0:00:02 > 0:00:04Sometimes it's hard to see past the cut-and-thrust of
0:00:04 > 0:00:08the property market - profits, interest rates, returns on investments.
0:00:08 > 0:00:12Not today. We're on a mission to help two newlyweds find their first marital home.
0:00:12 > 0:00:15Ladies and gentlemen, love is in the air.
0:00:15 > 0:00:18And on the airwaves, because this is To Buy Or Not To Buy.
0:00:28 > 0:00:32You're live with Radio TBONTB 200.8.
0:00:32 > 0:00:37Welcome to Love House, the only property show that combines romance and property.
0:00:37 > 0:00:40You know the story - meet a girl, fall in love, get married.
0:00:40 > 0:00:44Then you find a house, start a family and live happily ever after.
0:00:44 > 0:00:48- Sounds smashing, Simon. - It is.- Do you know what can make that scenario better?
0:00:48 > 0:00:53- Tell us. - What if you could spend time in that pad, see if that love nest
0:00:53 > 0:00:58is the perfect place for love needs? Or as we say, try before you buy.
0:00:58 > 0:01:01Today's happy house hunters are Sat and Raj,
0:01:01 > 0:01:05a couple of newlyweds who currently live with Sat's parents in Coventry.
0:01:05 > 0:01:09After a year of wedded bliss, these love birds are looking to put down
0:01:09 > 0:01:15roots and find a love nest that will be their first marital home.
0:01:15 > 0:01:20Sat is an online marketing manager and commutes to Nottingham daily.
0:01:20 > 0:01:25Raj is studying for a PhD in chemistry at university in Birmingham.
0:01:25 > 0:01:30- So you're our newlyweds.- Yes. - How long have you been married?
0:01:30 > 0:01:32Just over a year now.
0:01:32 > 0:01:37- Ahh! So we're on the hunt for the first marital home?- Yes.
0:01:37 > 0:01:41- What's wrong with here? - Currently living with Mum and Dad at the moment.
0:01:41 > 0:01:46It's time to move on and spread our wings.
0:01:46 > 0:01:52- Get your first step on the property ladder.- That's the main thing. - Are you excited?
0:01:52 > 0:01:57Yes, definitely. We're excited, but we've seen quite a few properties, so we need help.
0:01:57 > 0:02:01How many are we talking about? 10, 15?
0:02:01 > 0:02:05Over the last year-and-a-half, about 30-40 houses, I think.
0:02:05 > 0:02:09- Wow!- OK.- Right, hence the reason we're here.
0:02:09 > 0:02:11We're in a modern house.
0:02:11 > 0:02:15Do you want a modern property, is that your main requirement?
0:02:15 > 0:02:16I don't think we mind too much.
0:02:16 > 0:02:21I prefer the older properties, because they have more character,
0:02:21 > 0:02:25they're bigger, but Sat prefers the newer ones. We're in the middle.
0:02:25 > 0:02:27- Is this why you haven't found one so far?- Maybe!
0:02:27 > 0:02:29We're getting a bit picky.
0:02:29 > 0:02:36If you've looked at all these houses, what's been wrong with those so we get it right this time round?
0:02:36 > 0:02:39I think possibly the size of the house isn't right,
0:02:39 > 0:02:42there's no opportunity to extend in future.
0:02:42 > 0:02:45I haven't seen enough potential.
0:02:45 > 0:02:49- How many bedrooms are we looking at? - About three bedrooms.
0:02:49 > 0:02:54As far as downstairs living space is concerned, what rooms have you got in mind in your dream marital home?
0:02:54 > 0:03:00- Let's get passionate, people. - In the nest.- The love nest.
0:03:00 > 0:03:03A big lounge, because we love entertaining and having people over.
0:03:03 > 0:03:08We want somewhere we can have a lot of people in. Sat likes the kitchen.
0:03:08 > 0:03:14Are we looking for a pad for just you two or somewhere perhaps you could extend a family into?
0:03:14 > 0:03:19At the moment, just for the two of us, but somewhere that will grow with us.
0:03:19 > 0:03:23Somewhere with potential to accommodate other people, maybe.
0:03:23 > 0:03:27- So you don't want to have to move on again?- No.
0:03:27 > 0:03:29We want a house we can stay in for a long time.
0:03:29 > 0:03:31Are we keen gardeners?
0:03:31 > 0:03:36We're not, but our parents are, so we can get them in the garden.
0:03:36 > 0:03:39It would be nice to have a nice-sized garden for barbecues.
0:03:39 > 0:03:43- And then eventually, somewhere for the kids to run around.- Exactly.
0:03:43 > 0:03:47What if we found somewhere that needed a bit of work doing on it?
0:03:47 > 0:03:51Yeah, we can get our hands stuck in and get things sorted.
0:03:51 > 0:03:55I smell a project on the horizon.
0:03:55 > 0:03:59- Who's the handy one? - We have a lot of friends and family who are keen to help.
0:03:59 > 0:04:02What areas have we got in mind? Give us some areas we can pinpoint.
0:04:02 > 0:04:10Areas close to the motorway network - Walsgrave, Coventry, Finham...
0:04:10 > 0:04:13Is Coventry the preferred area out of those places?
0:04:13 > 0:04:18Yeah, Coventry is preferred. It would be good if it was close to the motorway network.
0:04:18 > 0:04:20- Is this for work?- Yeah, mainly.
0:04:20 > 0:04:23OK, it's budget time, what are we working with here?
0:04:23 > 0:04:25Say, around 210,000.
0:04:25 > 0:04:29Are you prepared to push that further if we find something spectacular,
0:04:29 > 0:04:31or shall we cap it off at 210?
0:04:31 > 0:04:35We'd like to stay at 210, but if there's something that stands out,
0:04:35 > 0:04:38we'd consider pushing it a little bit further.
0:04:38 > 0:04:41That would only be if there was nothing that needed doing.
0:04:41 > 0:04:46- We've got to consider the additional costs.- Absolutely.
0:04:46 > 0:04:53We had better get going. Let's see if we can find properties in Coventry area they haven't seen yet.
0:04:53 > 0:04:55Cheers, guys.
0:04:58 > 0:05:06I'm not sure about this one. Sat and Raj have looked at 30 to 40 houses over a year-and-a-half period.
0:05:06 > 0:05:11We've got one day to find them three houses, one of which they'll try before they buy.
0:05:11 > 0:05:16We're also finding the home there will become their nest to build a family into.
0:05:16 > 0:05:20Yeah, right. I'm going to find some estate agents. See you later.
0:05:20 > 0:05:24I've got to find someone who knows what they're talking about when it comes to Coventry.
0:05:24 > 0:05:26I know just the lady.
0:05:26 > 0:05:31Today we find ourselves in Coventry, sometimes given a hard time as Birmingham's poor relation,
0:05:31 > 0:05:36but we think Coventry is right to be proud of being the 11th largest city in the UK.
0:05:36 > 0:05:41A thriving and bustling place with a cultural scene that represents its diverse population.
0:05:41 > 0:05:44It was the first twin city in the UK,
0:05:44 > 0:05:50and Volgograd, formerly Stalingrad, in Russia, was the lucky place to be bestowed with the honour.
0:05:50 > 0:05:52There's a redevelopment revolution underway,
0:05:52 > 0:05:57starting with a facelift for the centre to bring it bang up-to-date.
0:05:57 > 0:06:02Let's look at what sort of love nest 210k would get you around the rest of the country.
0:06:02 > 0:06:07What could be more romantic than this charming Grade 2 listed cottage
0:06:07 > 0:06:09in a delightful village in Devon,
0:06:09 > 0:06:12with character features and open fires for those cosy nights?
0:06:12 > 0:06:17I could fall in love with this place, on the market at 210k.
0:06:19 > 0:06:21But what about this thing of beauty?
0:06:21 > 0:06:25I'd say it could be a first marital home befitting any newlyweds.
0:06:25 > 0:06:28Situated in Garden Village area of Hull with loads of space,
0:06:28 > 0:06:31should the pitter-patter of tiny feet come your way,
0:06:31 > 0:06:34this place would be a perfect setting to accommodate them.
0:06:34 > 0:06:36It's 189,995.
0:06:38 > 0:06:43Could two become one in this duplex apartment? Situated in the old Guildhall in Macclesfield,
0:06:43 > 0:06:49this two-bed flat fuses new and old with contemporary fittings complementing beamed ceilings.
0:06:49 > 0:06:54Where better to have a love-in than here? And all for a lovely 209,950.
0:06:58 > 0:07:00That's it from me on BBC Coventry.
0:07:00 > 0:07:05Thank you for being with me. I'll be back tomorrow.
0:07:07 > 0:07:09- Come on in, Johnny.- Great, cheers.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12JOHNNY'S VOICE ON RADIO
0:07:12 > 0:07:15Camilla, thank you for spending time to see me.
0:07:15 > 0:07:19- No problem.- Could you turn that off? It's annoying.
0:07:19 > 0:07:25That's better. Right, we're looking for love's young dream.
0:07:25 > 0:07:29You're the voice of Coventry for a lot of people.
0:07:29 > 0:07:34Well, I wouldn't like to say, but I'm a Coventry kid and it means loads to me. I'm passionate about the city.
0:07:34 > 0:07:38They're looking to buy their first property together.
0:07:38 > 0:07:42- Ahh!- It's a lovely ahh. Pressure is on, really.
0:07:42 > 0:07:46Everybody knows it's synonymous with Lady Godiva riding naked
0:07:46 > 0:07:51through the streets, the cathedral, the bombing of the place in the war, but what else is the city about?
0:07:51 > 0:07:54The thing about Coventry is it's a friendly city.
0:07:54 > 0:07:59It's welcomed loads of people. For over 100 years, people have been migrating and settling here
0:07:59 > 0:08:03and it doesn't matter where you're from or what you do, you'll be welcome.
0:08:03 > 0:08:06I'll give you a brief resume of what they're after.
0:08:06 > 0:08:10Three-bedroom, they don't really care what style,
0:08:10 > 0:08:14- they prefer period properties, but aren't really fussed.- OK.
0:08:14 > 0:08:17They're keen to get a place with good schools in the area,
0:08:17 > 0:08:21because they're hoping this will be their family home for years to come.
0:08:21 > 0:08:25I went to Finham Park comprehensive school, which is the best school in Cov.
0:08:25 > 0:08:31Other good schools round and about. We've got loads of parks, open space.
0:08:31 > 0:08:35Even though it's a city, with a strong urban landscape,
0:08:35 > 0:08:39there's loads of parkland to enjoy, loads of leisure time.
0:08:39 > 0:08:43It's the home of the mighty Sky Blues, Coventry City Football Club.
0:08:43 > 0:08:46Budget, £210,000.
0:08:46 > 0:08:50- We've got a couple of properties that might be suitable. - Let's have a look.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53We've got a three-bed semi-detached.
0:08:53 > 0:08:57It's recently refitted, a new kitchen and bathroom.
0:08:57 > 0:09:00- And that's in the budget, isn't it? - Yep.
0:09:00 > 0:09:02This episode is all about love.
0:09:02 > 0:09:05We've got our newlyweds buying their first marital home.
0:09:05 > 0:09:09Romance is a bit of a theme we've got running throughout the show.
0:09:09 > 0:09:11It's a great city, full of romance.
0:09:11 > 0:09:14Look at the cathedral. What a place that would be to fall in love.
0:09:14 > 0:09:18Within half a mile, there's about five different primary schools.
0:09:18 > 0:09:20All got good reputations.
0:09:20 > 0:09:22Transport links?
0:09:22 > 0:09:30Not bad - close to the M69, the A45, A46 and there are links to the M40 and M42.
0:09:30 > 0:09:34Also, people associate us just with the war, don't they?
0:09:34 > 0:09:38Reparations. We were bombed and rebuilt. This is a city of change.
0:09:38 > 0:09:43It's a city on the move. It will be a really successful city. 20 or 30 years, it's the new London.
0:09:43 > 0:09:48- Thank you very much indeed. - Thanks very much. Bye-bye.
0:09:48 > 0:09:50'Thanks very much, really appreciate it.'
0:09:50 > 0:09:54Lovely to meet you. Take care. Bye-bye.
0:09:54 > 0:09:59Well, Johnny, I'm feeling confident about the properties today.
0:09:59 > 0:10:01I know our love birds are a picky pair,
0:10:01 > 0:10:04but they're going to love this property.
0:10:04 > 0:10:07It's a traditional family home with loads of living space,
0:10:07 > 0:10:11off-road parking, a fantastic location, what can I say?
0:10:11 > 0:10:12What have you been up to?
0:10:12 > 0:10:17- Lovely. My choice will be a perfect wild card.- Whoa! No, no!
0:10:17 > 0:10:19I've got the perfect wild card here.
0:10:19 > 0:10:22Well, this one, traditional, it needs some work.
0:10:22 > 0:10:25Let's have a look, let's have a look.
0:10:25 > 0:10:29Actually, that would make a fantastic wild card,
0:10:29 > 0:10:32but then again, look at that.
0:10:32 > 0:10:35That's got "wild card" written all over it as well.
0:10:35 > 0:10:40Tell you what, how about this? Let's spin things on their head.
0:10:40 > 0:10:44You like that one as well as me. Let's make that the joint choice
0:10:44 > 0:10:48- and have two wild cards.- Nice. - You liking it?
0:10:48 > 0:10:50Let's go straight to the joint choice.
0:10:53 > 0:10:59This is it, Simon. After viewing 30 or 40 properties, the pressure is well and truly on.
0:10:59 > 0:11:03Could our joint choice be just what Sat and Raj have been looking for?
0:11:03 > 0:11:07With our two highly tuned property brains in action, can we possibly fail?
0:11:07 > 0:11:10OK, you've seen that many houses.
0:11:10 > 0:11:14- Have you seen this one yet? - No.- Not this one, no.
0:11:14 > 0:11:16Result in itself. First impressions?
0:11:16 > 0:11:21- First impressions are really good. I really like it.- Lovely house.
0:11:21 > 0:11:24Good character about it. A really nice area as well.
0:11:24 > 0:11:27Does it feel like somewhere you can see as a marital home?
0:11:27 > 0:11:30From the outside, definitely. It looks really nice.
0:11:30 > 0:11:35- What about you, Sat, can you see yourself settled here? - It's got a really big front garden.
0:11:35 > 0:11:41- I like it.- This is our litmus test, because you've seen so many houses,
0:11:41 > 0:11:44so we think you might be a bit choosy, and we think this ticks every box.
0:11:44 > 0:11:48You like the outside, let's see what do you think inside. Enjoy.
0:11:50 > 0:11:53- Well, they haven't seen it. - Which is a result. Let's go.
0:11:58 > 0:12:01- I'm enjoying this joint choice thing.- I don't like it.
0:12:01 > 0:12:05- I hate having to admit I agree with you.- There's plenty of time for us to argue.
0:12:09 > 0:12:13- It's nice. - It's a good space, actually.
0:12:13 > 0:12:15- First thing you've given then, mate? - A good space.
0:12:15 > 0:12:18Sorry, WE - this is the joint choice.
0:12:18 > 0:12:22- Shall we go into this one?- Yeah.
0:12:25 > 0:12:27- Oh, wow!- We've got a wow, mate.
0:12:27 > 0:12:30- This is nice.- A really good size.
0:12:30 > 0:12:34I like what they've done with the floor with the laminate flooring.
0:12:35 > 0:12:41- What would you say?- About what? - A lovely, clean, laminate floor.
0:12:41 > 0:12:45I'd say it's a contemporary flooring that brings the property right up-to-date.
0:12:47 > 0:12:52I'm not sure about the colour. I like the size of the room. This is a really good.
0:12:52 > 0:12:55- It's good they've got the dining bit here linked on.- Big windows as well.
0:12:55 > 0:13:00It brings in a lot of light from outside from the front and back.
0:13:00 > 0:13:04- The patio door is quite big.- Oh, wow.
0:13:04 > 0:13:06It's a really nice view of the street.
0:13:08 > 0:13:12You can't hear the traffic and you get a good view of the garden.
0:13:12 > 0:13:15You've got a nice frontage to this place. A lovely front garden.
0:13:15 > 0:13:17That's lost in a lot of properties.
0:13:17 > 0:13:19Too many people pave over completely,
0:13:19 > 0:13:23but you've room for off-road parking and still a traditional front garden.
0:13:23 > 0:13:29And as Sat says, double glazing means this road can be busy, but you can't hear a thing.
0:13:34 > 0:13:36This is nice. What do you think?
0:13:36 > 0:13:39I like the work surfaces and the cupboards.
0:13:39 > 0:13:46- Looks like they've recently refitted it.- Yeah, it's really nice. I love the tiles.
0:13:46 > 0:13:49- There's a "but" coming. - It's a bit narrow.
0:13:49 > 0:13:51It's a bit long and narrow.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54- A little bit. - What is it?- A galley kitchen.
0:13:54 > 0:13:56It's not narrow, it's a galley kitchen!
0:13:56 > 0:14:01Lots of light in here. A skylight at the top there.
0:14:01 > 0:14:03Quite a lot of windows and a door to the back.
0:14:03 > 0:14:06They noted why the extension works so well.
0:14:06 > 0:14:09- Pray, tell.- Natural light.
0:14:09 > 0:14:13Putting the skylight in means you've flooded light into the kitchen,
0:14:13 > 0:14:14but also into the room behind.
0:14:14 > 0:14:18Is this the kind of place you see yourself cooking in?
0:14:18 > 0:14:22Yeah, I really like the kitchen. But it's really narrow and that concerns me.
0:14:22 > 0:14:26When we have people over and we're in the kitchen together,
0:14:26 > 0:14:29it's going to be quite difficult to get past one another.
0:14:29 > 0:14:32That's the only thing I'm worried about.
0:14:32 > 0:14:35Funnily enough, I'm always in the kitchen at parties.
0:14:35 > 0:14:38- Yeah? Is that where the drinks are? - Never mind that.
0:14:38 > 0:14:41- Shall we keep looking?- Yep.- OK.
0:14:43 > 0:14:47Johnny, ground floor has gone very well.
0:14:47 > 0:14:48It's gone pretty well.
0:14:48 > 0:14:52- Don't get too carried away. Let's play it cool. - OK, playing it cool.
0:14:52 > 0:14:57- I like the banister. - Nice colour.- Yeah.
0:14:57 > 0:14:59It's all carpeted as well.
0:14:59 > 0:15:01What's in here? Oh, the bathroom.
0:15:01 > 0:15:04It's nice.
0:15:04 > 0:15:06A bit on the small side.
0:15:06 > 0:15:10It's a little bit small. It hasn't got a power shower. That's a shame.
0:15:10 > 0:15:13There's a shower attachment.
0:15:13 > 0:15:15They've recently refurbished it.
0:15:15 > 0:15:18- I think so.- Potentially similar lighting to the kitchen.
0:15:18 > 0:15:24- The lights are nice.- It could have been a bit bigger.- A little bit.
0:15:24 > 0:15:28As far as their requirements are concerned, it ticks every box.
0:15:28 > 0:15:33They wanted a nice family home, perfect for them with space to grow.
0:15:33 > 0:15:36Sorry, mate, as we've gone up, I feel it's going downhill.
0:15:36 > 0:15:40- Oh, wow!- Definitely a girl's room.
0:15:40 > 0:15:42This is every girl's dream.
0:15:42 > 0:15:46Every girl's dream! That, my friend, is a positive remark.
0:15:46 > 0:15:48What kind of room do you think this is?
0:15:48 > 0:15:53This could be an ideal guest room.
0:15:53 > 0:15:57- The main second bedroom for guests and family.- Definitely.
0:15:57 > 0:16:00Ideal guest bedroom? The number of people coming to their parties,
0:16:00 > 0:16:02- will they all fit in there? - I don't know.
0:16:02 > 0:16:05- Shall we move on? - Yeah, let's keep going.
0:16:09 > 0:16:11This is the master bedroom.
0:16:12 > 0:16:14- Nice as well.- It's a good size.
0:16:14 > 0:16:16I like the neutral colours.
0:16:16 > 0:16:20Yeah, I think this is how we'd do it, isn't it?
0:16:20 > 0:16:23You don't need to decorate, then. It's already done for you.
0:16:23 > 0:16:25This is really nice, Sat.
0:16:25 > 0:16:29- A beautiful view.- It looks like such a nice neighbourhood.
0:16:29 > 0:16:33Would we put you anywhere bad? Of course it's a good neighbourhood!
0:16:33 > 0:16:36I like that you're not facing other houses. There's a bit of space.
0:16:36 > 0:16:41A sense of openness as you look out, because you haven't got other houses in front of you.
0:16:42 > 0:16:44- Looks like the final bedroom.- Yeah.
0:16:44 > 0:16:45What do you think?
0:16:45 > 0:16:49It's a tad smaller than the others.
0:16:49 > 0:16:53For this style of property, you're going to get two double bedrooms and a single.
0:16:53 > 0:16:57That's the norm. That's the standard footprint of these properties.
0:16:57 > 0:17:00You can fit a single bed and a wardrobe in.
0:17:00 > 0:17:04We could always have it as an office for you.
0:17:04 > 0:17:08- Maybe an office, or possibly a nursery.- Maybe.
0:17:08 > 0:17:11It's another nice room, I think.
0:17:11 > 0:17:15- Shall we speak to the guys?- Yep.
0:17:15 > 0:17:18These two are really choosy, and that went well.
0:17:18 > 0:17:20- Do we believe them?- No.
0:17:23 > 0:17:28- Right then, you've had a good look around the joint choice. How was it? - I really liked it.
0:17:28 > 0:17:33- I like the location. - Marital home potential?
0:17:33 > 0:17:35- A good chance, maybe.- Maybe.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38It's a good house now, but there's scope to go up into the roof,
0:17:38 > 0:17:43because these older properties have large attics. Next door put a dormer in.
0:17:43 > 0:17:48If you did have kids, you have the scope to put a bigger bathroom on the first floor
0:17:48 > 0:17:52and create another bedroom on the second floor, giving you more space.
0:17:52 > 0:17:56You mention location. Location-wise, we think this place is perfect.
0:17:56 > 0:18:02You need to commute onto the motorway, that's not far away. And, Raj, leave the car at home.
0:18:02 > 0:18:06There's a mainline station a mile away. Location-wise, perfect.
0:18:06 > 0:18:08We can't believe this.
0:18:08 > 0:18:13We were worried, we thought you were choosy. And you love the place.
0:18:13 > 0:18:14Have we got it in one?
0:18:14 > 0:18:17Not just yet.
0:18:17 > 0:18:21Maybe we can persuade you with the cost of this place.
0:18:21 > 0:18:24It's guess the price time. Who's going first?
0:18:24 > 0:18:28- You can.- He's going to steal my idea.
0:18:28 > 0:18:31Maybe around the 195 mark.
0:18:31 > 0:18:33OK. Sat?
0:18:35 > 0:18:37I think about 190.
0:18:37 > 0:18:42- This place is on the market for 209,950.- I'm quite surprised.
0:18:42 > 0:18:44I thought it would be a bit less.
0:18:44 > 0:18:49It's in a good area, but the current state of the market, we could shave a bit off that.
0:18:49 > 0:18:52I told you it had gone too well. They're fussy!
0:18:52 > 0:18:56Let's see if we can do better with my choice, property number two. This way.
0:19:00 > 0:19:04It's stop two, but my wild card choice for today.
0:19:04 > 0:19:11Will it make them swoon with its combination of a cracking location and bundles of renovation potential?
0:19:11 > 0:19:13It's not my idea of a match made in heaven.
0:19:13 > 0:19:17I really don't know if your property will be a case of happily ever after.
0:19:17 > 0:19:22OK, then, property number one didn't quite go according to plan.
0:19:22 > 0:19:26I've brought you to this tree-lined avenue for property number two.
0:19:26 > 0:19:30- What you think? - It's nice, really nice.- Yeah.
0:19:30 > 0:19:32Come on, what are you thinking?
0:19:32 > 0:19:35It's nice. I like it. I like the area.
0:19:35 > 0:19:37- Good area?- Yes.
0:19:37 > 0:19:39Traditional, semi, bay-fronted property.
0:19:39 > 0:19:42I like that, the estate agent in you, there.
0:19:42 > 0:19:45You seem a bit quiet, the pair of you.
0:19:45 > 0:19:49No, we're optimistic on this one.
0:19:49 > 0:19:50Let's see what's inside.
0:19:50 > 0:19:56Just to clarify, you said you've got plenty of friends and family into decorating.
0:19:56 > 0:20:00- Keep their numbers handy! See you in a bit.- In you go.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06OK. This is a proper wild card.
0:20:06 > 0:20:08It's got a garden to match.
0:20:08 > 0:20:09This is nice.
0:20:09 > 0:20:13Yeah, a bit bigger entrance than the first one.
0:20:13 > 0:20:15It's a bit dated, but a good size.
0:20:15 > 0:20:19Probably needs a bit of work on the paper and carpets.
0:20:19 > 0:20:22The good thing is, they didn't go, "Ugh, what's this?"
0:20:22 > 0:20:25- Looking through the fact it needs modernising.- Yeah.
0:20:25 > 0:20:27This must be the front room.
0:20:27 > 0:20:29- Yeah.- What do you think?
0:20:29 > 0:20:31Really dated.
0:20:31 > 0:20:33An elderly couple, maybe, living here.
0:20:33 > 0:20:36- Yeah.- Similar with the hallway.
0:20:36 > 0:20:40We could change the carpets and give it a lick of paint, maybe.
0:20:40 > 0:20:44Would you be tempted to knock this wall through to the next room?
0:20:44 > 0:20:47- Depends what's on the other side of the wall!- We'll find out.
0:20:47 > 0:20:51Good point. What if there isn't a room on the other side and you knock into the garden?
0:20:51 > 0:20:54- No good for anybody, that. - No, look first.
0:20:54 > 0:20:57I really like the windows, really nice.
0:20:57 > 0:20:59These are massive windows, actually.
0:20:59 > 0:21:01A lot of light in the room.
0:21:01 > 0:21:07- A bit of condensation, that might need some work or maybe need replacing.- Maybe.
0:21:07 > 0:21:11Those bay windows are a lovely feature of the front room. Loads of light.
0:21:11 > 0:21:16Some of the seals have gone on the double glazing, but replace those, you have a lovely bay window.
0:21:19 > 0:21:24- The back room.- A really good size. - Lovely, actually.
0:21:24 > 0:21:26Again, it needs work.
0:21:26 > 0:21:28They said they didn't mind handiwork.
0:21:28 > 0:21:30Which is a good job, because the place needs loads.
0:21:30 > 0:21:33- But it hasn't fazed them. - No.- They're positive.
0:21:33 > 0:21:35Embracing the opportunity.
0:21:35 > 0:21:38We could knock through from the other room.
0:21:38 > 0:21:41If you it knocked through, it would be quite big. A decent width as well.
0:21:41 > 0:21:43- Definitely.- Get rid of this.
0:21:43 > 0:21:45That would have to go!
0:21:45 > 0:21:47Everything needs redecorating.
0:21:47 > 0:21:52- Maybe a bit of building work, but there's potential.- Definitely.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57- Whoa!- This is a shock.
0:21:57 > 0:22:02- 1940s style.- Yeah. OK, the kitchen needs completely ripping out.
0:22:02 > 0:22:06Yes, the kitchen is not what you'd call all-singing, all-dancing.
0:22:06 > 0:22:08It wants a bit of work.
0:22:08 > 0:22:09I'd keep the tiles, though.
0:22:09 > 0:22:12- You like those retro tiles? - I love them.
0:22:12 > 0:22:14Quite narrow, isn't it?
0:22:14 > 0:22:19- It's really strange that there's a window there.- Bit of a weird layout on this one.
0:22:19 > 0:22:20What are you thinking?
0:22:20 > 0:22:27Take that wall down, open it up to a lovely kitchen-diner entertaining room. Fantastic.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29I'm liking your thinking.
0:22:29 > 0:22:32- It could be worked on. - Shall we see what this is?
0:22:34 > 0:22:36- A lot of space here. - I wonder what this is.
0:22:36 > 0:22:39Like an add-on to the back of the garage?
0:22:39 > 0:22:45- I guess so.- This may have been the garage and they halved it.- Maybe.
0:22:45 > 0:22:47They've got a toilet there, I think.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50- Is that the toilet? - It says there's a toilet.
0:22:54 > 0:22:56Yes.
0:22:56 > 0:22:59Cosy toilet there!
0:22:59 > 0:23:01It's a cosy toilet.
0:23:01 > 0:23:07There's potential. You could actually smash that out and make this the kitchen.
0:23:07 > 0:23:11That's the difference between subtlety and destruction. I was gonna knock that wall down.
0:23:11 > 0:23:14- They were like, "Smash it!" - Smash it!
0:23:14 > 0:23:17Yeah, but it's gonna be a lot of work.
0:23:17 > 0:23:19I'd have to put my hand in my pocket a bit further.
0:23:19 > 0:23:21- Shall we go upstairs?- Yep.
0:23:23 > 0:23:25I wonder what's up here.
0:23:25 > 0:23:27Probably bedrooms!
0:23:29 > 0:23:33- Got a window for extra light. - That's nice.
0:23:33 > 0:23:35Ah, the bathroom.
0:23:37 > 0:23:39- Again, a bit on the small side.- Yeah.
0:23:39 > 0:23:42Different layout to house number one.
0:23:42 > 0:23:45- Needs a lot of modernisation. - It is a bit tight.
0:23:45 > 0:23:46Some advice, Sat, my friend.
0:23:46 > 0:23:52Properties like this, because of the size of the upstairs bedrooms, a lot of people pinch a foot or two
0:23:52 > 0:23:55from the adjoining bedroom to make the bathroom bigger.
0:23:55 > 0:23:59- You don't take much away from the other bedroom.- That was quite clever, for you!
0:23:59 > 0:24:00Quite a bit of work.
0:24:00 > 0:24:02Gonna have to rip it all out.
0:24:02 > 0:24:05Whoa! Raj just wants to knock everything out.
0:24:05 > 0:24:07Shall we look in the bedroom?
0:24:07 > 0:24:08Yeah.
0:24:11 > 0:24:15- This isn't a bad size. - It's a good size.
0:24:15 > 0:24:18Again, probably needs... Similar to downstairs.
0:24:18 > 0:24:21Change the carpets and gas fires.
0:24:21 > 0:24:25Definitely. I would knock this out.
0:24:25 > 0:24:29Knock the shelves out, the cupboards. Start again with a blank canvas.
0:24:29 > 0:24:33But once we got rid of everything, it would be a decent-sized room.
0:24:33 > 0:24:35To be fair, they have to try hard.
0:24:35 > 0:24:37There's nothing they can pick out as a feature and love.
0:24:37 > 0:24:41The size is there. Can we make it our own?
0:24:41 > 0:24:45Take the things out of the corner and all this here.
0:24:45 > 0:24:47- What is that in the corner? - Not sure.
0:24:51 > 0:24:56I think it might have been where the boiler is. Maybe that will have to move.
0:24:56 > 0:24:58- Yeah.- Maybe downstairs.
0:24:58 > 0:25:01It's the old boiler and hot water cylinder cupboard.
0:25:01 > 0:25:02Oh, that old feature.
0:25:02 > 0:25:05- Traditional.- Glory days.
0:25:05 > 0:25:07- I remember. You wouldn't.- No.
0:25:07 > 0:25:09Shall we look at the view?
0:25:13 > 0:25:15- A nice garden.- What, nice garden?
0:25:15 > 0:25:18Next door.
0:25:18 > 0:25:20- Oh, next door.- Yeah.
0:25:20 > 0:25:23- But it tells you what this could be. - A before and after.
0:25:23 > 0:25:26It's next door's garden we're looking at, it's our garden
0:25:26 > 0:25:29- we'd have to think about. - It's a good size.
0:25:29 > 0:25:32- OK. Keep looking?- Yes.
0:25:35 > 0:25:37Ah, so this is the master bedroom.
0:25:37 > 0:25:40- Mmm-hmm.- Again, good size.
0:25:40 > 0:25:42I love the windows in this house.
0:25:42 > 0:25:47- Quite low in the bedroom. - Yeah, but still big.
0:25:47 > 0:25:48I love that in older properties.
0:25:48 > 0:25:52Bedroom one has the big bay window to the front as well.
0:25:52 > 0:25:55A pub opposite for you, while I'm in the kitchen.
0:25:55 > 0:25:58I preferred the view in the last house that we saw.
0:25:58 > 0:26:01Hasn't got the same outlook the joint choice had.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04- Yeah, but... - Slightly bigger property. The plot overall is bigger.
0:26:06 > 0:26:08Sat, this one needs a lot of work!
0:26:08 > 0:26:10- The last bedroom.- Yeah.
0:26:12 > 0:26:13Come on, Raj.
0:26:13 > 0:26:17You said you had the family and friends to help you do this place.
0:26:17 > 0:26:21Now we've seen all the rooms, what do you think?
0:26:21 > 0:26:23I think it's got a lot of potential.
0:26:23 > 0:26:25I like the area.
0:26:25 > 0:26:27I like the house from outside,
0:26:27 > 0:26:29but I think it's going to cost a lot to do it up.
0:26:29 > 0:26:31I think there's a lot of potential.
0:26:31 > 0:26:34- Shall we see what the guys are saying?- Yes.
0:26:34 > 0:26:37OK, it's got potential. I have a few more tricks up my sleeve.
0:26:37 > 0:26:40- Have you, now? - Come on.- If we can find our way out!
0:26:43 > 0:26:45You've had a good look round my choice.
0:26:45 > 0:26:51Let's be honest, we know it needs a lot of work, but it's a house with bags of potential.
0:26:51 > 0:26:54Question is, is this somewhere you can envisage yourselves
0:26:54 > 0:26:56doing the work and turning it into your marital home?
0:26:58 > 0:27:00Speechless.
0:27:00 > 0:27:03- Great sign. - I think potential is the right word.
0:27:03 > 0:27:07It has got a lot of potential and we can see past what there is now.
0:27:07 > 0:27:11Downstairs, there's definitely a lot of potential.
0:27:11 > 0:27:16Knocking things down, knocking through things, changing carpets, walls, etc.
0:27:16 > 0:27:20- I think that could look amazing.- Yes.
0:27:20 > 0:27:22Upstairs, more of a let-down.
0:27:22 > 0:27:24The size of the bathroom, the small bedroom.
0:27:24 > 0:27:28Something you can't really change without getting really involved in.
0:27:28 > 0:27:31The joy you'll find in this property is, under the carpets
0:27:31 > 0:27:36there's original floorboards, there's original balustrades on the stairs.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38The original doors are still there, panelled in.
0:27:38 > 0:27:43- There's period gems concealed throughout this property. - One more thing to bear in mind.
0:27:43 > 0:27:48One of the best primary schools in Coventry is literally round the corner.
0:27:48 > 0:27:51Planning for the future. We care.
0:27:51 > 0:27:53Yes! We do care.
0:27:53 > 0:27:55Guess the price time.
0:27:55 > 0:27:59That makes all the difference with this place. Who's going first?
0:27:59 > 0:28:00I think it's your turn, Sat.
0:28:00 > 0:28:02I think I'll go first this time.
0:28:02 > 0:28:07I think for this, talking about 210,000.
0:28:07 > 0:28:11- OK. - Straight to the top of the budget.
0:28:11 > 0:28:16I think a bit less. Around 190,000.
0:28:16 > 0:28:19OK. So, technically, this is a draw.
0:28:19 > 0:28:22This property's on the market for 199,950.
0:28:22 > 0:28:24No, Raj wins.
0:28:24 > 0:28:26By 50 quid? Congratulations!
0:28:26 > 0:28:27A win's a win.
0:28:27 > 0:28:31But now, we might just see the best house of the day, my choice.
0:28:31 > 0:28:33This way. Come on.
0:28:36 > 0:28:40Yes, we might, as my wild card today is all about the future.
0:28:40 > 0:28:44This new-build place is built to high ecological standards.
0:28:44 > 0:28:47So not only could it play
0:28:47 > 0:28:51an important part of Sat and Raj's future, but all of our futures.
0:28:51 > 0:28:54Is that not a bit heavy for our light-hearted property show?
0:28:54 > 0:28:57I like to offer more than bricks and mortar.
0:28:57 > 0:28:59Right on, Simon.
0:29:00 > 0:29:06Right, my choice. I've given up trying to find a nice semi with a garden to start a family in,
0:29:06 > 0:29:11so I've just thrown all that to one side and brought you down to Electric Wharf.
0:29:11 > 0:29:13This is part of an ongoing regeneration project.
0:29:13 > 0:29:18It's an old power station on the edge of Coventry, five minutes from the city centre.
0:29:18 > 0:29:21I'm thinking of you two, to get you on the property market,
0:29:21 > 0:29:25because I think this could be, possibly, a fantastic investment opportunity.
0:29:25 > 0:29:28- First impressions?- I like it.
0:29:28 > 0:29:33Definitely really different. Different scenery around, I'll be interested to see what's inside.
0:29:33 > 0:29:34Raj, what are you thinking?
0:29:34 > 0:29:38Speechless. Definitely not what I was expecting.
0:29:38 > 0:29:40I'm interested to see what's inside.
0:29:40 > 0:29:43You're a stylish couple and this place is stylish.
0:29:43 > 0:29:45Hopefully it'll tick your boxes.
0:29:45 > 0:29:48- Get inside, guys.- In you go. - Good luck.
0:29:51 > 0:29:55Right, this is all about young love. Join me on the balcony, Juliet.
0:29:55 > 0:29:57- Why am I always Juliet? - Because you are.
0:29:57 > 0:29:59- Wow. This is so exciting.- Mmmm.
0:29:59 > 0:30:02- I like the hallway. It's nice. - Yeah.
0:30:03 > 0:30:05- Oh, this is different.- Yeah.
0:30:05 > 0:30:07- Bedroom downstairs.- Yeah, yeah.
0:30:07 > 0:30:11For a couple that want a conventional house, you've given them something upside-down.
0:30:11 > 0:30:13- It's exciting.- It is.
0:30:13 > 0:30:15Ah, the view is amazing.
0:30:15 > 0:30:20So different actually having a canal outside your bedroom window.
0:30:20 > 0:30:22Yeah, really looks peaceful as well.
0:30:22 > 0:30:24Of course, the canal is right out back.
0:30:24 > 0:30:26This is stylish living I've given you here.
0:30:26 > 0:30:28- This is nice.- The en suite?
0:30:28 > 0:30:30Yeah.
0:30:30 > 0:30:32Nice and new, isn't it?
0:30:32 > 0:30:37- Raj has really gone for this, but Sat is being a little bit reserved, isn't he?- He's holding back.
0:30:37 > 0:30:39- Keep looking?- Yes.
0:30:44 > 0:30:47This is nice. A different kind of landing?
0:30:47 > 0:30:49Yeah, I love this.
0:30:49 > 0:30:52- Oh, it's another bedroom.- Wow.
0:30:52 > 0:30:55- Double bedroom.- Oh, love this. - Ha-ha!
0:30:56 > 0:30:59What do you think of the size of the room?
0:30:59 > 0:31:03Similar to downstairs. Both the same size. Double rooms.
0:31:03 > 0:31:06You have got built-in space as well.
0:31:06 > 0:31:07That's good.
0:31:07 > 0:31:11Don't know where the TV would go. Might want to watch a bit of TV at night, maybe.
0:31:11 > 0:31:15I think downstairs would be the master bedroom because it's got the en suite.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18OK, I'd do it the opposite way round.
0:31:18 > 0:31:22I'd have my guest bedroom on the ground floor, so they've got their own personal en suite.
0:31:22 > 0:31:25Two bedrooms sharing one bathroom. Comfortable for families.
0:31:25 > 0:31:27What we got next?
0:31:27 > 0:31:30The bathroom. This is nice.
0:31:30 > 0:31:32Yeah, I love when it's brand new.
0:31:32 > 0:31:35The tiles and suite are brand new.
0:31:35 > 0:31:38It's quite simple, but I think it works.
0:31:38 > 0:31:42- Definitely got a shower built in, as well.- Much better than the last two houses, isn't it?
0:31:42 > 0:31:44Yeah, it is.
0:31:44 > 0:31:49Here we go, Raj again is loving the bathroom, but Sat is being that little bit reserved.
0:31:49 > 0:31:52Is the bath a bit smaller than normal?
0:31:52 > 0:31:58Raj is embracing the idea of modern contemporary living and Sat is picking holes in everything.
0:31:58 > 0:32:01He still wants his nice, solid semi-detached.
0:32:01 > 0:32:04Is this maybe another third bedroom?
0:32:04 > 0:32:09- Yeah, but it's a good size. Much bigger than the boxrooms we saw in the last two.- Yeah, much bigger.
0:32:09 > 0:32:12It's a good-sized double bedroom!
0:32:12 > 0:32:15Not a boxroom. Get that out your head.
0:32:15 > 0:32:21You could either fit a bed in here as a third room, or maybe a decent size office.
0:32:21 > 0:32:26- Perfect office. - Or a nursery or something, with bunk beds for people when they pop over.
0:32:28 > 0:32:30Looks like a built-in wardrobe, as well.
0:32:32 > 0:32:34That's good. Oh, it's huge!
0:32:34 > 0:32:37Where's the lounge?
0:32:41 > 0:32:43Oh, this kitchen is amazing!
0:32:43 > 0:32:45I love it.
0:32:45 > 0:32:48- This space is gorgeous.- Different.
0:32:48 > 0:32:50This is so us, Sat.
0:32:50 > 0:32:52I can so see us here.
0:32:52 > 0:32:55Exactly, Raj. It is you.
0:32:55 > 0:33:00Love the flooring, love the cabinets, as well. Love the lights.
0:33:00 > 0:33:03- It would look brilliant at night. - Gorgeous.
0:33:03 > 0:33:09- I'm really impressed.- Everything's built in, the fridge, the sink, cooker, extractor fan.
0:33:09 > 0:33:12We've won Sat over. Raj loved it immediately.
0:33:12 > 0:33:15It's taken three floors, but now Sat loves this place.
0:33:15 > 0:33:22This is so nice for when we have people over. We can be cooking and they can have a few drinks.
0:33:22 > 0:33:25- Really well done.- Yeah.
0:33:25 > 0:33:28Raj is just loving it, my friend.
0:33:28 > 0:33:31From an entertaining point of view that room is awesome.
0:33:31 > 0:33:35I love the difference in the size of ceilings, as well.
0:33:35 > 0:33:37This is such a lovely feature, as well.
0:33:37 > 0:33:42You've got that wicked kitchen-dining entertainment room, and that mezzanine level just above.
0:33:42 > 0:33:45For your office - bit of private time up there out of the way.
0:33:45 > 0:33:48Yeah. Super stylish.
0:33:48 > 0:33:51- This is awesome. - This must be the living room. Can you see us here?
0:33:51 > 0:33:54I can. I love that at the top.
0:33:54 > 0:33:56So much light coming through.
0:33:56 > 0:34:00So much light coming through these huge patio doors.
0:34:00 > 0:34:03I love the way they've decorated it, as well. It goes really well.
0:34:03 > 0:34:06Look at this. This is the central heating radiator.
0:34:06 > 0:34:09- Really different. - Completely different.
0:34:12 > 0:34:15- This is such a lovely space. - What do you think?
0:34:15 > 0:34:18I really like the canal.
0:34:18 > 0:34:20I don't know about that over there.
0:34:20 > 0:34:23The biggest compromise we're asking of them is garden.
0:34:23 > 0:34:26- It's the one thing they won't get. - They've forgotten all about it.
0:34:26 > 0:34:32- They've lost that side of it because of how beautiful your choice was. - Thanks, mate. Cheers.
0:34:32 > 0:34:36I don't think this is very child-friendly. Do you?
0:34:36 > 0:34:37Hmmm. Not sure.
0:34:37 > 0:34:39It's more for a working couple.
0:34:39 > 0:34:43- Fast-paced lifestyle. - Shall we check out upstairs?
0:34:43 > 0:34:45Yeah, let's keep going.
0:34:48 > 0:34:50I love this staircase.
0:34:50 > 0:34:52It's really nice.
0:34:58 > 0:35:00Look at this. More space.
0:35:02 > 0:35:04Oh, wow. Full of surprises.
0:35:04 > 0:35:10Looks like they've used the roof space to get an extra room in here.
0:35:10 > 0:35:11What would you use the mezzanine for?
0:35:11 > 0:35:14We could have it as an office. You could work from home.
0:35:14 > 0:35:16I like it as a study.
0:35:16 > 0:35:18- Games room.- Have your telly up there.
0:35:18 > 0:35:20Table football.
0:35:20 > 0:35:22Have my guitar up there.
0:35:22 > 0:35:26Drinks downstairs and bring friends upstairs for a bit of a laugh.
0:35:26 > 0:35:28MIMICS "DUELLING BANJOS"
0:35:28 > 0:35:32I could see us here, but it's so different from anything I'd imagined.
0:35:32 > 0:35:34- Definitely a wild card.- Definitely.
0:35:34 > 0:35:36Let's have a chat with the guys.
0:35:36 > 0:35:39They really love this place, but there are some issues.
0:35:39 > 0:35:41Jonny, I can sort them out.
0:35:44 > 0:35:46- What did you think?- We like it.
0:35:46 > 0:35:48Completely different, up and down.
0:35:48 > 0:35:51Bedrooms downstairs and living space upstairs.
0:35:51 > 0:35:53Views of Coventry as well, the canal, two balconies.
0:35:53 > 0:35:56Completely different layout. Definitely different.
0:35:56 > 0:36:00- Yeah. Raj, what are you thinking?- I loved it. I could see us living here.
0:36:00 > 0:36:05I love the use of space and I think it's perfect for us.
0:36:05 > 0:36:08This property's perfect for you guys now.
0:36:08 > 0:36:11You're also looking for a property that's going to be a family home.
0:36:11 > 0:36:14I'm not sure this place would grow with us.
0:36:14 > 0:36:19It's perfect for us now, but I'm not sure in five, six, seven years' time we'd still be here.
0:36:19 > 0:36:22OK. There's one issue I know you had.
0:36:22 > 0:36:26You love looking on the canal, something very calming about being by the water.
0:36:26 > 0:36:29But you weren't so sure about the view.
0:36:29 > 0:36:30A lot of activity going on.
0:36:30 > 0:36:33Think about it. When you're at work, they're working.
0:36:33 > 0:36:35When you come home, they've gone.
0:36:35 > 0:36:40You've got peace and quiet and that side of the canal is due for regeneration to match this side.
0:36:40 > 0:36:45It's still in the very early stages, but that's why I think this could be a very good investment.
0:36:45 > 0:36:48Of course, it's all about the money.
0:36:48 > 0:36:53Guess the price time. Sat, you're doing dreadfully so far.
0:36:53 > 0:36:56Why don't you go first, my friend? Your budget's £210,000.
0:36:56 > 0:36:59Gorgeous new-build property. What do you reckon?
0:36:59 > 0:37:06- I think look and feel-wise and the way they've done it, I think we're talking about 210,000.- Top budget.
0:37:06 > 0:37:12I was going to say 210 as well, but I might put in a cheeky 209.
0:37:12 > 0:37:17209. Raj, you were wise to be cheeky because once more, sorry Sat, it's been a disaster.
0:37:17 > 0:37:19You've just pipped him.
0:37:19 > 0:37:24But you'll like this. This place is on the market for £190,000.
0:37:24 > 0:37:29Well below your budget, for this fantastic city centre living.
0:37:29 > 0:37:32I'm really surprised. It's a really good price.
0:37:32 > 0:37:34It's completely shocked me, that.
0:37:34 > 0:37:36You talk about properties growing with you.
0:37:36 > 0:37:38The four-bedroom version of this is £215,000.
0:37:38 > 0:37:43- Right.- Being a new-build, you could probably get away with an offer at your 210 budget.
0:37:43 > 0:37:45Want something to grow with you.
0:37:45 > 0:37:48So three lovely properties. All very different today.
0:37:48 > 0:37:50- Plenty to think about.- Definitely.
0:37:50 > 0:37:54Put your heads together and think about which one you would like to test-drive.
0:37:54 > 0:37:58- Or as we say... - Try before you buy.- Off you go. - See you later, guys.
0:37:58 > 0:38:00While they're doing that, here's a reminder.
0:38:02 > 0:38:05Yes. We kicked off our love fest today with our joint choice,
0:38:05 > 0:38:10a three-bed semi with impressive gardens, an open living space and in a great area of town.
0:38:10 > 0:38:15But could it pull at Sat and Raj's heart strings? On for...
0:38:17 > 0:38:20Maybe. But what about my wild card?
0:38:20 > 0:38:24What it lacked in fixtures and fittings, it made up for with bags of renovation potential.
0:38:24 > 0:38:26Retaining bundles of original features,
0:38:26 > 0:38:32this place could easily be transformed into a lovely family home at...
0:38:34 > 0:38:38Then there was my wild card. Three good-sized bedrooms, a beautiful living area,
0:38:38 > 0:38:44energy-saving systems and views over Coventry, offering the ultimate in city living.
0:38:44 > 0:38:51This is the perfect place for a pair of young lovers - especially at...
0:38:53 > 0:38:56Sat and Raj - love me.
0:38:56 > 0:39:00In our wild card fest today you have chosen to test drive my wild card,
0:39:00 > 0:39:03this gorgeous property. What was it about this place?
0:39:03 > 0:39:06We love the whole fact of it being different.
0:39:06 > 0:39:12As we said before we even went in, when we got inside bedrooms downstairs, lounge upstairs,
0:39:12 > 0:39:18canals, two balconies, lot of variation and little new surprises we weren't expecting.
0:39:18 > 0:39:20You've seen enough semi-detacheds.
0:39:20 > 0:39:24Definitely. That's what attracted us. It's so different to anything we've seen.
0:39:24 > 0:39:29And our super-secretive sleuth of a surveyor has given this place the once-over.
0:39:29 > 0:39:34We always say at this point, it's not a legally-binding survey, but gives some pointers.
0:39:34 > 0:39:38This cladding is cedarwood, which means that as it ages it just gets better.
0:39:38 > 0:39:41Very low-maintenance and will look after itself.
0:39:41 > 0:39:48On the flipside of that coin, the balcony on the other side is also wood, but it will need maintenance.
0:39:48 > 0:39:52You've really got to keep on top of that, to keep it up to a good standard of repair.
0:39:52 > 0:39:55One thing you mention is the water systems you've got going on.
0:39:55 > 0:40:01You've got a rainwater harvester, used for your toilet etc, and then a solar water heater for your bath.
0:40:01 > 0:40:05Both specialist water systems and both would require specialist people
0:40:05 > 0:40:08to and service them as an addition to your central heating.
0:40:08 > 0:40:10But very efficient and positive things.
0:40:10 > 0:40:13One last thing to point out, that our surveyor did note,
0:40:13 > 0:40:16is this property backs on to the canal, which is why we love it.
0:40:16 > 0:40:18Gorgeous with that waterfront.
0:40:18 > 0:40:21Just beware where your boundary finishes.
0:40:21 > 0:40:25Whose responsibility is it to maintain that canal bank?
0:40:25 > 0:40:29You're itching to get in and test-drive this baby, so have a great time.
0:40:29 > 0:40:31- In you go.- Cup of tea?
0:40:31 > 0:40:34- Let's go barging.- Awesome.
0:40:38 > 0:40:40So, time for study for Raj and an opportunity for Sat
0:40:40 > 0:40:44to see what the local neighbourhood can offer.
0:40:46 > 0:40:49Sorry to barge in again, but I can see that canal being a distraction.
0:40:51 > 0:40:56That was an embarrassing pun. It definitely is a romantic spot, though. Eh, Sat?
0:40:59 > 0:41:01That's better, the perfect place to swot up.
0:41:04 > 0:41:07And looks like our Sat's gone overboard on the pressie front.
0:41:09 > 0:41:11Raj, I'm back. Where are you?
0:41:11 > 0:41:13I'm up here.
0:41:13 > 0:41:15- I've got some presents. - You're wonderful, babe.
0:41:15 > 0:41:17Ah! You're wonderful, babe.
0:41:17 > 0:41:20No, you're wonderful, babe.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23So, Sat and Raj, you've had the opportunity to spend some time
0:41:23 > 0:41:25in Simon's wild card property. How was it for you?
0:41:25 > 0:41:27We really enjoyed it.
0:41:27 > 0:41:29We really liked the property.
0:41:29 > 0:41:33It's got everything we'd want in a property for us at the moment.
0:41:33 > 0:41:35- Done, brilliant.- Let's go.
0:41:35 > 0:41:39What I was hoping was this place would help you think outside the box. Has it?
0:41:39 > 0:41:43I think so. You were talking about the efficient features -
0:41:43 > 0:41:48the ecological system etc - things you wouldn't normally expect, but they've taken account of.
0:41:48 > 0:41:51Yes, this is the future, my friends.
0:41:51 > 0:41:53But what's the future for you two?
0:41:53 > 0:41:55It's that time. The ultimate question.
0:41:55 > 0:41:58To buy or not to buy?
0:41:58 > 0:42:01Unfortunately on this occasion, guys, it's not to buy.
0:42:01 > 0:42:06- Know what, Jonny? I'm not surprised. - No.- They've already seen half of Coventry.
0:42:06 > 0:42:09What hope did we have?
0:42:10 > 0:42:14- Why?- I think the property is perfect for us at the moment, like I said.
0:42:14 > 0:42:18But I think we'd only be able to stay here for one or two years,
0:42:18 > 0:42:22because I can't see us bringing up a family in a place like this.
0:42:22 > 0:42:24All in all, not wasted time?
0:42:24 > 0:42:27- Definitely not.- It's definitely made us think outside the box,
0:42:27 > 0:42:30outside the semi-detacheds that we've been looking at.
0:42:30 > 0:42:34Brilliant. Listen, good luck with your continuing search.
0:42:34 > 0:42:37Heaven help all the estate agents in Coventry!
0:42:37 > 0:42:43But when you finally do find somewhere to settle down, do let us know.
0:42:43 > 0:42:48- Will do.- Take care. - Cheers, guys. It's been great fun. - Bye!
0:42:50 > 0:42:52Well, there we go. We tried to mix things up a bit.
0:42:52 > 0:42:56Threw in a joint choice first, two wild cards. Didn't get it quite right.
0:42:56 > 0:43:00- I think we've inspired them for their future search.- We have that.
0:43:00 > 0:43:06If you feel stuck in a rut as you search for your perfect property and you need inspiration, get in touch.
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