room offers possible business options,
0:29:55 > 0:29:58plus there's a static caravan with power and plumbing
0:29:58 > 0:30:01that could be rented to bring in income.
0:30:01 > 0:30:05And it all benefits from the incredible outlook.
0:30:05 > 0:30:08- Look at that.- Oh, wow!
0:30:08 > 0:30:12So, how far do you think is your £350,000 going to go
0:30:12 > 0:30:15with this particular property, Maxine?
0:30:15 > 0:30:19Not far. It's just too ideal.
0:30:19 > 0:30:21It's got to be top of my budget,
0:30:21 > 0:30:24- 350 at least, if not more.- Cy?
0:30:24 > 0:30:27- I'm going to say about 320.- 320.
0:30:27 > 0:30:30- I mean, 350 is affordable, technically.- Yeah.
0:30:30 > 0:30:33320 is even more affordable.
0:30:34 > 0:30:38- 295,000, however, makes it really affordable.- Wow!
0:30:38 > 0:30:39Oh, that's really good.
0:30:39 > 0:30:43- What do you think about that, mate? - Awestruck.
0:30:43 > 0:30:45- OK.- I did not expect it whatsoever.
0:30:45 > 0:30:47- It really felt like it was too good to be true.- With all this land!
0:30:47 > 0:30:50- You've got a lot to think about. - Yeah.- Go on, off you go.
0:30:50 > 0:30:51Have a wander around
0:30:51 > 0:30:54and I will catch up with you a little bit later.
0:30:54 > 0:30:57Well, they think it's too good to be true.
0:30:57 > 0:30:59Often when that is the case,
0:30:59 > 0:31:02there is something of a catch involved, but not here.
0:31:02 > 0:31:04This is good, and it is true and, who knows,
0:31:04 > 0:31:06it might just be for them.
0:31:08 > 0:31:12£55,000 shy of their top budget,
0:31:12 > 0:31:15I think this Grade II listed former quarryman's cottage
0:31:15 > 0:31:18might well be Maxine's dream country home.
0:31:18 > 0:31:22The single-storey accommodation has enough bedrooms for Cyron
0:31:22 > 0:31:24and his brother to visit.
0:31:24 > 0:31:26Then, outside, there's a games room
0:31:26 > 0:31:29plus a static caravan that could offer income opportunities.
0:31:29 > 0:31:31And, what's more, there's a generous amount of land
0:31:31 > 0:31:36and the plot boasts incredible views of the mountains and sea.
0:31:38 > 0:31:40I really, really like this house.
0:31:40 > 0:31:45The style, spookily, is my style.
0:31:45 > 0:31:49I love the colour, I love the layout, I even love their furniture.
0:31:49 > 0:31:53It's got the caravan, and I know I can rent that out because people
0:31:53 > 0:31:57will like to come up here, and stay in that caravan just for the view.
0:31:57 > 0:31:59There's lots of opportunities here.
0:31:59 > 0:32:03I can see me making a good business here.
0:32:03 > 0:32:05My mum would definitely have a beautiful life here,
0:32:05 > 0:32:07being able to slow down, unwind, relax,
0:32:07 > 0:32:09all the words you can think of!
0:32:09 > 0:32:12It's definitely something idyllic for her, and she loves the red door.
0:32:12 > 0:32:15It's a lovely property.
0:32:15 > 0:32:17I don't think you can show me anything better than this one,
0:32:17 > 0:32:18I'd be very surprised.
0:32:18 > 0:32:21I think on the way out we need to kick over the "for sale" sign
0:32:21 > 0:32:22so nobody else sees it.
0:32:23 > 0:32:26I want to have first dibs on this house. It's mine.
0:32:27 > 0:32:30You know, this place really is exceptional.
0:32:30 > 0:32:33- I can't believe the weather. - It's gorgeous.
0:32:33 > 0:32:36- And I can't believe we found you such a bargain.- It's just perfect.
0:32:36 > 0:32:38The whole lot is just perfect.
0:32:38 > 0:32:41What do you think of this house-hunting lark, then?
0:32:41 > 0:32:44Well, this one's definitely a check in my book.
0:32:44 > 0:32:48Yay! Good. Let's write a cheque. Come on.
0:32:58 > 0:33:01Maxine from the Buckinghamshire borough of Milton Keynes
0:33:01 > 0:33:06is with son Cyron, hoping to find her perfect home in North Wales.
0:33:06 > 0:33:08We've already shown them some great property
0:33:08 > 0:33:12that could give her the lifestyle and income she needs.
0:33:12 > 0:33:14But there's still more to see.
0:33:14 > 0:33:17And the Mystery House could well offer
0:33:17 > 0:33:19all the historic character she's after.
0:33:19 > 0:33:22I've been itching to show this to you all week.
0:33:22 > 0:33:24- Wow!- It is a wow, isn't it?
0:33:24 > 0:33:27- Ooh!- Pretty impressive focal point.
0:33:27 > 0:33:30And I'm finding out how some old-fashioned shepherding
0:33:30 > 0:33:34is being used to help maintain the dramatic slopes of Mount Snowdon.
0:33:34 > 0:33:38- There's a great degree of cunning involved in this, isn't there?- Yes.
0:33:41 > 0:33:44Well, as you can see, we have yet another beautiful day
0:33:44 > 0:33:48to finish off our final day of house-hunting here in North Wales.
0:33:48 > 0:33:51And, at this stage in the show, halfway through,
0:33:51 > 0:33:54I think it is a case of so far so good.
0:33:54 > 0:33:56Overall, I'm pretty happy,
0:33:56 > 0:33:59and I'm pretty sure that Cyron and Maxine are, too.
0:33:59 > 0:34:01So, what of today?
0:34:01 > 0:34:04We have two more properties to come, including our Mystery House,
0:34:04 > 0:34:08which may test Maxine's earlier assertion that she was up for
0:34:08 > 0:34:12a bit of a project. Before we get to that, we have property three to see.
0:34:12 > 0:34:15And I'm going to give you a little bit of a clue
0:34:15 > 0:34:16as to where we're heading.
0:34:16 > 0:34:20It's over there, across the water, on the island of Anglesey.
0:34:20 > 0:34:23It is a property which I'm convinced offers them everything
0:34:23 > 0:34:25they're after, but will it be too much?
0:34:25 > 0:34:27We'll just have to wait and see.
0:34:27 > 0:34:29So I'll see you on the other side.
0:34:33 > 0:34:36Our house-hunt is heading across the Menai Straight to the Isle of
0:34:36 > 0:34:39Anglesey, known as Ynys Mon in Welsh.
0:34:40 > 0:34:44Our property is located in the tiny hamlet of Llanfair-yng-Nghornwy
0:34:44 > 0:34:47a five-mile drive from the large village of Cemaes.
0:34:48 > 0:34:50The most northerly village in Wales,
0:34:50 > 0:34:55the fishing port of Cemaes is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
0:34:55 > 0:35:00that also attracts tourists to its sandy, gently-shelving bay.
0:35:00 > 0:35:03There's a good range of facilities here, including a shop,
0:35:03 > 0:35:05with post office, a pharmacy,
0:35:05 > 0:35:07and a selection of places to eat and drink.
0:35:08 > 0:35:11We're ten minutes away in Llanfair-yng-Nghornwy
0:35:11 > 0:35:14where the property we're here to see is located
0:35:14 > 0:35:17on the edge of its own sizeable country estate.
0:35:18 > 0:35:21That is what we are proposing to show you.
0:35:21 > 0:35:26To the left, we've got a very spacious two-bed cottage,
0:35:26 > 0:35:31- and, to the right, a very spacious one-bedroom holiday let.- Ah!
0:35:31 > 0:35:35- With this one, we've got you five acres.- No!- Yep.
0:35:35 > 0:35:37So, what do you think?
0:35:37 > 0:35:41- I'm surprised.- I'm still reserved. I haven't seen anything yet.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44Do we start with the business end of things, through that door,
0:35:44 > 0:35:48on the holiday let, or do we start with the house?
0:35:48 > 0:35:49- The house.- Yeah?
0:35:49 > 0:35:51- See that first.- Come on, then.
0:35:53 > 0:35:56Originally a smallholding and smithy dating
0:35:56 > 0:35:57from the early 19th century,
0:35:57 > 0:36:00we're entering through the generous glass porch,
0:36:00 > 0:36:04added by the current owners, who've also extended the property
0:36:04 > 0:36:08to create a large, L-shaped kitchen and living room.
0:36:08 > 0:36:11So, you come through that little, sort of vestibule, as it were,
0:36:11 > 0:36:12into the kitchen.
0:36:12 > 0:36:17- Something of a, kind of, kitchen/living, this one.- Yeah.
0:36:17 > 0:36:18First impressions,
0:36:18 > 0:36:23it's a very practical house but the style is not to me. It's too...
0:36:25 > 0:36:27..white and beige, really.
0:36:27 > 0:36:29But nothing you couldn't address.
0:36:29 > 0:36:31I could change that, you're right, yes, of course.
0:36:31 > 0:36:33Cyron, what do you think?
0:36:33 > 0:36:35I like the kitchen but this area just feels like it's tagged on.
0:36:35 > 0:36:38- It doesn't feel like it merges right.- I think it's just the decor.
0:36:38 > 0:36:41- The decor's cold, it's not homely, is it?- No.
0:36:42 > 0:36:46Clearly, the flow of this recently renovated 19th century home
0:36:46 > 0:36:49isn't yet grabbing Maxine and Cyron.
0:36:49 > 0:36:52Completing the ground-floor of the main house is
0:36:52 > 0:36:54a good-sized dining room.
0:36:54 > 0:36:57A door here leads us through into the neighbouring one-bedroom annexe,
0:36:57 > 0:37:00which is where the blacksmith would once have worked.
0:37:01 > 0:37:05So, let's hope Maxine and Cyron have a more positive reaction to
0:37:05 > 0:37:08this potential source of vital income.
0:37:09 > 0:37:12As you can see, nice, sort of, kitchen area here.
0:37:12 > 0:37:15You've got a downstairs shower room, etc, in there.
0:37:15 > 0:37:19And they've got their own front door, that's the really good thing.
0:37:19 > 0:37:23- And door out to its own little patio area.- OK. It's very smart.
0:37:23 > 0:37:26- I like this part. It's really nice. - Yeah, I like it.
0:37:26 > 0:37:29This will rent out really easily.
0:37:29 > 0:37:33- I would easily stay in a place like this.- It's very good.
0:37:33 > 0:37:35You know, it's the kind of place I'd like to be,
0:37:35 > 0:37:37it's nice and pristine, it's got everything that you need.
0:37:37 > 0:37:41You've got a lovely, secluded garden there as well to use.
0:37:41 > 0:37:45I'd feel secure that I know I can rent this out all year.
0:37:45 > 0:37:47Right, then, let's continue back through to the main house
0:37:47 > 0:37:49and see what else you get.
0:37:50 > 0:37:52Well, thankfully,
0:37:52 > 0:37:55a very positive response to the business end of this property.
0:37:55 > 0:38:00Next to the annexe is a garage, and it also has an additional workshop,
0:38:00 > 0:38:03which could potentially be converted to increase the rental yield.
0:38:03 > 0:38:05Back in the main house,
0:38:05 > 0:38:08stairs lead up to two generous double bedrooms.
0:38:08 > 0:38:10The first, above the dining room,
0:38:10 > 0:38:13overlooks the front and back of the house.
0:38:13 > 0:38:17A modern family bathroom offers bath and shower, and, then,
0:38:17 > 0:38:20over the kitchen/living room is the second double bedroom with
0:38:20 > 0:38:22skylight windows.
0:38:22 > 0:38:25This, we think, with a bit of colour would be for you.
0:38:25 > 0:38:31- Maybe not your colour.- Yeah, not mine, either.- It is very lilac.
0:38:31 > 0:38:34- Very lilac.- But it's easily changed. - Yeah, of course it is.
0:38:34 > 0:38:37It's got a lot of potential, get all my furniture in here, anyway.
0:38:37 > 0:38:39There's some potential here.
0:38:39 > 0:38:42It's not as olde worlde as I was...wanting.
0:38:42 > 0:38:45Maybe it's a bit too new for your tastes.
0:38:45 > 0:38:48I'm still stuck on the olde worlde, more rustic,
0:38:48 > 0:38:53and I fell in love with the house that we looked at yesterday,
0:38:53 > 0:38:59but my sensible head says this one is possibly more practical.
0:38:59 > 0:39:02There's big potential outside, isn't there? You know.
0:39:02 > 0:39:04- Let's have a look at that, come on.- OK.
0:39:06 > 0:39:10It may not be tugging at the heartstrings but the low-maintenance
0:39:10 > 0:39:14finish and income opportunity of this well-presented property
0:39:14 > 0:39:16are starting to add up for Maxine.
0:39:16 > 0:39:18And, outside in the five acre grounds,
0:39:18 > 0:39:20there's even more potential.
0:39:20 > 0:39:24Three paddocks are currently rented out to a local sheep farmer
0:39:24 > 0:39:28but Maxine could increase income by turning them over to camping.
0:39:29 > 0:39:33A detached outbuilding could perhaps becoming a music studio
0:39:33 > 0:39:35or further holiday let.
0:39:35 > 0:39:39And then there are the expansive and beautifully landscaped gardens.
0:39:39 > 0:39:42But I wonder whether this is actually more
0:39:42 > 0:39:44than Maxine had in mind.
0:39:44 > 0:39:49Weirdly, it's one of those cases where it's too neat and tidy.
0:39:49 > 0:39:52I feel like I would move in and just be maintaining what they'd
0:39:52 > 0:39:56already done rather than... relaxing and enjoying it.
0:39:56 > 0:39:58It's a good business place.
0:40:00 > 0:40:03But I think it's time to follow my heart and not my head.
0:40:03 > 0:40:06Well, let's see if the numbers will have an influence over this
0:40:06 > 0:40:09- wrangle between your heart and head. - OK.
0:40:09 > 0:40:11How much do you think this one is on the market for?
0:40:11 > 0:40:15Let's cut straight to the chase, I think 3...30.
0:40:15 > 0:40:18I think it's top of my budget. I'd say 350.
0:40:18 > 0:40:21Your instincts are right.
0:40:21 > 0:40:22Good.
0:40:22 > 0:40:27- You are 50 quid short of 350. 349,950.- Yeah, yeah.
0:40:27 > 0:40:30I'd be insulting them if I'd said any less.
0:40:30 > 0:40:32Why don't you go for a wander up there, through that gate,
0:40:32 > 0:40:34get an overview, see what you get,
0:40:34 > 0:40:38- because I wouldn't write this one off just yet, if I were you.- Yeah.
0:40:40 > 0:40:41Right on budget,
0:40:41 > 0:40:45this renovated 19th century former smithy combines the living space
0:40:45 > 0:40:49Maxine has asked for with the business potential she needs.
0:40:49 > 0:40:51The main cottage has two bedrooms,
0:40:51 > 0:40:55and an attached annexe provides a one-bedroom holiday rental.
0:40:55 > 0:40:58The extensive grounds could offer camping,
0:40:58 > 0:41:01plus there is an additional outbuilding.
0:41:01 > 0:41:05And, being so close to both coast and countryside means it's ideal
0:41:05 > 0:41:06for visiting tourists.
0:41:06 > 0:41:09Where's my view? Let's find a view.
0:41:09 > 0:41:13If I was to put glampers in here...
0:41:13 > 0:41:16you know, they'd want to have a good view as well, wouldn't they?
0:41:16 > 0:41:19So, what can we see? We've got a sea view. OK.
0:41:19 > 0:41:22It's not exactly Snowdonia, is it?
0:41:22 > 0:41:25For business use, it's perfect.
0:41:25 > 0:41:30The holiday let is ready, you know, as soon as I move in,
0:41:30 > 0:41:33I can advertise it and I'm sure I can get people in there to use it.
0:41:33 > 0:41:36I was looking at the other outbuilding to make
0:41:36 > 0:41:40a small holiday let, so there'd be two.
0:41:40 > 0:41:44And then the other potential is using the fields for campers.
0:41:44 > 0:41:48It is a lovely house, and it has this business potential, but,
0:41:48 > 0:41:51this time in my life, I want to listen to my heart, not my head.
0:41:51 > 0:41:53It's something that will work better for someone else.
0:41:53 > 0:41:55It's not really for my mum.
0:41:55 > 0:41:56How are we doing?
0:41:56 > 0:41:59- Finding positives.- You have had a good walk, haven't you?- Yeah.
0:41:59 > 0:42:00Wow, look at that!
0:42:00 > 0:42:03- But has it sold it to you?- No.
0:42:03 > 0:42:07There's just something missing, isn't there? I don't feel it here.
0:42:07 > 0:42:09In that case, that's all I need to know.
0:42:09 > 0:42:12- However, we have one more to show you.- OK.
0:42:12 > 0:42:15- Mystery House is almost next door. - Oh, right.
0:42:24 > 0:42:27It may be intensely beautiful to look at,
0:42:27 > 0:42:31but much of Snowdonia is also working farmland,
0:42:31 > 0:42:35the often harsh terrain being particularly suited to sheep.
0:42:35 > 0:42:38Whilst the image of herds on the hills maybe a picturesque one,
0:42:38 > 0:42:42livestock can damage this environment.
0:42:42 > 0:42:45Arwyn Owen manages a 4,500 acre sheep farm
0:42:45 > 0:42:47within the National Park.
0:42:47 > 0:42:50I've come to meet him to find out how he's combining
0:42:50 > 0:42:52the need to graze his flock
0:42:52 > 0:42:54with a new and exciting conservation project.
0:42:56 > 0:43:00What a place to work - the National Park in Snowdonia.
0:43:00 > 0:43:03I mean, this is many people's ideal escape,
0:43:03 > 0:43:06particularly for a holiday or a walk.
0:43:06 > 0:43:09But as well as managing your flock, you're also managing the landscape
0:43:09 > 0:43:12and that's encouraged a new initiative.
0:43:12 > 0:43:17One thing we do here is we monitor the impact of how the animals graze.
0:43:17 > 0:43:18We have an ecologist who goes out
0:43:18 > 0:43:21and actually looks what the impact has been on the plants.
0:43:21 > 0:43:25And what we were finding was the animals were still grazing areas
0:43:25 > 0:43:28that we didn't want them to graze too heavily,
0:43:28 > 0:43:30and then there were other parts of this valley,
0:43:30 > 0:43:33specifically the valley floor, that weren't being grazed heavily enough.
0:43:33 > 0:43:36The problem is something known as hefting.
0:43:36 > 0:43:38Left to their own devices,
0:43:38 > 0:43:41sheep develop a preference for grazing certain areas,
0:43:41 > 0:43:45which they pass down and reinforce over generations.
0:43:45 > 0:43:48In order to break this hefting habit
0:43:48 > 0:43:50and establish new sustainable patterns,
0:43:50 > 0:43:54Arwyn has returned to the old method of a man and his dogs.
0:43:55 > 0:43:57Previously, the sheep did their own thing,
0:43:57 > 0:43:59now there's someone here, a shepherd here,
0:43:59 > 0:44:02and he's moving sheep from areas which are most sensitive
0:44:02 > 0:44:05to those areas that need more grazing.
0:44:05 > 0:44:08It's a joy to watch a good shepherd working dogs
0:44:08 > 0:44:11and how they understand how the sheep will move,
0:44:11 > 0:44:13how the dogs work them.
0:44:15 > 0:44:17And it's a joy I'm going to share today
0:44:17 > 0:44:20as Arwyn is taking me to see Bryn Griffiths,
0:44:20 > 0:44:23who's been shepherding since he was ten years old,
0:44:23 > 0:44:26with his three Border Collies - Meg, Non and Pero.
0:44:28 > 0:44:31- Hello, Bryn.- Hiya. - Bryn's been with us two years now,
0:44:31 > 0:44:34so he knows these mountains pretty well. You've walked, I guess,
0:44:34 > 0:44:37- pretty much every inch of them by now, Bryn.- Yeah.
0:44:37 > 0:44:42It's a big job, Bryn, trying to keep an eye on hundreds of sheep
0:44:42 > 0:44:46in a landscape which gives them plenty of places to hide away in,
0:44:46 > 0:44:49- I'm sure.- Yeah. It's quite the task.
0:44:49 > 0:44:53I took about a good two months to know the pattern of the sheep,
0:44:53 > 0:44:55the way they naturally move.
0:44:55 > 0:44:57I'm starting to know which ones are where
0:44:57 > 0:45:00and how to get them from there now, yeah.
0:45:00 > 0:45:02I mean, there is a psychological element to this,
0:45:02 > 0:45:05- which is kind of interesting. - Oh, yeah.
0:45:05 > 0:45:07Well, they say that sheep are not smart,
0:45:07 > 0:45:13but I've learnt a different side to that since I've been up here.
0:45:13 > 0:45:15Well, I'd love to see the dogs working, Bryn.
0:45:15 > 0:45:18- Yeah, no worries. Follow me, I'll show you.- Let's have a look.
0:45:20 > 0:45:23With 2,000 sheep to watch seven days a week,
0:45:23 > 0:45:26Arwyn recently decided to expand operations
0:45:26 > 0:45:29by advertising for a second shepherd.
0:45:29 > 0:45:32He was shocked by the flood of applicants
0:45:32 > 0:45:34from as far afield as Norway.
0:45:34 > 0:45:37But, for the moment, it's just Bryn, Meg, Non and Pero,
0:45:37 > 0:45:40working pockets of sheep away from the higher ground
0:45:40 > 0:45:43and towards the grass of the valley floor.
0:45:44 > 0:45:47- These dogs can't wait. - No, they're itching to go.
0:45:48 > 0:45:52Using a series of whistles and calls, Bryn directs his dogs
0:45:52 > 0:45:55to encourage the ewes to take the tracks to the lower ground.
0:45:57 > 0:45:59HE WHISTLES
0:45:59 > 0:46:01HE GIVES COMMAND
0:46:01 > 0:46:04Bryn's commands, he's commanding the dog to go left and right.
0:46:04 > 0:46:08- Yeah.- And there's one command for it to walk on.
0:46:08 > 0:46:10- Yeah.- And then obviously stop.
0:46:10 > 0:46:13- There's a great degree of cunning involved in this, isn't there?- Yes.
0:46:13 > 0:46:15And you've got several minds at work.
0:46:15 > 0:46:17You've got the sheep, of course,
0:46:17 > 0:46:20you've got the shepherd and the dogs,
0:46:20 > 0:46:23so everybody is involved in this great sort of interplay.
0:46:23 > 0:46:28And ultimately the sheep as well know that we've got
0:46:28 > 0:46:31a little bit more control over them than they thought that we had.
0:46:31 > 0:46:33LAUGHTER
0:46:35 > 0:46:37It's been a real pleasure to witness farming
0:46:37 > 0:46:40and conservation going hand in hand,
0:46:40 > 0:46:43protecting this landscape for generations to come.
0:46:43 > 0:46:46I think that catching a glimpse of the shepherds working these hills
0:46:46 > 0:46:50can only enhance the experience for the tens of thousands of walkers
0:46:50 > 0:46:53who currently take the footpaths through the valley
0:46:53 > 0:46:54each and every year.
0:47:00 > 0:47:04- We have but one more to see. - The Mystery House.- Exactly.
0:47:04 > 0:47:06Our Mystery House.
0:47:06 > 0:47:09Now, then, Cyron, this is your first foray into property hunting.
0:47:09 > 0:47:12What do you think our Mystery House might offer?
0:47:12 > 0:47:15It could be anything. I mean, it could be something with...
0:47:15 > 0:47:17Ultramodern?
0:47:17 > 0:47:20It could be just a derelict house, it's 50 grand
0:47:20 > 0:47:23so you've got loads over so you can do it up as much as you want.
0:47:23 > 0:47:26Yeah, yeah, I'm thinking it could be something like that.
0:47:26 > 0:47:32- Well, that may be what we've got for you. Ah, you see?- Maybe, maybe!
0:47:32 > 0:47:34Maybe. Maybe.
0:47:34 > 0:47:38Let's just see how big a project you're really up for.
0:47:40 > 0:47:43- I'm intrigued. And a little bit nervous now!- Yeah!
0:47:47 > 0:47:49Our mystery offering is located
0:47:49 > 0:47:51four and half miles south of Caernarfon,
0:47:51 > 0:47:54in the small village of Bethesda Bach,
0:47:54 > 0:47:57within half a mile of the coast at Dinas Dinlle.
0:47:58 > 0:48:01Dinas Dinlle is a small seaside settlement.
0:48:01 > 0:48:04Designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest,
0:48:04 > 0:48:08the beach here is a mix of pebble and sand.
0:48:08 > 0:48:10A cliff above is known as Boncan Dinas
0:48:10 > 0:48:15and is home to an Iron Age hill fort in the care of the National Trust.
0:48:15 > 0:48:18There is some evidence to suggest it was once the site of
0:48:18 > 0:48:20a Roman lighthouse.
0:48:20 > 0:48:23And our mystery property is just a short walk away.
0:48:26 > 0:48:28There you go.
0:48:28 > 0:48:30It's lovely frontage.
0:48:30 > 0:48:33That really is a lovely-looking house.
0:48:33 > 0:48:36Have you worked out what it was?
0:48:36 > 0:48:38There's a big mill stone there.
0:48:38 > 0:48:40- Yeah. It's an old mill.- OK.
0:48:40 > 0:48:43- It's lived up to its mysterious name.- Yeah.
0:48:45 > 0:48:50The lower floor could become a self-contained holiday let or B&B.
0:48:50 > 0:48:53OK, OK. I love the stonework.
0:48:53 > 0:48:57There is as much stonework visible on the inside as on the outside.
0:48:57 > 0:48:59- Sounds good.- That's rustic.- OK.
0:48:59 > 0:49:02Come on. Let's see what you think.
0:49:02 > 0:49:04Built around 1706,
0:49:04 > 0:49:08this former mill house was once part of a large estate.
0:49:08 > 0:49:10Arranged over three floors,
0:49:10 > 0:49:13we're entering via a door that leads into the ground floor,
0:49:13 > 0:49:17which could perhaps be used as a self-contained holiday let.
0:49:17 > 0:49:20Its unique hallway features a dining area at one end
0:49:20 > 0:49:22and a kitchen at the other.
0:49:25 > 0:49:27- Oh! Oh, wow!- Yes?- Yes.
0:49:27 > 0:49:29- You like it?- Yeah.
0:49:29 > 0:49:32Yeah, I love it. I love the stone.
0:49:32 > 0:49:34Come this way.
0:49:34 > 0:49:35I love it.
0:49:35 > 0:49:37I love it.
0:49:37 > 0:49:42It's so solid and it's all higgledy-piggledy, you know,
0:49:42 > 0:49:44I love it.
0:49:44 > 0:49:47It's definitely at the other end of the spectrum of what I like.
0:49:47 > 0:49:49It's too far gone for you.
0:49:49 > 0:49:53Yeah, it's a bit too much of what my mum likes.
0:49:53 > 0:49:55Have we pushed you over the edge?
0:49:55 > 0:49:57- Is it too historic?- I think so.
0:49:57 > 0:49:59I mean, you could, of course,
0:49:59 > 0:50:02- just leave all this here and do B&B down here.- Yeah.
0:50:02 > 0:50:06But I think the holiday let idea down here is a really simple fix
0:50:06 > 0:50:09cos it is only just removing that staircase, which is easy.
0:50:09 > 0:50:11Yeah.
0:50:11 > 0:50:14The historic character of our Mystery House
0:50:14 > 0:50:16is certainly charming Maxine.
0:50:16 > 0:50:19And if she did decide to offer this floor as a holiday let,
0:50:19 > 0:50:21her guests would also have two bedrooms,
0:50:21 > 0:50:25both of which are currently configured as twin rooms
0:50:25 > 0:50:27and served by a family bathroom.
0:50:27 > 0:50:30The two upper floors can be accessed via a bridge on
0:50:30 > 0:50:32the other side of the property,
0:50:32 > 0:50:34but we're taking the stairs
0:50:34 > 0:50:38which take us up to a large landing and snug.
0:50:39 > 0:50:43I'm thinking this might be your kitchen area...
0:50:43 > 0:50:46- OK.- ..if you were to convert downstairs.- OK.
0:50:46 > 0:50:47I can see that.
0:50:47 > 0:50:49- Can you see it, really? - Yeah, I can, actually.
0:50:49 > 0:50:52It would all flow very nicely into this room,
0:50:52 > 0:50:55- and I think you would not want to change this into a kitchen.- OK.
0:50:55 > 0:50:57You'll see why. Come and have a look.
0:50:59 > 0:51:02- I've been itching to show this to you all week.- Wow!
0:51:02 > 0:51:04- It is a wow, isn't it?- Ooh!
0:51:04 > 0:51:08- Pretty impressive focal point. - It's a castle.
0:51:08 > 0:51:11I mean, look at the ceiling. I think that's just been beautifully done.
0:51:11 > 0:51:15It's beautiful. It's really got the quirkiness I was looking for.
0:51:15 > 0:51:19- Yeah.- Nobody else is going to have a house like this.- Oh, no!- No.
0:51:19 > 0:51:23And then up there, the last bit to see, your master bedroom.
0:51:23 > 0:51:26- You get your own sort of eyrie, as it were.- Eyrie?
0:51:26 > 0:51:29Well, imagine waking up every morning
0:51:29 > 0:51:32- and coming down to see all this. - Yeah.
0:51:33 > 0:51:35So, finally, here we are -
0:51:35 > 0:51:38the top floor and your room.
0:51:38 > 0:51:41- Yeah, it's a decent size. - Your en-suite...
0:51:41 > 0:51:45I dare say you might turn to something a little more neutral.
0:51:45 > 0:51:48- And again, this lovely architecture of the roof.- Beautiful.
0:51:48 > 0:51:51- Yeah, it's really quirky. It's individual.- Is it you?
0:51:51 > 0:51:53- Yeah, it is. - I thought it would be, yeah.
0:51:53 > 0:51:56But, of course, it's all going to come down to the price, isn't it?
0:51:56 > 0:51:58- Mm.- Come on. Let's talk about that.
0:52:01 > 0:52:03Well, Maxine does seem to be impressed
0:52:03 > 0:52:05by the individual character and layout
0:52:05 > 0:52:07of this 18th century mill house.
0:52:07 > 0:52:10Outside, a plot of around an acre
0:52:10 > 0:52:13includes a small manageable garden and a paddock.
0:52:13 > 0:52:17There's also a large stone outbuilding that was once the mill
0:52:17 > 0:52:18and is currently used as a garage
0:52:18 > 0:52:22that could be put to a range of uses.
0:52:22 > 0:52:23It's an impressive building.
0:52:23 > 0:52:26I'm trying to get my head round rejigging things, you know,
0:52:26 > 0:52:29without spoiling the look of the place.
0:52:29 > 0:52:32- Difficult one.- Make me an offer on our mystery mill.- Yeah. Wow!
0:52:32 > 0:52:35Well, it's really impressive.
0:52:35 > 0:52:37I'm going to go for 300,000.
0:52:37 > 0:52:40I'm actually going to say 290.
0:52:40 > 0:52:45- Interesting. It's on at £295,000. - Hmm, OK.
0:52:45 > 0:52:47- Lots to mull over.- Yeah.
0:52:47 > 0:52:50You keep giving me these different ideas and I'm getting a headache.
0:52:50 > 0:52:52Go and have a wander around
0:52:52 > 0:52:55and I will catch up with the pair of you later on.
0:52:55 > 0:52:56- Thank you.- Off you go.
0:52:59 > 0:53:03Well, mystery houses do, of course, famously come in all sorts of
0:53:03 > 0:53:07shapes and sizes but this one really is a classic.
0:53:07 > 0:53:10A mystery mill, if you will. I like it.
0:53:13 > 0:53:17A significant £55,000 below budget,
0:53:17 > 0:53:18our 18th century mystery mill
0:53:18 > 0:53:21gives Maxine even more to think about.
0:53:21 > 0:53:25It has all the character features she could wish for
0:53:25 > 0:53:28whilst the three storey layout lends itself to separate living quarters
0:53:28 > 0:53:31and a ground floor holiday let.
0:53:31 > 0:53:34There's also a large stone outbuilding
0:53:34 > 0:53:36and it all sits on an acre of land
0:53:36 > 0:53:38within easy reach of the sea.
0:53:38 > 0:53:42The Mystery House certainly has lived up to its title.
0:53:42 > 0:53:45It caught me out, actually. The living room here,
0:53:45 > 0:53:47with these beautiful high stone walls
0:53:47 > 0:53:49and the beautiful wooden ceiling
0:53:49 > 0:53:50and the majestic fireplace
0:53:50 > 0:53:52is just wonderful.
0:53:52 > 0:53:55I feel like I'm sitting in my own castle.
0:53:55 > 0:53:57It was something that's not to my taste.
0:53:57 > 0:53:59It's definitely to my mum's taste,
0:53:59 > 0:54:01and this is basically her perfect property.
0:54:01 > 0:54:07I do need an income, and I would have to change it to some
0:54:07 > 0:54:11kind of B&B or a separate holiday let downstairs.
0:54:11 > 0:54:15It's thrown up some interesting possibilities, and something
0:54:15 > 0:54:19to definitely consider but I can't see it really working for my mum.
0:54:19 > 0:54:23Right, then. We've shown you as much as we can show you.
0:54:23 > 0:54:26It is now time for you to go away, the pair of you,
0:54:26 > 0:54:29talk about it and hopefully come up with a plan for the future.
0:54:29 > 0:54:31- OK.- Come on. Let's go.
0:54:37 > 0:54:41When we first met Maxine, she gave us two challenges, really.
0:54:41 > 0:54:43The first was to find her a home, but the second was to find her
0:54:43 > 0:54:46some sort of business idea that might go with it.
0:54:46 > 0:54:49Well, we've certainly given her plenty to think about,
0:54:49 > 0:54:50loads of options, really.
0:54:50 > 0:54:53But have we managed to find anything that's truly viable?
0:54:53 > 0:54:55Well, there is, of course, only one way to find out
0:54:55 > 0:54:57and that's to go and ask her.
0:55:03 > 0:55:07- Well, how's it been coming back to Wales?- It's been great.
0:55:07 > 0:55:10And I can see myself here very, very soon.
0:55:10 > 0:55:14And I think for you, Cyron, you were here not just to advise but also,
0:55:14 > 0:55:18I suppose, reassure yourself that Mum, in moving back to Wales,
0:55:18 > 0:55:21is making the right decision. What do you feel about that now?
0:55:21 > 0:55:23She's definitely got something to come to.
0:55:23 > 0:55:27It's a beautiful country, and she's found the perfect property for it.
0:55:27 > 0:55:30Well, there is one property. Let me guess.
0:55:30 > 0:55:34- Oh, is it the little cottage with the red door?- Yes.
0:55:34 > 0:55:36Yes! Of course it is.
0:55:36 > 0:55:39Yeah, it was just perfect.
0:55:39 > 0:55:41You know, the view is stunning.
0:55:41 > 0:55:45I don't have to walk up a hill or around the corner for a view,
0:55:45 > 0:55:46I can just enjoy it as it is.
0:55:46 > 0:55:49It was a perfect mix of old and new.
0:55:49 > 0:55:51The odd bit you could whack your head on but...
0:55:51 > 0:55:53head towards the back, you're fine.
0:55:53 > 0:55:55What happens next, then?
0:55:55 > 0:55:58As soon as I can, I'm going to contact the agent
0:55:58 > 0:56:01and find out some more details about the property
0:56:01 > 0:56:05with the view of trying to buy the property.
0:56:05 > 0:56:08And you'll be just down the road for at least another year or so
0:56:08 > 0:56:10at Bangor University so, actually,
0:56:10 > 0:56:13you've got somewhere to come and do the washing.
0:56:13 > 0:56:15- Are you pleased?- I am very pleased.
0:56:15 > 0:56:18- Good. Are you pleased? - Yes, very much.
0:56:18 > 0:56:20Phew! That means I am.
0:56:20 > 0:56:21We wish you all the best of luck.
0:56:21 > 0:56:23I can't wait to hear the good news.
0:56:23 > 0:56:24Let's cross everything
0:56:24 > 0:56:27- that you finally manage to secure it.- Thank you.
0:56:27 > 0:56:30- And good luck with the rest of your studies, mate.- Thank you.
0:56:35 > 0:56:38Well, if like me, you're a fan of landscape painting,
0:56:38 > 0:56:42I'm sure you'll agree that that is a near-perfect composition.
0:56:42 > 0:56:45This is one of my favourite views of Snowdonia.
0:56:45 > 0:56:48When I think of North Wales, that is what I picture -
0:56:48 > 0:56:52the view south down the Llanberis Pass towards Snowdon,
0:56:52 > 0:56:53wreathed in cloud.
0:56:53 > 0:56:55And it's this sort of rather dreamy image
0:56:55 > 0:56:59that's helped lead Maxine back here to find a new home.
0:56:59 > 0:57:02And now, with any luck, well, she's got one.
0:57:02 > 0:57:04So, that's it from us,
0:57:04 > 0:57:07but I'm going to leave you with that.
0:57:07 > 0:57:08I'll see you next time.
0:57:10 > 0:57:12If you would like to Escape to the Country in
0:57:12 > 0:57:15England, Northern Ireland, Wales or Scotland and would like our help,
0:57:15 > 0:57:18then please apply online at...