0:00:02 > 0:00:08Today I'm in England's oldest county and at the turn of the century orchards covered 25,000 acres,
0:00:08 > 0:00:14earning it the title of England's garden. Amazingly, today these apples are all still hand-picked.
0:00:14 > 0:00:19That's a bit unfortunate for me, but if you want to know where I am, keep watching to find out.
0:00:32 > 0:00:39'In today's show, I'll be helping a couple break away from suburbia for a slower pace of life.
0:00:39 > 0:00:45'I'll be showing them some of the best houses the area has to offer, giving them plenty to smile about.'
0:00:45 > 0:00:48This is lovely.
0:00:48 > 0:00:54'Including the mystery house, where we'll see it can be emotional when you know it feels like home.'
0:00:54 > 0:00:56It's lovely...
0:00:56 > 0:00:59- Guys!- I'm sorry.- It's OK.
0:01:02 > 0:01:08Today I'm in Kent and this is pretty back-breaking work, I've got to say.
0:01:08 > 0:01:13Historically, these apples would've ended up on the tables of London.
0:01:13 > 0:01:20Today I'm in the orchard with Craig, who manages it. Is it still fair to call Kent the garden of England?
0:01:20 > 0:01:25- Absolutely, for apple growing. - This is the place to be.- The place.
0:01:25 > 0:01:31- What variety have we got in here? - Today we're picking Braeburn. - Have I done a good job?
0:01:31 > 0:01:34- You've done very well.- No bad apples.
0:01:34 > 0:01:39Let's hope, fingers crossed, I do as well with our properties in Kent today.
0:01:39 > 0:01:45There's more to this county than fruit orchards. Neatly manicured landscapes of sloping hills
0:01:45 > 0:01:49and lush farmland surround picturesque villages and enchanting towns,
0:01:49 > 0:01:52like the cathedral city of Canterbury.
0:01:52 > 0:01:58Then there are pretty seaside resorts dotted around 350 miles of sprawling, rugged coastline,
0:01:58 > 0:02:02including the magnificent white cliffs of Dover.
0:02:02 > 0:02:04Everything about this county
0:02:04 > 0:02:08offers relaxation and escape from the rush of urban life.
0:02:09 > 0:02:15Given its great transport links to London, Kent is a sought-after location for home buyers.
0:02:15 > 0:02:18It's no surprise that the average detached house
0:02:18 > 0:02:22is a whopping 22.5% higher than the national average.
0:02:22 > 0:02:28I'm really hoping that today's buyers have the ability to compromise or a really good budget!
0:02:28 > 0:02:32One thing I know for sure is they haven't got far to travel.
0:02:32 > 0:02:36Today's property hunters are Barbara and Terry from Gillingham in Kent,
0:02:36 > 0:02:41who have lived in a four-bed detached bungalow for over 20 years.
0:02:41 > 0:02:46Terry works for himself as a builder and he and Barbara yearn for the countryside
0:02:46 > 0:02:52to live close to their grandchildren and to downsize to a new pad for their retirement.
0:02:52 > 0:02:58We moved into this property when our children were smaller. They've all left now and it's too big.
0:02:58 > 0:03:03We've been here for 22.5 years and just want somewhere quieter.
0:03:03 > 0:03:07They plan to stay in Kent, but with a complete change in environment.
0:03:07 > 0:03:13We live in a built-up area. It would be nice to move out to somewhere more rural.
0:03:13 > 0:03:19They're looking for a middle ground. Barbara yearns to be near the sea, Terry wants a more rural outlook.
0:03:19 > 0:03:26- We'd like to get more villagey, nearer the coast.- For me, a real bonus would be to be able
0:03:26 > 0:03:32to look out of your windows and see the countryside.
0:03:32 > 0:03:38Their three children may have fled the nest, but they still have a few much-loved birds.
0:03:38 > 0:03:42The parrots are coming with us. They're quite important to us.
0:03:42 > 0:03:45We need somewhere we can put them
0:03:45 > 0:03:48cos they're part of the family.
0:03:48 > 0:03:53Terry is looking forward to more time to play music in his own chill-out room.
0:03:55 > 0:03:58Barbara is after a big kitchen.
0:03:58 > 0:04:04I really like this kitchen. I had it put in to my design and in the next property
0:04:04 > 0:04:09I would like a similar sort of kitchen with a lot of workspace.
0:04:09 > 0:04:15And they both want space outside, too. Barbara wants to indulge her love of gardening.
0:04:15 > 0:04:18And Terry wants his own garage.
0:04:18 > 0:04:23We have a car port here and a garage, so it's quite important that on the next property
0:04:23 > 0:04:25we have a garage or space to put one.
0:04:25 > 0:04:28- What's their ideal home?- Detached.
0:04:28 > 0:04:31Rural or semi-rural.
0:04:31 > 0:04:36- Three bedrooms.- Kitchen that suits me, preferably big.- Nice garden.
0:04:36 > 0:04:39- Nice garden.- Definitely.- Yes.
0:04:39 > 0:04:44They not only have a clear wish list, they'll know when it's the right home for them.
0:04:44 > 0:04:48If we walk into a property, we'll know. We did with this one.
0:04:48 > 0:04:54- It was in a bit of a state, but we just knew.- It was for us. So when we see a property,
0:04:54 > 0:04:58- we shall know it's definitely for us.- Definitely.
0:05:00 > 0:05:06So to get the ball rolling, we've invited round an estate agent to value their property.
0:05:06 > 0:05:11This is an excellent example of a four-bed detached chalet bungalow.
0:05:11 > 0:05:16Lots of extra benefits, including kitchen/breakfast room, and a central location.
0:05:16 > 0:05:21With all that in mind, I would value this property at £350,000.
0:05:22 > 0:05:26We're happy with the estate agent's valuation.
0:05:26 > 0:05:34We bought the property 22 years ago for £55,000, so I think we've made quite a good profit.
0:05:34 > 0:05:39And with some additional funds, their total budget is £370,000.
0:05:42 > 0:05:47So Barbara and Terry are primarily looking for peace and quiet,
0:05:47 > 0:05:53but they also want to be closer to their grandchildren. That's a contradiction in terms!
0:05:53 > 0:05:57Anyway, they want 2-3 bedrooms, some space for their feathered friends,
0:05:57 > 0:06:03a chill-out room for Terry and a good size garden for Barbara to spread her horticultural wings.
0:06:03 > 0:06:09With children in Whitstable and Folkestone, they want a property in the Kent Downs area.
0:06:09 > 0:06:13We'll be focusing our search around Canterbury.
0:06:13 > 0:06:21I'll take them to properties I hope tick all their boxes, but I'll keep the prices under wraps.
0:06:21 > 0:06:28To finish off, I'll show them a real wild card, the mystery house, to throw something different in.
0:06:29 > 0:06:36Barbara and Terry's house hunting is up and running and Kent has properties for all budgets.
0:06:36 > 0:06:38Just take a look at these.
0:06:38 > 0:06:44If you had £2.95 million, you could buy this impressive Georgian house in a beautiful setting
0:06:44 > 0:06:52with 21 acres. Located near the village of West Farleigh, it's spacious and elegantly finished.
0:06:54 > 0:07:00For £800,000, this charming five-bed property dating back to the 17th century
0:07:00 > 0:07:04is full of character and on the fringes of Brenchley.
0:07:05 > 0:07:10And this Grade 2-listed period home dating back to the late 16th century
0:07:10 > 0:07:13could be yours for £495,000.
0:07:13 > 0:07:19Located in Langley, it sits on two and a quarter acres of immaculate gardens and paddocks.
0:07:20 > 0:07:26- Hello, guys!- Hello. - Usually, I would welcome you to the lovely area you have chosen, Kent,
0:07:26 > 0:07:31- but we haven't gone very far!- Not at all.- How well do you know the area?
0:07:31 > 0:07:37Quite well, actually. We only live about 40 miles away, so we know it pretty well.
0:07:37 > 0:07:43That's good. It's still a beautiful county and I understand that your budget, which was £350,000,
0:07:43 > 0:07:48- has changed a little? - It's gone to 370, yeah.- 370?
0:07:48 > 0:07:54That should give us something to play with. It is a popular area, so it may be a little bit tricky,
0:07:54 > 0:07:59- but 370 is good.- Yes. - And you're a builder.- I am, yes.
0:07:59 > 0:08:04- You'll have a meticulous eye! - Tapping walls, yeah.
0:08:04 > 0:08:08Are there any definite no-nos? Anything we've got to avoid?
0:08:08 > 0:08:14- Er...yeah. I don't like new houses. - OK.- Something a little bit older. - Thatched roofs.
0:08:14 > 0:08:18- No new houses, no thatched roofs. - Nothing listed.
0:08:18 > 0:08:22I said it was going to be OK, but now I'm starting to worry!
0:08:22 > 0:08:28Don't worry. We have got some really gorgeous properties. And the mystery house.
0:08:28 > 0:08:33We shouldn't waste any more time. It's time we got on with it.
0:08:37 > 0:08:41So Barbara and Terry have a budget of up to £370,000.
0:09:03 > 0:09:08- This is a downsizing move, isn't it? - It is, yeah. The property we've got,
0:09:08 > 0:09:13I've extended over the years because of our family.
0:09:13 > 0:09:17Then they've moved out and you're left with a bigger property.
0:09:17 > 0:09:22- And we really want something a little bit smaller.- Yes.
0:09:22 > 0:09:27Just a little bit smaller, but enough room to spread out a little.
0:09:27 > 0:09:34- Are you concerned about that aspect? Getting rid of some belongings... It's quite emotional.- It is.
0:09:34 > 0:09:38It is emotional to get rid of it. You've got to do it.
0:09:38 > 0:09:42- It'll be nice, exciting. - You're ready now.- Yes.- Definitely.
0:09:42 > 0:09:47- Look what you're swapping it for. - Yes! Yeah.
0:09:48 > 0:09:51Let the search begin.
0:09:51 > 0:09:58For our first property, we travel 30 minutes south of Canterbury to the village of Paddlesworth.
0:09:58 > 0:10:03Surrounded by gorgeous nature trails, it offers the peaceful life Terry and Barbara imagine.
0:10:03 > 0:10:06There's also a pub to mingle with the locals,
0:10:06 > 0:10:12and for a wide selection of shops, the village of Hawkinge is a five-minute drive away.
0:10:16 > 0:10:21- So here we are.- Wow. - This is the property.
0:10:21 > 0:10:23- It looks good.- It does.- Impressive.
0:10:23 > 0:10:28- A nice slate roof.- Lovely. - It is a nice detached house.
0:10:28 > 0:10:35I know that was important to you. And it's a gorgeous looking one from the outside.
0:10:35 > 0:10:40- Lovely, yeah.- So a thumbs up to start with?- Yes, definitely.
0:10:40 > 0:10:45That's important from the builder! But this weather is not so good.
0:10:45 > 0:10:49- We need to get on in there and have a look around.- Fine.
0:10:49 > 0:10:55'It's good to see the rain hasn't dampened their spirits. Let's see what they think of the interior.'
0:10:55 > 0:11:01- In we come, out of the rain.- Wow. - And straight into the kitchen. - This is lovely.- This is brilliant.
0:11:01 > 0:11:07- A nice-size kitchen. It's lovely. - Yes, this is well done. Really well done.- It's lovely.
0:11:07 > 0:11:15- "Lovely", "well done". - A nice kitchen. It's lovely. Nice and roomy, big.
0:11:15 > 0:11:20It's a good, spacious kitchen. It's got everything you need in here.
0:11:20 > 0:11:25- That lovely big cooker over there, range style.- It's what I'm used to.
0:11:25 > 0:11:28- Is it?- Yeah, it's nice.
0:11:28 > 0:11:34- The kitchen in your current home is special to you because you designed it.- But it's smaller than this.
0:11:34 > 0:11:39- This is upsizing.- Aah! - This is upsizing, this is lovely.
0:11:39 > 0:11:43- This has got the wow factor for me. - Fantastic! A good start.
0:11:43 > 0:11:47- I think we should keep moving. Let's go through this way.- OK.
0:11:50 > 0:11:57So into this space, which is a lovely little room. At the moment it's an office space.
0:11:57 > 0:12:02- You could maybe have a smaller dining room.- You could, yes.
0:12:02 > 0:12:08- Quite a nice little area.- It is. - So another good space. Shall we keep moving?- Yes.- Follow me.
0:12:13 > 0:12:18- Through into the living space. - This is nice.- It's nice. Cosy.
0:12:18 > 0:12:24- It's cosy, isn't it?- Yes. I can see our furniture in here. - Oh, I like that!
0:12:24 > 0:12:29- Seeing your furniture in here. - It's nice to have it all done.
0:12:29 > 0:12:33- Yeah.- You can have a rest! - Have a rest!
0:12:33 > 0:12:39- Just move in.- I do like that fireplace.- It's a great big one.
0:12:39 > 0:12:43- A good feature.- It's brilliant. - "Brilliant"?
0:12:43 > 0:12:51That is a word I like very much! We've had a fantastic start. There's a lot more to see. Let's go.
0:12:51 > 0:12:57'And wait till they see the conservatory, which is just the perfect place to relax.'
0:12:57 > 0:13:03- Let's look at this sun room. - It's a nice room for the parrots! - It is. It's ideal, yeah.
0:13:03 > 0:13:08- They'd love it in here.- They've been with you a long time.- They have.
0:13:08 > 0:13:13- We can't really part with them now. - It started about 20 years ago with Nigel.
0:13:13 > 0:13:19- So you've got Nigel... - Geoffrey.- And Rosie. - Nigel, Geoffrey and Rosie in here.
0:13:19 > 0:13:25- They get the room with the best light!- They'd love it. - They'd love it. It's ideal.
0:13:25 > 0:13:31- We've made a cracking start so far. - Yes.- But it's not over yet. Let's have a look at some more.
0:13:31 > 0:13:38'So far this house has everything they need. We're heading back through the lounge.
0:13:38 > 0:13:44'There's a spacious shower room and utility room, but let's see what they think of the bedrooms.'
0:13:44 > 0:13:49Come on in. This is a three-bedroom property and this is the master.
0:13:49 > 0:13:54- Right.- Ooh! A slightly hesitant "right" there!
0:13:54 > 0:13:58- Smaller than we're used to. - We've got a big bed.
0:13:58 > 0:14:02- I'm not sure it's going to fit in here.- So that was the hesitation.
0:14:02 > 0:14:07- Yes, it's a super king bed. - Super king! OK.
0:14:07 > 0:14:13- It might fit across. - It would just about fit in there. - You wouldn't sit up too quick!- No.
0:14:13 > 0:14:19That is the thing about this room. It's built right under the eaves so you've got the slope there.
0:14:19 > 0:14:25- But you have got great views. - It's a nice room.- Yes, it is. - Definitely got a lot going for it.
0:14:25 > 0:14:29- In general, so far.- That's good. Shall we have a look at some more?
0:14:29 > 0:14:32- Yes.- Certainly.
0:14:32 > 0:14:36'Terry and Barbara are slightly concerned by the size of the room,
0:14:36 > 0:14:41'but they do seem open-minded.' We have another bedroom here.
0:14:41 > 0:14:48- Oh, yes. This is a nice size. - It is.- This is not bad, is it? - That's a nice positive reaction.
0:14:48 > 0:14:52- It's an extremely bright house. - It's got a nice feel to it.
0:14:52 > 0:14:57- A good feel. That's important. - Yes.- How you feel when you walk in.
0:14:57 > 0:15:03- I know that's how you chose the property you're in.- That's right.- What feeling are you getting?
0:15:03 > 0:15:07- I'm getting a good...- A nice feeling. - It is a nice place.
0:15:07 > 0:15:11- It is nice. - A nice property for two people.
0:15:11 > 0:15:15'There's one more spacious bedroom and a family bathroom.
0:15:15 > 0:15:21'We're heading out to the garden where I do have one confession to make - there's no garage.'
0:15:21 > 0:15:27- It's still a bit grey! But I think the rain is holding off for the moment.- Right, OK.
0:15:27 > 0:15:33Anyway, here we are out into the garden space.
0:15:33 > 0:15:37- It's smaller than...- What we wanted. - But it's...- It's quite nice.
0:15:37 > 0:15:42- Quite a nice area.- It's compact. - You could live with the garden.
0:15:42 > 0:15:47- It's quite a nice size.- Yes, not a bad size at all.- For us.
0:15:47 > 0:15:52- It's nice and neat and tidy. - Over there, a log shed for your wood burner.
0:15:52 > 0:15:58And plenty of parking space there. The house is detached, but you do have some neighbours,
0:15:58 > 0:16:02- although you're not overlooked. - Exactly right.
0:16:02 > 0:16:08- That's not a problem. - Anything on your mind?- The garage. - There's not a garage, no.
0:16:08 > 0:16:14- There might be scope.- Might be. - A little project for you, build something over there.- Yeah.
0:16:14 > 0:16:20Let's turn around now and have another look at this fine figure of a house. Great location.
0:16:20 > 0:16:24Nice and quiet. How much would you be willing to pay for it?
0:16:24 > 0:16:30- Oh, gosh. It's an awkward one. - It is. I would hazard a guess...
0:16:30 > 0:16:33at somewhere around about 360.
0:16:33 > 0:16:35£360,000.
0:16:35 > 0:16:39- I think I'd go a bit higher.- OK. - About 375, I would say.
0:16:39 > 0:16:42- Would you?- A bit out of our budget.
0:16:42 > 0:16:45- Shall I put you out of your misery? - Yes, please.
0:16:45 > 0:16:51The guide price on this property is £350,000 - £375,000.
0:16:51 > 0:16:55- Really?- So you were spot on there at the higher end.
0:16:55 > 0:16:59- You weren't so bad either. Very good guess.- I'd say it's fairly priced.
0:16:59 > 0:17:04- For what it is. It's a very nice place.- It is.
0:17:04 > 0:17:08- Something you'd be interested in? - Yes, definitely.- Good! I like that.
0:17:08 > 0:17:14- Head back in for another look and we should speak later on. - OK.- Catch up with you later.
0:17:14 > 0:17:16Right-o.
0:17:16 > 0:17:20They loved it from the inside. It is at the top end of their budget,
0:17:20 > 0:17:25but we're in a tricky market, so they could put in an offer.
0:17:42 > 0:17:46The location of the house is perfect. It's just what we wanted.
0:17:46 > 0:17:52- Walking into the kitchen, it's lovely. My sort of kitchen. - The size is brilliant.
0:17:52 > 0:17:55- I think it's lovely.- It is.
0:17:55 > 0:17:59We are downsizing and it's got everything that we need, basically.
0:17:59 > 0:18:02The lounge is lovely.
0:18:02 > 0:18:10- I think this is a lovely room. - Yes.- It's cosy.- Our furniture would fit in nice here.- Yeah, it would.
0:18:10 > 0:18:13- It would suit us down to the ground. - Yeah.
0:18:13 > 0:18:18- OK, you two. Seen enough?- Yes. - It's time to drag you away.
0:18:18 > 0:18:19OK, OK.
0:18:30 > 0:18:37One of Kent's most well-known towns is Canterbury, where our buyers took a stroll earlier in the week.
0:18:37 > 0:18:43It's famous for its stunning cathedral, which dates back to 597AD and is now a World Heritage Site.
0:18:43 > 0:18:50I think Barbara and Terry would be very content doing their shopping in one of Kent's finest hubs.
0:18:50 > 0:18:54I'm really looking forward to moving to the countryside,
0:18:54 > 0:18:59but I'm looking more forward to all these nice shops!
0:18:59 > 0:19:05A short drive away is Herne Mill. Built in 1789, it was a working mill until 1980,
0:19:05 > 0:19:11when it fell into disrepair. It's now restored to its former glory and open to visitors.
0:19:11 > 0:19:14Megan Taylor explains the history.
0:19:14 > 0:19:17Back at the end of the 19th century,
0:19:17 > 0:19:21the big commercial mills started operating in the ports
0:19:21 > 0:19:25and they were using big rollers to produce vast quantities of flour.
0:19:25 > 0:19:30At that time, the windmills were having problems competing,
0:19:30 > 0:19:36so they started to introduce small pieces of machinery like this. Now I'll show you how it works.
0:19:36 > 0:19:41Grain came down the chute into the hopper, down through here,
0:19:41 > 0:19:47down between the rollers and into the bin at the bottom. Here's what comes out.
0:19:47 > 0:19:54This is the animal feed. The grain has all been crushed. The pieces of white are the flour.
0:19:54 > 0:19:59The grain's been crushed so the animals can digest it when they eat.
0:20:01 > 0:20:05Next it's time for a stroll out in the fresh air.
0:20:05 > 0:20:12Five miles east of Canterbury lies one of the UK's finest habitats - Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve.
0:20:12 > 0:20:16There are several walks through the 241 hectares of wetlands,
0:20:16 > 0:20:22which are home to reed birds, lakes and a variety of bird populations.
0:20:22 > 0:20:25Barbara and Terry seem very at home.
0:20:25 > 0:20:29- Amazing. It's a lovely view.- Yes. - We've lived in Kent all our lives
0:20:29 > 0:20:34- and didn't know this existed. It's lovely.- Beautiful.
0:20:34 > 0:20:37- We'll have to come back here. - Definitely.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47For our next property, we travel ten miles away from the last house
0:20:47 > 0:20:49to the village of Stanford North.
0:20:49 > 0:20:51With only a church and a pub,
0:20:51 > 0:20:54they can visit the pretty village of Saltwood a couple of miles down the road
0:20:54 > 0:20:57for a little more community life - and shopping.
0:20:57 > 0:21:00It's also just a ten-minute scenic drive to the sea,
0:21:00 > 0:21:02which should delight Barbara.
0:21:02 > 0:21:05Well, we're in Stanford North.
0:21:05 > 0:21:09The good thing about this area is that you're very close to Folkestone.
0:21:09 > 0:21:12You're not far from Ashford, only 20 minutes from Canterbury.
0:21:12 > 0:21:15- Brilliant.- So it's a great location. Brilliant!
0:21:15 > 0:21:18So come up here and have a look at this.
0:21:18 > 0:21:22- It looks very nice.- Yes, it does. - Very nice?
0:21:22 > 0:21:26- So first impressions?- Yeah. - Yes, looks nice. Yes, it does.
0:21:26 > 0:21:30- It is a bungalow, clearly.- Yes. - And you're currently in a bungalow.
0:21:30 > 0:21:33- Are you OK with that?- Yes. Yes, fine with a bungalow.
0:21:33 > 0:21:36One of the bonuses to this property is the garage at the side there.
0:21:36 > 0:21:39- That's something you were looking for.- Yes.
0:21:39 > 0:21:41- Certainly, yes.- Good. A lot of space.
0:21:41 > 0:21:44But what do you think about the property itself, size-wise?
0:21:44 > 0:21:46- It looks OK to me. - It looks a nice size.
0:21:46 > 0:21:51- We are downsizing, so yeah, it looks fine.- Good, that's the spirit!
0:21:51 > 0:21:55I do think you're going to be quite surprised when you see inside. Shall we go?
0:21:56 > 0:21:58'So let's see what they think of the inside,
0:21:58 > 0:22:01'which has been decorated to a beautiful finish.'
0:22:01 > 0:22:03Here we go.
0:22:03 > 0:22:05We're into the hallway first of all.
0:22:05 > 0:22:07Just give our feet a good wipe.
0:22:07 > 0:22:10A lovely fresh room, and gorgeous carpet in here.
0:22:10 > 0:22:13- This is unusual. - It's a nice hallway.
0:22:13 > 0:22:18- Yeah.- Nice.- Yeah, it's nice. Well... If you come out here,
0:22:18 > 0:22:21we're right in the centre of the property, it is a bungalow,
0:22:21 > 0:22:24so we're all on one level. It's got three bedrooms,
0:22:24 > 0:22:26and they're all off of this hallway here.
0:22:26 > 0:22:28- But we'll come back to those.- Yes.
0:22:28 > 0:22:32So that's why, I guess, it's got this unusual shape,
0:22:32 > 0:22:36because it's right in the heart of the property, everything else is over the other side.
0:22:36 > 0:22:39- So far?- It's nice and bright. Nice hallway.
0:22:39 > 0:22:43- We'll see what's through there. - I thought you might say that.
0:22:43 > 0:22:46You're excited to see what else there is. Well, come this way.
0:22:50 > 0:22:54Now, what do you think of this?
0:22:54 > 0:22:56- This is a nice size. - Oh, this is nice.
0:22:56 > 0:23:00A little feature fireplace there. And a lot of light coming in.
0:23:00 > 0:23:02Yeah, definitely, nice and bright.
0:23:02 > 0:23:06- I mean, could you imagine your furniture in here?- Yes.
0:23:06 > 0:23:09- Yes, this'll all fit in, yeah. - It will, yeah.
0:23:09 > 0:23:14It's fine. But I think the space, it's just a little bit too small.
0:23:14 > 0:23:18Our furniture would fit in all right, but a bit tight, I think.
0:23:18 > 0:23:22It's just a little bit too small for my liking.
0:23:22 > 0:23:25Terry, you've been a bit quiet, what are your thoughts?
0:23:25 > 0:23:29Pretty much the same, really. The view out into that garden is fantastic.
0:23:29 > 0:23:33- And you couldn't better that. - We'll get outside later on,
0:23:33 > 0:23:36and have a look at that garden - I think you'll be wowed.
0:23:36 > 0:23:40- Yeah, I'm sure.- But right now, I want to show you the kitchen.- OK.- OK.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43'Even though they think the room is too small,
0:23:43 > 0:23:45'they seem very keen on the views.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48'With Terry being a builder, there is potential to extend this property.
0:23:48 > 0:23:51'Let's head to the kitchen and see what they think.'
0:23:51 > 0:23:54Here we come into the kitchen.
0:23:54 > 0:23:56OK. It's a bit small.
0:23:56 > 0:23:59Mm...
0:23:59 > 0:24:01No place for a table.
0:24:01 > 0:24:07- It's got quite a lot of worktop area...- It's nicely done.
0:24:07 > 0:24:11- Definitely nicely done.- The views again, out on to that garden...
0:24:11 > 0:24:14- That's brilliant.- Yeah, definitely. - It's a nice modern kitchen,
0:24:14 > 0:24:16- done in the last seven years.- Right.
0:24:16 > 0:24:19But is it what you would have done with the space?
0:24:19 > 0:24:23I think that extensions, if possible,
0:24:23 > 0:24:27would have to be done to make it bigger, definitely.
0:24:27 > 0:24:29This kitchen is still part of the old house.
0:24:29 > 0:24:33- There is an extension and it's out that way.- Right.
0:24:33 > 0:24:34So let's have a look out there
0:24:34 > 0:24:39and see what they've done with the rooms, and you can think about what you might do.
0:24:39 > 0:24:42Cos we've got a good space here and the garden is fantastic.
0:24:42 > 0:24:45- Maybe just think about how you might rearrange things...- Yes.
0:24:45 > 0:24:48- ..To get the most out of it.- Yeah.
0:24:48 > 0:24:52'Barbara thought the kitchen was small, but there is also a dining area,
0:24:52 > 0:24:54'and a handy utility room.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57'At the back of the house is another room, currently used as an office.'
0:24:57 > 0:25:00I think you'll like this little room for many reasons.
0:25:00 > 0:25:03We could put Terry in here to play that guitar.
0:25:03 > 0:25:06- It's ideal for that, yeah.- It is.
0:25:06 > 0:25:10- Little den.- A little den. I also thought the parrots might like it.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13- They could go in here.- They could. - They would like it as well.
0:25:13 > 0:25:18- Would you be able to co-exist with the parrots?- I think so, yeah.
0:25:18 > 0:25:21- Share the space, guitars, parrots? - Yeah, they won't complain.
0:25:21 > 0:25:25What do you think, seriously, about this room?
0:25:25 > 0:25:28- Yeah, it's a nice size.- Yeah.
0:25:28 > 0:25:30And the layout of what you've seen so far?
0:25:30 > 0:25:35Personally I think it's a fair size area-wise,
0:25:35 > 0:25:38but too many rooms, which makes them small rooms.
0:25:38 > 0:25:41'So Terry thinks the rooms are too small,
0:25:41 > 0:25:45'but I'm sure they'll like the three spacious ground-floor bedrooms.
0:25:45 > 0:25:47'Let's take a look at what would be their room.'
0:25:49 > 0:25:52- Quite a nice size.- It's not bad. - It's nice.
0:25:52 > 0:25:55You can fit a good double bed in here.
0:25:55 > 0:25:57Lots of wardrobe space too.
0:25:57 > 0:25:59- Yes, nice-size room. - It's nice to have the...
0:25:59 > 0:26:01It is a nice-size room.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04For bedroom sizes, is this what you were looking for?
0:26:04 > 0:26:08- Yes.- I think this is what we were expecting, isn't it, really? Yeah.
0:26:08 > 0:26:11- So the bedrooms get a thumbs up. - Yeah.- Yes.
0:26:11 > 0:26:13- The kitchen might need extending. - Mm-hmm.
0:26:13 > 0:26:16- Shall we have a look at the bathroom?- Let's.
0:26:19 > 0:26:20Just have a look in here.
0:26:20 > 0:26:24- OK.- This is your family bathroom.
0:26:24 > 0:26:27There's a bath with a shower over it just over there.
0:26:27 > 0:26:31- And you have got some natural light from that skylight up there.- Yeah.
0:26:31 > 0:26:36- Yeah! It's quite a compact little bathroom, isn't it?- Small.
0:26:36 > 0:26:41- But...yeah.- So downsizing, but you're feeling this is a downsize too far?
0:26:41 > 0:26:45- Yes.- I tell you something that's not too small.- Mmm?- The garden.
0:26:45 > 0:26:49- Right.- I defy you to tell me that this is too small, OK?
0:26:49 > 0:26:51This way.
0:26:52 > 0:26:55'They don't seem overly enthusiastic with this house,
0:26:55 > 0:26:59'but I think they'll be impressed with the large outside space.'
0:26:59 > 0:27:02So here we have the wonderful,
0:27:02 > 0:27:07- expansive garden.- This is lovely. Lovely garden.- Wow.- Huge.
0:27:07 > 0:27:10- I get a "wow!"- Yes, definitely the wow factor here.
0:27:10 > 0:27:12- Cannot fault the garden. - No, it's lovely.
0:27:12 > 0:27:18- Quarter of an acre.- And that's so unusual with this type of property. - It is.
0:27:18 > 0:27:21To have such a huge garden. Yeah. It's lovely.
0:27:21 > 0:27:25- Ideal.- OK, I think we should have a look at more of this garden.
0:27:25 > 0:27:27Let's not stand up here, let's get down there.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29- Right.- Let's go.
0:27:29 > 0:27:32'Things are looking up. The garden has won them over,
0:27:32 > 0:27:35'and there's a whole lot more to see that should please Barbara.'
0:27:35 > 0:27:37Lovely long walk up this garden!
0:27:37 > 0:27:41- And back here...look at that.- Gosh.
0:27:41 > 0:27:43- Wonderful vegetable plot.- Yeah.
0:27:43 > 0:27:47I know you really like tending the vegetables, you've started already.
0:27:47 > 0:27:50- Yes, yes.- Can't fault the garden at all.- No, it's lovely.
0:27:50 > 0:27:52It's a lovely garden.
0:27:52 > 0:27:54Something you can see both of yourselves doing?
0:27:54 > 0:27:58- Oh, this is fantastic, yes, definitely.- Yeah.
0:27:58 > 0:28:01So! The all-important question.
0:28:01 > 0:28:05I think this will have an influence on what you think of this property.
0:28:05 > 0:28:07How much would you pay for it?
0:28:07 > 0:28:11I would guess at 315, 320?
0:28:11 > 0:28:15I would go...to 350, I think.
0:28:15 > 0:28:17Right up to 350! We've got a big difference here.
0:28:17 > 0:28:21- Yes.- What if I told you it's on the market...
0:28:21 > 0:28:24at £329,000?
0:28:24 > 0:28:27- Gosh.- A bit higher than you said, but lower than yours.
0:28:27 > 0:28:30And, most importantly, below your budget.
0:28:30 > 0:28:33- That's a nice price. - That is a nice price. It's not a bad price at all.
0:28:33 > 0:28:39- It can definitely be extended, so... - Yeah.- It is a nice property.
0:28:39 > 0:28:43Well, you've got a bit of thinking to do. Go back in, have another look around,
0:28:43 > 0:28:46get thinking and we will talk later on.
0:28:46 > 0:28:48- Off you go, I'll see you later.- Bye.
0:29:08 > 0:29:14I would say take the garage down, the shed, the greenhouse,
0:29:14 > 0:29:18bring the drive up straight through, put a larger garage there.
0:29:18 > 0:29:20Yes. Definitely.
0:29:20 > 0:29:24I liked the look of the property on the outside, it was fine.
0:29:24 > 0:29:28But it was a little bit too close to the neighbours.
0:29:28 > 0:29:33Decor is absolutely lovely. It's my sort of taste.
0:29:33 > 0:29:36- I'd have this as the main bedroom. - Yeah. Got a nice feel to it.
0:29:36 > 0:29:38Yes, I like this a lot better.
0:29:38 > 0:29:44The property is not too small - just the issue of the rooms. There's so many rooms.
0:29:44 > 0:29:48I like the property. The garden's brilliant, absolutely brilliant.
0:29:48 > 0:29:54I think the location is fine. It's nice and sort of semi-rural, if you like.
0:29:54 > 0:29:58- Hi, guys.- Hi!- Lot to think about now, haven't you?
0:29:58 > 0:30:00There is a lot to think about, yeah.
0:30:00 > 0:30:03- Let's get moving on then, shall we? - OK.- OK.- Let's go.
0:30:12 > 0:30:17As the sun sets over the Kent Downs, day one of our property search draws to a close
0:30:17 > 0:30:22and Barbara and Terry head back to the hotel to reflect on all they've seen.
0:30:22 > 0:30:24So, what did you think of the country cottage?
0:30:24 > 0:30:26I liked it. I really liked it.
0:30:26 > 0:30:29I liked the kitchen, I liked the lounge.
0:30:29 > 0:30:32- The bedrooms were a bit small.- Yeah.
0:30:32 > 0:30:34But I think I could live with that.
0:30:34 > 0:30:37- Yeah, I think it was nice. - What about the bungalow?
0:30:37 > 0:30:39Rooms were a bit small.
0:30:39 > 0:30:42I would have liked a bigger kitchen.
0:30:42 > 0:30:44- Yeah.- So you could put a table in it.
0:30:44 > 0:30:49The price, there was scope in what we hoped to get for ours to the difference.
0:30:49 > 0:30:50The garden...
0:30:50 > 0:30:55We could extend it. The garden was beautiful, that had the wow factor, didn't it?
0:30:55 > 0:30:58Yeah. But then, we've got properties to see tomorrow, so...
0:30:58 > 0:31:02- Something might come up with everything we want. - Yeah.- Let's hope it does.
0:31:15 > 0:31:19'Today's house hunters are Terry and Barbara from Gillingham, Kent.
0:31:19 > 0:31:24'They're looking for a new home for their retirement, still in Kent,
0:31:24 > 0:31:30'but in a rural location or by the coast. So far they've seen one house that may be hard to beat.'
0:31:30 > 0:31:33- It would suit us down to the ground. - Yeah.
0:31:33 > 0:31:39'But there's still another superb home and a mystery property to come, which moves them to tears.'
0:31:39 > 0:31:42You look almost emotional, Terry.
0:31:42 > 0:31:44- Do you really like it?- It's lovely.
0:31:50 > 0:31:54It's the start of a bright new day and I have high hopes for our property search.
0:31:54 > 0:31:59We've decided to try something new, because although Barbara and Terry are supposed to be downsizing,
0:31:59 > 0:32:02I'm not sure they've grasped exactly what that means,
0:32:02 > 0:32:04and size of room seems to be a big issue.
0:32:04 > 0:32:07So let's find out if bigger is really better.
0:32:08 > 0:32:12For our first property today, we're travelling towards the coast,
0:32:12 > 0:32:18seven miles north of Canterbury to Herne Village. This sleepy community has loads of character
0:32:18 > 0:32:24and being so close to the sea it's ideal for Barbara. The slower pace should keep Terry happy,
0:32:24 > 0:32:27striking a perfect balance.
0:32:29 > 0:32:34- We're only six miles away from Whitstable and we're very close to the sea as well.- Right.
0:32:34 > 0:32:41- Is that a thumbs up?- Yes, yes. - One of your daughters is in Whitstable.- Yes.
0:32:41 > 0:32:48- Close to the grandchildren. And here is the property. - Oh, it's good.- Looks nice.- Nice.
0:32:48 > 0:32:54- You like the look of the outside. It's got a garage there.- Yes. - First impressions?- Good.
0:32:54 > 0:32:59- Thumbs up, I think. - Thumbs up?- Yes.- And positive!
0:32:59 > 0:33:04There are four bedrooms inside. I think we should get in and have a look. Let's go.
0:33:12 > 0:33:17In we come. Out of the cold and into a lovely warm and big hallway.
0:33:17 > 0:33:22- Yes.- That's nice. - Yes, it's nice.
0:33:22 > 0:33:24- Yes?- Nice entrance.
0:33:24 > 0:33:29The stairs to the first floor. Some really good bedrooms up there.
0:33:29 > 0:33:34And down here a long hallway. Come this way. Downstairs cloakroom.
0:33:34 > 0:33:37- That's always handy.- Right.- Nearby.
0:33:37 > 0:33:41- In here is your living room. - Oh, yes.
0:33:41 > 0:33:44- This is a nice size.- Nice size.
0:33:44 > 0:33:48- It's a great size.- Yes, it is. - nice feature fireplace.
0:33:48 > 0:33:55- Lovely feature fireplace. It's in working order.- Yes. - For nice cosy winter evenings.
0:33:55 > 0:33:59And on summer days or even blue sky winter days, the garden.
0:33:59 > 0:34:02- Yeah, very nice.- It's a nice size.
0:34:02 > 0:34:07- It's the right kind of size for a living room for you?- This is fine.
0:34:07 > 0:34:13- You can imagine yourselves being comfortable?- Yes.- You like this so far?- Definitely.
0:34:13 > 0:34:17- There's a lot more to it.- OK. - Let's keep going.- Fine.
0:34:19 > 0:34:25Now we're into the kitchen. Barbara, this is the room for you. What do you think?
0:34:25 > 0:34:29Yeah, this is a nice size. Lovely. The layout's perfect.
0:34:29 > 0:34:36- I can see myself in here.- How much time do you spend in your kitchen? - A lot of time.- A lot?
0:34:36 > 0:34:40- A lot of time.- Baking, cooking? - Cooking. Chocolate cake.
0:34:40 > 0:34:47I'm starting to get the feeling. So we'll have the baking going on in there, view onto the garden.
0:34:47 > 0:34:52- That's perfect for baking. - What are your thoughts, Terry?
0:34:52 > 0:34:56- I think it's fine. Definitely. - A thumbs up?- Yes, it is.
0:34:56 > 0:35:00- And you like this island.- Yes. - You could have breakfast here.
0:35:00 > 0:35:06- Would you like somewhere for your formal dining?- Yes.- Perhaps there's something behind here.
0:35:06 > 0:35:10- That's a nice size.- It is. - Off the kitchen.
0:35:10 > 0:35:12- Nice, reasonable room.- Yes.
0:35:12 > 0:35:19- You can imagine using it?- Yes. - Good! I think we're doing well so far.- So far!
0:35:19 > 0:35:24- So far, so good. It's a big house and we've more rooms to see.- Right.
0:35:25 > 0:35:32Out here we've got three more rooms I want to show you, starting here. Poke your head in there, Terry.
0:35:32 > 0:35:34- OK.- Because that is the garage.
0:35:35 > 0:35:38Oh, yes. Yeah.
0:35:38 > 0:35:42- It's smaller than what we're used to. - Yeah.- OK.
0:35:42 > 0:35:46- And you can't really extend it because of the positioning.- No.
0:35:46 > 0:35:50- So this could be a compromise issue. - Yeah, it could well be.
0:35:50 > 0:35:53Yeah? Something to think about.
0:35:53 > 0:35:59'Opposite the garage is another small room which could home the parrots. At the end of the corridor
0:35:59 > 0:36:03'is a downstairs bedroom with its own en suite.
0:36:03 > 0:36:08'Let's look at the upstairs bedrooms, one of which is currently used as a study
0:36:08 > 0:36:10'where Terry could play his guitar.
0:36:10 > 0:36:14'The other would be ideal for the grandchildren. Next, the master.'
0:36:14 > 0:36:18- This is a nice size.- Yeah. - Similar to what we've got.
0:36:18 > 0:36:25- And that means you could fit the bed in!- Yes, I think it would go in there.- Lying in bed,
0:36:25 > 0:36:28looking out to the views.
0:36:28 > 0:36:33'Also up here is a modern family bathroom and a separate shower.
0:36:33 > 0:36:36'They seem more than happy with the interior.
0:36:36 > 0:36:42We're heading out to see what they think of the garden.'
0:36:43 > 0:36:50Out into the garden space... Together with the big house, you've got a fairly decent size here.
0:36:50 > 0:36:52- Yes, a nice size.- It is.
0:36:52 > 0:36:58Clearly the family that live here have children. We've got the big trampoline and the swings.
0:36:58 > 0:37:03- Take all of that away and you could have a vegetable patch.- I think so.
0:37:03 > 0:37:08- Come over here. Have another look at the house.- OK.- Out here.- OK.
0:37:08 > 0:37:14- It's a nice big property.- Yes. - Gorgeous garden.- Yes. - And we're close to the sea.- Yes.
0:37:14 > 0:37:17So how much do you think it's worth?
0:37:17 > 0:37:21I think...it would be about 350.
0:37:21 > 0:37:26- OK. Top end. - I think slightly more than that.
0:37:26 > 0:37:29I think probably more like 360, 365.
0:37:29 > 0:37:37Well, how do you feel about me letting you know it's on the market at 50 quid short of £350,000?
0:37:37 > 0:37:41- Oh, really?- Yes!- Really? - A bit lower than you thought.
0:37:41 > 0:37:47- Definitely, yeah. A lot of house for the money.- Yeah, it is. - It's an interesting price.
0:37:47 > 0:37:54- Your cogs are starting to turn.- Yes. - Head inside, keep thinking on it and I will see you later on.- OK.
0:37:55 > 0:37:59A pleasant surprise there. I think Barbara does like it.
0:37:59 > 0:38:06Terry was a bit shocked by the price, but even the price isn't winning him over. Will Barbara win?
0:38:23 > 0:38:26What will they think of the size?
0:38:26 > 0:38:30This house has got nice, good-sized rooms. I like the kitchen.
0:38:30 > 0:38:33Very nice lounge. Comfortable.
0:38:33 > 0:38:38- Our furniture would fit in.- Yeah. - It's nice to have a log fire.- Yeah.
0:38:38 > 0:38:44The garden is a good size, not overlooked. The location is quite nice for me
0:38:44 > 0:38:48because I want to be by the sea.
0:38:49 > 0:38:54Hello, you two. I was just enjoying the sunshine! Seen enough now?
0:38:54 > 0:38:58- Yes.- Good. A lot more to do. Let's go.- OK.
0:39:09 > 0:39:15Terry and Barbara have a great passion for birds and currently own three talkative parrots.
0:39:15 > 0:39:17So we sent them off to nearby Wingham Wildlife Park,
0:39:17 > 0:39:22which offers a hands-on experience with a wide range of animals and birds.
0:39:22 > 0:39:27They're here to meet zookeeper Tony Binskin, to learn more about these colourful characters.
0:39:31 > 0:39:34Right then, this is Alfie. Come on then, Alfie.
0:39:34 > 0:39:35Out you come.
0:39:35 > 0:39:38He's a bit persistent about coming out. There we go.
0:39:38 > 0:39:41If you put your arm out I'll put him on there.
0:39:41 > 0:39:44There we go, put your arm round him, that's it, nice and close.
0:39:44 > 0:39:47You love that, don't you?
0:39:47 > 0:39:48You're gorgeous, aren't you?
0:39:48 > 0:39:51- Cockatoo love to be stroked. - Beautiful.
0:39:51 > 0:39:55- If you look underneath, she's got a lovely pink crest. - Look at that.
0:39:55 > 0:39:58Beautiful colouring, yeah.
0:39:58 > 0:40:01Do you think it's cruel to keep parrots in a cold climate?
0:40:01 > 0:40:06No. They grow in another down, they "weather in," they call it.
0:40:06 > 0:40:09And they find it ever so easy to sort themselves out.
0:40:09 > 0:40:13As long as they've got an indoor quarters and an outdoor quarters they do OK.
0:40:13 > 0:40:15The cockatoo seem happy enough.
0:40:15 > 0:40:19Next, it's time to get acquainted with some birds of prey.
0:40:19 > 0:40:21Marcus Lloyd-Parker explains how to handle them.
0:40:21 > 0:40:25OK, this is Slug. Now, Slug's a bit of a cheeky chap,
0:40:25 > 0:40:27I've had Slug's dad for 15 years now.
0:40:27 > 0:40:29What I'm going to do is step him on to your hand.
0:40:29 > 0:40:32Hold your hand nice and level and straight, make a perch for me.
0:40:32 > 0:40:34Going to step him back, very gently.
0:40:34 > 0:40:38He's very chatty and talkative at the moment.
0:40:38 > 0:40:42OK, just keep it tidy. We're just going to put the leash up on the fingers there.
0:40:42 > 0:40:44If you can just close your hand for me there.
0:40:44 > 0:40:47And if he jumps around, don't let go. There we go.
0:40:47 > 0:40:51Is this a hunting bird or here for show?
0:40:51 > 0:40:54This particular bird is a hunting bird, used for catching rabbits.
0:40:54 > 0:40:57All the birds here are used for the educational side of things.
0:40:57 > 0:41:01Lots of handling, close up things. Some birds here go into schools as well.
0:41:01 > 0:41:07Every bird here has a different job, be it hunting or flying, doing the demonstrations.
0:41:07 > 0:41:10Everyone has their own little thing to do, really.
0:41:10 > 0:41:14With more space in the countryside, I wouldn't be surprised if Terry and Barbara
0:41:14 > 0:41:17expand their family of feathered friends soon.
0:41:21 > 0:41:25Barbara and Terry's budget may not stretch to something as grand as this,
0:41:25 > 0:41:32but it's time for the mystery property. I want to deliver them something with style and panache,
0:41:32 > 0:41:39but they may have to compromise a little bit on the size and one other factor - it's attached.
0:41:42 > 0:41:49- Time for the mystery property. How are you feeling?- Quite excited. - Nervous.- Looking forward to it.
0:41:49 > 0:41:55- What would be ideal? - Rural positioning.- Yes.- Detached.
0:41:55 > 0:41:59- We're coming up to retirement. - I really would like detached.
0:41:59 > 0:42:03Well, it's a mystery property. We'll shake things up a bit.
0:42:03 > 0:42:07- No promises.- No. - Let's see how we do.
0:42:07 > 0:42:14For our mystery property, we travel 10 miles north west of Canterbury to the outskirts of Faversham.
0:42:14 > 0:42:18This market town is a real treasure trove of heritage.
0:42:18 > 0:42:25It's home to Britain's oldest brewery, an array of listed buildings and tourists shops on tap.
0:42:25 > 0:42:28Plenty here for the whole family.
0:42:28 > 0:42:34They said they DIDN'T want attached. Oh, dear. The mystery house is semi-detached.
0:42:34 > 0:42:38I hope the features of these beautiful stables win them over.
0:42:38 > 0:42:44Walking, walking, walking. Not much longer, I promise. Here.
0:42:44 > 0:42:49- So, are you ready?- Yes. - Mystery property.- OK. - Three, two, one, open your eyes.
0:42:49 > 0:42:52- Wow.- Wow!
0:42:52 > 0:42:58- Oh, my God, yeah. - So, just to put you in the picture, it's not everything you see here!
0:42:58 > 0:43:03- I realise that!- It is quite impressive. There's houses there.
0:43:03 > 0:43:09We've got the stables. Dates back to 1850. It was only converted from stables back in 2000.
0:43:09 > 0:43:14- Lovely.- Yes, speechless.- It's really beautiful.- It is.- Gorgeous.
0:43:14 > 0:43:19- Stunning setting.- I'm gobsmacked. - You don't know what to say!
0:43:19 > 0:43:25While you collect your thoughts, let's go inside and have a look. It just gets better.
0:43:25 > 0:43:28'They seem really taken by this house.
0:43:28 > 0:43:31'My hunch might be spot on!'
0:43:31 > 0:43:37- It's an old stable, but it's got a farmhouse feel. Straight into the kitchen here.- Look at that.
0:43:37 > 0:43:42- That is fantastic! - Come and have a look.- Absolutely.
0:43:42 > 0:43:48- Yeah, that is...brilliant.- Lovely. - I never expected to see anything like this.- Lovely tops.
0:43:48 > 0:43:55- I thought you'd like the granite. - It's what I've got already. Lovely. - We've got limestone floors
0:43:55 > 0:44:00- and tiles.- Lovely.- Absolutely. - And the views.- Absolutely lovely.
0:44:00 > 0:44:02Yeah.
0:44:02 > 0:44:04- You're really impressed.- I am.
0:44:04 > 0:44:09- It's lovely. It really is.- Could you picture yourself here?- Definitely.
0:44:09 > 0:44:13- Yeah, certainty. - Would you like to see more?- Yes!
0:44:13 > 0:44:18- There's another room through here. Let's go.- OK.
0:44:20 > 0:44:23Come through here.
0:44:23 > 0:44:26- This is lovely. - TERRY EXHALES
0:44:26 > 0:44:29You look almost emotional, Terry.
0:44:30 > 0:44:34- Do you really like it? - It's lovely.- Oh, guys!
0:44:34 > 0:44:38- Sorry.- It's OK. Do you know what?
0:44:38 > 0:44:44When we first spoke and you said the house you live in, you'd both seen it separately
0:44:44 > 0:44:48- and you had a feeling about it. Is that what's happening now?- Mm.
0:44:48 > 0:44:50Ohh.
0:44:53 > 0:44:55Are you...? Ohh.
0:44:55 > 0:44:57This is good! Good tears!
0:44:57 > 0:45:02- And something you wouldn't have thought of.- No.- Oh, dear.
0:45:02 > 0:45:05Tell me what you're thinking.
0:45:05 > 0:45:09I'm just speechless. It's just gorgeous.
0:45:10 > 0:45:14- It's really gorgeous.- What are you thinking, Terry?- Out of this world.
0:45:14 > 0:45:20- It's brilliant.- And it's something that we just didn't want, actually.
0:45:20 > 0:45:28- That's right!- Yeah. - I'm glad you pointed that out. It is, of course, semi-detached.
0:45:28 > 0:45:33- Yes.- Which was a no-no. - Yeah. But...
0:45:33 > 0:45:36- It's beautiful.- ..it is no more! - Brilliant.
0:45:36 > 0:45:39It is absolutely fantastic. Yeah.
0:45:39 > 0:45:42Yeah, it is.
0:45:42 > 0:45:46- It's such a surprise.- Yeah. - It's taken you by surprise.- Yeah.
0:45:46 > 0:45:51- It certainly has.- Good. Shall we carry on? Are you ready?
0:45:51 > 0:45:56- Come on, then. - Let's keep going.
0:45:56 > 0:46:00'With a reaction like that, this could be a home for them.'
0:46:00 > 0:46:04So... the downstairs family bathroom.
0:46:04 > 0:46:09- Have a quick look in here. - It's a nice size.- It's lovely.- Yes.
0:46:09 > 0:46:14- It's just got a bath down here. Is that OK?- Oh, yes!
0:46:16 > 0:46:21I thought you might be upset there's no shower. Clearly not.
0:46:21 > 0:46:27- No, it's lovely. Absolutely. - It's nice.- So this works for you? - Yes, definitely.- Great. Fantastic.
0:46:27 > 0:46:33Let's look at the rest. 'Will there be anything they don't like?
0:46:33 > 0:46:39'There are three bedrooms, two of which are on the ground floor and very pretty.'
0:46:39 > 0:46:43- Wow. Oh, lovely. - Oh, this is lovely, isn't it?
0:46:43 > 0:46:50- Yeah.- What is it about this room? - I just think it's lovely. - It's just a gorgeous room.- Yeah.
0:46:50 > 0:46:54- It is.- Absolutely, well... - And you've got room for wardrobes.
0:46:54 > 0:46:57- It's ideal.- This is lovely.
0:46:57 > 0:47:02- And it's so peaceful.- Yeah. - Isn't it?- It's lovely.
0:47:02 > 0:47:09'They seem to have been impressed by every room so far. Let's hope that continues in the master.'
0:47:10 > 0:47:13This will be your master bedroom.
0:47:13 > 0:47:18- Oh, it's lovely. That is lovely. - Another lovely room.- Yeah.
0:47:18 > 0:47:25- You're both a little calmer now. - Yes, calmed down!- I'm impressed. You quite like this room?
0:47:25 > 0:47:30- Yes.- Lovely.- Tell me a little bit about what you're thinking.
0:47:30 > 0:47:36What can you say? It's the style of the place altogether. It's...well, breathtaking. Lovely.
0:47:37 > 0:47:43- Absolutely.- I'm still a bit speechless.- What's knocking you for six so much?
0:47:43 > 0:47:48Looking at it from the outside and then coming in and seeing it,
0:47:48 > 0:47:55- it's what I didn't expect it to be like.- So this could be your dream property in the country?
0:47:55 > 0:47:59- Yeah.- You wanted an en suite.- Mm-hm. - Well, how about this?
0:47:59 > 0:48:02Your very own shower room here.
0:48:02 > 0:48:06- Brilliant.- Come on in. Have a look.- Absolutely brilliant.
0:48:06 > 0:48:09- Yeah, fantastic.- Nice size.
0:48:09 > 0:48:13- It's a good size.- Yes, it is. - You've got a stand-up shower there
0:48:13 > 0:48:19- on the landing from your bedroom. - Yeah, out of this world.- Nice. - Fantastic.
0:48:19 > 0:48:26- Nice size.- You could have this bathroom and you have one downstairs!- Fair enough!
0:48:27 > 0:48:31- It's time we looked at that garden.- Yes, OK.
0:48:31 > 0:48:37'I'm really pleased. It looks like the mystery house has been a risk worth taking,
0:48:37 > 0:48:42'but it is attached. I hope the garden won't disappoint.'
0:48:42 > 0:48:47Let's head outside. We're now, obviously, by your front door.
0:48:47 > 0:48:53- Right.- Lovely. - This is the mystery property because it's something you wouldn't choose.
0:48:53 > 0:48:57Let me put you in the picture. We've got three converted stables.
0:48:57 > 0:49:01Your property, one next door and that one.
0:49:01 > 0:49:06Here is the farmhouse. The lord of the manor who owned everything!
0:49:06 > 0:49:13Then we've got the barn conversion. So this is a sort of communal area, although you'd own a bit of it.
0:49:13 > 0:49:17- What do you think?- It's nice. - Yes, it's unusual.
0:49:17 > 0:49:22- It's just so pretty, isn't it? - Not what you were planning.- No.
0:49:22 > 0:49:28- Something you could live with? - Oh, definitely.- If I twisted your arm. I'll show you the rest.
0:49:31 > 0:49:34'Lawned grounds sweep around the property,
0:49:34 > 0:49:39which includes car parking and a workshop to keep Terry happy.'
0:49:39 > 0:49:42- And then behind here, all of this. - Gosh!
0:49:42 > 0:49:47- This is just yours.- Nice.- Yes. Nice size. It's lovely.
0:49:47 > 0:49:52- It's brilliant.- It's working for you?- Yes.- But now...
0:49:52 > 0:49:57- the time has come to talk money. - Yes.- I know it's on your mind, so come over here.
0:49:57 > 0:50:03It's time we had a chat. I know it's been on your mind.
0:50:03 > 0:50:07- It's a gorgeous property.- It is. Really beautiful.- Yes, it is.
0:50:07 > 0:50:13- Unexpected.- Yes, totally. - It's not something you would have looked at.- No.
0:50:13 > 0:50:19It's a mystery property for a reason, so let's talk money. How much do you think it's worth?
0:50:19 > 0:50:24I personally think that it's going to be up over our budget.
0:50:24 > 0:50:28A very difficult one to guess,
0:50:28 > 0:50:33but I would say I quite expect it to be 375.
0:50:33 > 0:50:40- 375, OK. And Barbara? - Yes, I think 365.- 365.- Mm.
0:50:40 > 0:50:47- So right at the top end.- Yes. - Well, it's on the market for £345,000.- Really?
0:50:47 > 0:50:54- That's unbelievable. - It's beautiful.- That's good and that's in our budget.- Yeah.
0:50:54 > 0:50:59- I think a lot of thought has got to go into it, really.- It has.
0:50:59 > 0:51:06- OK, it's time for you to go back inside.- OK.- And start thinking. - Yeah.- And we'll talk later on.
0:51:06 > 0:51:08- OK, then.- Off you go.- Right.
0:51:12 > 0:51:16What a reaction! They do absolutely love the property
0:51:16 > 0:51:22and they were gobsmacked that it is not only within their budget, it's under it. Will they go for it?
0:51:39 > 0:51:45They were clearly overwhelmed as soon as they walked in. Will they take the plunge?
0:51:45 > 0:51:49The first impression of this property just blew me away.
0:51:49 > 0:51:52It was totally unexpected.
0:51:52 > 0:51:55The kitchen blew my mind. Beautiful.
0:51:55 > 0:51:58A nice big chocolate cake in here!
0:51:59 > 0:52:05Then we walked into this lounge and it just blew me away.
0:52:05 > 0:52:10- I think our furniture would fit in nice.- It would, lovely. Fantastic.
0:52:10 > 0:52:12It would work very well for us.
0:52:12 > 0:52:15As a retirement home, it's perfect.
0:52:15 > 0:52:22- It would be lovely to have all the family round for Christmas. - Christmas would be fantastic.
0:52:22 > 0:52:28It's got everything you could possibly want. We've got to think if we want to be adjoined,
0:52:28 > 0:52:31or, as we first said, detached.
0:52:31 > 0:52:36- How are you both?- OK. - Lots to think about now.- Yes.
0:52:36 > 0:52:43- You've seen all of the properties. Let's find somewhere to sit down and chew it over.- OK.- Let's go.
0:52:55 > 0:53:02Barbara and Terry have now seen a real mix of properties, from a country cottage to semi-detached.
0:53:02 > 0:53:05They have a lot to weigh up.
0:53:08 > 0:53:13- Right, guys. We've had a bit of an emotional journey.- Yes.
0:53:13 > 0:53:19- Seen a lot of properties.- Yes. - Let's start at the very beginning with the country cottage.
0:53:19 > 0:53:24- We loved it.- Very much. - We will go back to see it again.
0:53:24 > 0:53:29Really? We haven't even talked about the others! You'll go back?
0:53:29 > 0:53:31- Definitely.- What is it about it?
0:53:31 > 0:53:37- The rural location, definitely. - And the property had been refurbed in good taste.
0:53:37 > 0:53:44- The garden was quite small.- Yes. - So what has grabbed you?- There's only 13 properties in the area.
0:53:44 > 0:53:50- So a really nice area. - OK, so it was a good start. - Yes, it was.- Let's move on.
0:53:50 > 0:53:54Let's talk about the bungalow that we saw next.
0:53:54 > 0:53:56The bungalow was very nice, very well done inside,
0:53:56 > 0:54:00and, well, beautiful garden. You couldn't fault the garden.
0:54:00 > 0:54:02Yeah, it was a lovely property.
0:54:02 > 0:54:06- but it's just the location. - Yeah, purely.
0:54:06 > 0:54:08There was no rural feel to it at all.
0:54:08 > 0:54:11- It was a bit too close to the neighbours.- It was. It was.
0:54:13 > 0:54:18Let's talk about the chalet bungalow. What did you think?
0:54:18 > 0:54:25- That was a lovely bungalow.- Yeah. But it was too big. It's very similar in size to what we've got.
0:54:25 > 0:54:31They were big rooms and nice rooms. The property itself, internally, was very nice indeed.
0:54:31 > 0:54:35- So, finally, then...- Ah. - ..the mystery property.
0:54:35 > 0:54:41- This is something you wouldn't have looked at.- No.- It's out of this world. Still can't describe it
0:54:41 > 0:54:45in words. It was a fantastic property. Absolutely fantastic.
0:54:45 > 0:54:52It was a semi-detached, which we didn't want, but when you look at what it had to offer,
0:54:52 > 0:54:59- you've got to say that it was just out of this world. - The kitchen was to die for.- Yeah.
0:54:59 > 0:55:02- Full credit to the present owners. - Yes.- It was fantastic.
0:55:02 > 0:55:08I didn't expect the kitchen to be like it was, or the lounge.
0:55:08 > 0:55:11I didn't expect three bedrooms, either. Fantastic.
0:55:11 > 0:55:15- We're going to go back there. - For a serious look.
0:55:15 > 0:55:19So we've got two properties that you're going to have another look at. Both in your budget.
0:55:19 > 0:55:25- One at the top end.- Yes.- And the last one, a nice surprise there. - Was well within.
0:55:25 > 0:55:28Well within. So, uh...
0:55:28 > 0:55:34- So next step is a return to the area.- Yes, that's right. Have a good look round.
0:55:34 > 0:55:38OK, but if I have to push you at this moment,
0:55:38 > 0:55:45- which one are the scales tipping in favour of?- I'm still swaying for the country cottage, really.
0:55:45 > 0:55:49But go back, have another look
0:55:49 > 0:55:55- and I don't know... - There's possibilities. - 50/50 for the last one.
0:55:55 > 0:56:01- A strong possibility we've found you your dream home?- Yes, I think so. - Could be.- Definitely.
0:56:01 > 0:56:03Fantastic. I really am pleased.
0:56:03 > 0:56:08Not one, but two properties! Brilliant!
0:56:08 > 0:56:14- Let us know how you get on. It's been an absolute pleasure. - It's been great, really great.
0:56:14 > 0:56:19- Best of luck.- Thank you. - With your escape!
0:56:25 > 0:56:29What a surprise! This is what I absolutely love about this show.
0:56:29 > 0:56:36We show them a mystery property they would never have considered and now it's in their top two!
0:56:36 > 0:56:40They are actually considering it, which means we've done a good job!
0:56:40 > 0:56:46All in all, they are one step closer to achieving their dream of escaping to the country.
0:56:46 > 0:56:50If you long to escape to the country, and would like our help,
0:56:50 > 0:56:54please contact us through our website:
0:57:07 > 0:57:11Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:57:13 > 0:57:15E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk