0:00:02 > 0:00:04Simon, house-hunting is a bit like exploring
0:00:04 > 0:00:07the scrumptious food emporiums of north Devon.
0:00:07 > 0:00:10It's lovely to go window shopping, but it can be a bit frustrating
0:00:10 > 0:00:13- when you can't quite pick what you fancy.- Exactly.
0:00:13 > 0:00:18Although what keeps you going is not knowing what's waiting for you around the corner!
0:00:18 > 0:00:22Ooh! And now it's time for the real icing on the cake
0:00:22 > 0:00:24with a cherry in the middle.
0:00:24 > 0:00:27Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to To Buy Or Not To Buy!
0:00:38 > 0:00:42Ooh, fresh sea food, Devon cream teas and scrumpy!
0:00:42 > 0:00:45We'll have a fabulous time here in Barnstaple, Rani.
0:00:45 > 0:00:47We're not here on holiday.
0:00:47 > 0:00:51We're here to find our house-buyers three Devon delectable delights.
0:00:51 > 0:00:53I'm forgetting the key ingredients.
0:00:53 > 0:00:56Three properties, three tours and one unique opportunity to...
0:00:56 > 0:00:58BOTH: ..try before you buy!
0:00:58 > 0:01:02You realise you've got to buy that before you try it!
0:01:02 > 0:01:05Same applies to you! Now, let's meet today's couple.
0:01:05 > 0:01:08Here they are, Richard and Alison Scott.
0:01:08 > 0:01:11Alison, I'm not sure how to phrase this politely,
0:01:11 > 0:01:14she's a fish-wife!
0:01:14 > 0:01:16That's very rude. You've only just met the lady!
0:01:16 > 0:01:21To be precise, she manages the fish department at a large store in Barnstaple.
0:01:21 > 0:01:26She's a dab hand at scaling, chopping and gutting. Best not get on the wrong side of Alison!
0:01:26 > 0:01:30Richard has been a self-employed builder since he was 15
0:01:30 > 0:01:33and certainly has his head screwed on house-wise.
0:01:33 > 0:01:37He'll be climbing the walls if we don't find him a building project!
0:01:37 > 0:01:41They currently live in a modern three-bed property on a new estate,
0:01:41 > 0:01:44but have called on us to find them their dream home.
0:01:44 > 0:01:49We'd better find them something good or Alison will be gutted if it's not right!
0:01:49 > 0:01:52And Richard will come down on us like a tonne of bricks!
0:01:52 > 0:01:56Especially if you don't stop using these awful puns, Simon!
0:01:59 > 0:02:03Richard and Alison, you already have a gorgeous house. Why move?
0:02:03 > 0:02:06- We're looking to start a family. - Right.
0:02:06 > 0:02:11We want to be able to have a bigger private area, not linked to another house.
0:02:11 > 0:02:14And a bit more room inside would be nice.
0:02:14 > 0:02:17Is it a big family you're after there?
0:02:17 > 0:02:19- Do you know about this, Alison? - Yeah,
0:02:19 > 0:02:23I didn't know what I was signing up for when we got married!
0:02:23 > 0:02:28- So how many bedrooms are you looking for in this new property? - Four would be nice.
0:02:28 > 0:02:33You've got no children yet, but I hear we've got to house something hairy as well.
0:02:33 > 0:02:36- Yeah, it's our best friend. - What me?- Not you!
0:02:37 > 0:02:40- Something a bit cuter!- OK.
0:02:40 > 0:02:42It's Sidney, our silverback.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46Does Sidney need his own room?
0:02:46 > 0:02:49He's quite a size, so I'd say so, yeah.
0:02:49 > 0:02:55- He's bigger than a baby! - That'll be in the baby's room to start, until you get your real baby!
0:02:55 > 0:02:57This is all getting surreal!
0:02:57 > 0:03:01Alison, before you start the family, what kind of property are you after? What style?
0:03:01 > 0:03:04Well, nothing too old.
0:03:04 > 0:03:08- Really?- Yeah.- Is it basically anything Richard can build?
0:03:08 > 0:03:10- Is that what you'd be happy with? - Yeah.
0:03:10 > 0:03:13We don't like terraced or anything like that.
0:03:13 > 0:03:17We wouldn't want anything too old. Um...
0:03:17 > 0:03:20If it was detached and possible to do something with it.
0:03:20 > 0:03:25- To extend or double garage. - You're just dying to build! - Is that what you want,
0:03:25 > 0:03:27to create the place yourself?
0:03:27 > 0:03:30Yeah, because then you get what you want.
0:03:30 > 0:03:33Where would you prefer to be if everything was ideal?
0:03:33 > 0:03:38We're not blinkered on a set area. A 20-mile radius of Barnstaple.
0:03:38 > 0:03:42Are we looking detached in a rural position
0:03:42 > 0:03:43or semi-rural, edge of town?
0:03:43 > 0:03:48We would like something preferably in a little bit of land.
0:03:48 > 0:03:50Not acres and acres,
0:03:50 > 0:03:53but something we've got room to manoeuvre in.
0:03:53 > 0:03:56You mean so he's got space to build more!
0:03:56 > 0:03:59- Yeah!- Pretty much, cos we do want to take over the world!
0:03:59 > 0:04:01Fair enough!
0:04:03 > 0:04:06Are you up to it? You've been a builder since you were 15.
0:04:06 > 0:04:10Is it something you could do, and really want to take on?
0:04:10 > 0:04:14Are you beating round the bush to say, "Are you any good?"
0:04:14 > 0:04:17- Kind of!- You could ask my mum!
0:04:17 > 0:04:20- Have you done work for your mum? - We built her extension.
0:04:20 > 0:04:24- What have you done in here? - Just the conservatory.
0:04:24 > 0:04:25Can we have a look?
0:04:25 > 0:04:28- Sure.- We don't want to go and find you something
0:04:28 > 0:04:32and you go, "I don't know what I'm doing now! Just a lick of paint!"
0:04:32 > 0:04:36Well, this is impressive!
0:04:36 > 0:04:39- I'm liking this!- You don't do things by half, do you?
0:04:39 > 0:04:43- Get it right first time. - You certainly have. Lovely job. Nice finish and everything.
0:04:43 > 0:04:45- We're pleased with it.- We are.
0:04:45 > 0:04:47So you know what you're doing.
0:04:47 > 0:04:51Tell us what we're doing - budget. How much do we have to play with?
0:04:51 > 0:04:54- 230, we'd said. - Tops, yeah. 230 tops.
0:04:54 > 0:04:57- 230,000 is the absolute top of your budget.- Yes.
0:04:57 > 0:04:59- This'll put us to the test.- I know.
0:04:59 > 0:05:01Cos they know what they're doing.
0:05:01 > 0:05:05- And we don't!- Yes, we do! We'll prove we do. See you later!
0:05:05 > 0:05:06Wish us luck!
0:05:08 > 0:05:11Rani, despite the weather, I'm very excited.
0:05:11 > 0:05:15We've got 230 grand to play with and I love finding a good project.
0:05:15 > 0:05:19You won't say that when you find out properties here are around 250.
0:05:19 > 0:05:21We'd better get our skates on, then!
0:05:21 > 0:05:26- I'm going to check out what's on telly in Barnstaple. - Eh?- OK, I'll do the market!
0:05:27 > 0:05:32If it's golden beaches, spectacular coastline, cliffs, secret coves,
0:05:32 > 0:05:35quaint villages and lush rolling hills you're after,
0:05:35 > 0:05:38then look no further than delightful Devon.
0:05:38 > 0:05:41It's a friendly, laid-back part of the country
0:05:41 > 0:05:46and with the surge in popularity of British seaside resorts, Devon is on the map.
0:05:46 > 0:05:49Barnstaple itself is an impressive historic market town
0:05:49 > 0:05:51in the north of the county
0:05:51 > 0:05:55with a Royal Charter dating back to 930 AD.
0:05:55 > 0:05:58It's the main shopping centre for the area
0:05:58 > 0:06:01and it's claimed it's the oldest borough in the United Kingdom.
0:06:01 > 0:06:04I love Butchers Row, open-fronted shops
0:06:04 > 0:06:08bursting with gorgeous local and speciality produce.
0:06:08 > 0:06:12If it's bargains and banter you fancy, get down to Pannier Market,
0:06:12 > 0:06:14a splendid Victorian market hall.
0:06:14 > 0:06:18It's twinned with Barnstable in Massachusetts, USA.
0:06:18 > 0:06:20Can't be as good as our Barnstaple.
0:06:20 > 0:06:22True. But talking of other areas,
0:06:22 > 0:06:25let's see what 230 grand would buy you elsewhere.
0:06:25 > 0:06:29If you have a taste for a terrace, what about this Victorian home in Bristol,
0:06:29 > 0:06:33with high ceilings, cornices and stained-glass windows.
0:06:33 > 0:06:39It has three double bedrooms, three receptions and is close to a great local park.
0:06:41 > 0:06:42If you're set on a semi,
0:06:42 > 0:06:46consider this beautifully restored example in York.
0:06:46 > 0:06:50As well as three bedrooms, garage and workshop,
0:06:50 > 0:06:55it has a stylish kitchen with granite worktops and a utility room.
0:06:57 > 0:06:59But if you have skill and vision,
0:06:59 > 0:07:01what about building your own?
0:07:01 > 0:07:04This plot in Gloucestershire has full planning permission
0:07:04 > 0:07:08to build a three-bed detached house with a good-sized garden.
0:07:08 > 0:07:09Apart from the foundations,
0:07:09 > 0:07:11you won't have to dig too deep.
0:07:15 > 0:07:18- Mmm! These look good! - Now back to Barnstaple.
0:07:18 > 0:07:22While Rani is more interested in cakes, I'm doing some real work!
0:07:22 > 0:07:25- Hi.- Thanks so much for seeing me. - You're welcome.
0:07:25 > 0:07:26- Hiya, love.- Hello!
0:07:26 > 0:07:29I've come to get some veg to make a little salad.
0:07:29 > 0:07:31One pound of tomatoes, please.
0:07:31 > 0:07:36Tell me about Barnstaple, about this area of the north Devon coast.
0:07:36 > 0:07:39Barnstaple is the regional centre for north Devon.
0:07:39 > 0:07:43If north Devon were a county, Barnstaple would be the county town.
0:07:43 > 0:07:45I'm trying to find a house for a gorilla.
0:07:45 > 0:07:48And a few other people who want to move to north Devon.
0:07:48 > 0:07:51- What do you think? Will these be good?- They'll be fine.
0:07:51 > 0:07:55- Sorry, madam. These bananas are going like hot cakes!- They are.
0:07:55 > 0:07:59The budget we've got, lovely couple, is £230,000.
0:07:59 > 0:08:04They're hopefully looking detached, three to four bedrooms. How realistic is that?
0:08:04 > 0:08:05That's entirely realistic.
0:08:05 > 0:08:10It's much more realistic if one considers a three-bedroom house.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13What do you think of growing your own fruit and veg?
0:08:13 > 0:08:17- You've got great weather here.- Right. - He's going to tell me something now!
0:08:17 > 0:08:20This has made me grow some in my little garden.
0:08:20 > 0:08:24- Really?- I grew beans last year. Runner beans.- Baked beans?
0:08:24 > 0:08:26Not baked beans! Runner beans!
0:08:26 > 0:08:28I tried baked beans - the tin got rusty.
0:08:28 > 0:08:31So I grew runner beans.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33I'm not joking. They were beautiful.
0:08:33 > 0:08:38The chap involved is a builder. Very keen builder, very handy.
0:08:38 > 0:08:42He's done major renovations himself so not scared of getting his hands dirty.
0:08:42 > 0:08:45You'd better pick your cabbage before they go off.
0:08:45 > 0:08:47I have. What do you think?
0:08:47 > 0:08:50- Looks green to me! - A heart as good as you!
0:08:50 > 0:08:51Aw!
0:08:51 > 0:08:57This old lodge house is owned by the local authority and used as offices until fairly recently.
0:08:57 > 0:09:00It's now surplus to their needs.
0:09:00 > 0:09:03- I'll swap you this hat for that hat. - No.- Just try it on.- No.
0:09:03 > 0:09:06- Please try it on.- I'll try it on.
0:09:07 > 0:09:09See you later!
0:09:09 > 0:09:12I think you might have found me a little gem here.
0:09:12 > 0:09:15You've been a gem yourself. Thank you for your time.
0:09:15 > 0:09:19Thanks for all your inside knowledge. I'll get on the road.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21What's this?
0:09:21 > 0:09:25I've got to phone my friends and tell them I've found something unusual!
0:09:25 > 0:09:28Wow! You can go in it and everything!
0:09:30 > 0:09:32- Finished eating yet?- Yep.
0:09:32 > 0:09:35It's "scone"! "Scone"!
0:09:35 > 0:09:37Shall we get on with how we've got on?
0:09:37 > 0:09:41- Go on, then.- OK.- How did you do?
0:09:41 > 0:09:44I've done very well. My choice, property number one,
0:09:44 > 0:09:47I think is a fabulous renovation project.
0:09:47 > 0:09:52It's gorgeous. Normally I'm reticent about showing people this kind of place
0:09:52 > 0:09:57but I think Richard and Alison have the imagination and the skills required
0:09:57 > 0:10:00to make this into a beautiful detached home.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03It's right here in Barnstaple. It's gorgeous!
0:10:03 > 0:10:05That's property one. What have you got?
0:10:05 > 0:10:08They don't have to use their imagination as much as that one.
0:10:08 > 0:10:11This is my choice. Have a look at this.
0:10:11 > 0:10:13It's quite nicely decorated.
0:10:13 > 0:10:17- Richard said willing to go 20 miles away.- They both did.
0:10:17 > 0:10:19Alison wasn't as keen.
0:10:19 > 0:10:21So I'm going about 20 minutes away, 30 minutes.
0:10:21 > 0:10:25Ilfracombe. This is nice, a private road!
0:10:25 > 0:10:28And, wait for it, he mentioned his cars.
0:10:28 > 0:10:31- I'm giving him somewhere to park 'em.- Very nice.
0:10:31 > 0:10:34- Is that nice views, as well? - Yes, it's got sea views.
0:10:34 > 0:10:38- They'll like this.- We shall see! We shall see!- All right.
0:10:38 > 0:10:41For our wild card, we're off to Swimbridge,
0:10:41 > 0:10:43which is slightly closer to Barnstaple.
0:10:43 > 0:10:45So that will please Alison.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47Why is it the wild card, Rani?
0:10:47 > 0:10:51Why is it the wild card? It's not the detached property they wanted.
0:10:51 > 0:10:53It's not a detached property.
0:10:53 > 0:10:57They also wanted four bedrooms. It's not that, either!
0:10:57 > 0:10:59But it is absolutely gorgeous.
0:10:59 > 0:11:03We love it, couldn't resist it. That's the wild card.
0:11:03 > 0:11:05Let's start with my choice, Property One.
0:11:08 > 0:11:12This lovely lodge house really is my kind of project.
0:11:12 > 0:11:17Built in 1849 on a generous plot, it has two floors, two sheds and two toilets.
0:11:17 > 0:11:21But will Richard and Alison guess this is not an ordinary house sale?
0:11:21 > 0:11:25Alison and Richard, Property One today is my choice.
0:11:25 > 0:11:27It's an old lodge. First impressions?
0:11:29 > 0:11:30- It's huge!- Yes.
0:11:30 > 0:11:33- Massive. - Looks like it's got potential.
0:11:33 > 0:11:37That is exactly the right word I was hoping you'd say.
0:11:37 > 0:11:39It's detached, in its own grounds.
0:11:39 > 0:11:41Got this massive garden behind us.
0:11:41 > 0:11:45Now, Richard, you've got obviously, great skills.
0:11:45 > 0:11:48You'll need to put them to use in this property.
0:11:48 > 0:11:51- You'll need to use your imaginations, but you've got bundles.- OK.
0:11:51 > 0:11:54- So get in there and enjoy. - Thank you very much.
0:11:54 > 0:11:56We'll stay out here with the brollies!
0:11:56 > 0:12:00I know a little place we can hide. This way, quick.
0:12:01 > 0:12:03Oh!
0:12:03 > 0:12:05It's huge!
0:12:05 > 0:12:09- "It's hu-u-u-uge!"- Yes, it is.
0:12:09 > 0:12:11You could have a party in the hall.
0:12:11 > 0:12:16She wants to have a party in the hall and sing her heart out!
0:12:16 > 0:12:18It's an empty room.
0:12:18 > 0:12:19Strange shape.
0:12:19 > 0:12:22- I'm loving the windows. - View of Barnstaple.
0:12:22 > 0:12:26Nice bit of land there for me to do something with.
0:12:26 > 0:12:31- You're thinking double garage already!- Yes, I am.- I know!
0:12:31 > 0:12:34- He's already building. - And she knows it!
0:12:37 > 0:12:39Oh, wow!
0:12:41 > 0:12:43This is huge!
0:12:43 > 0:12:46That's what this place is about. Space, proportions.
0:12:46 > 0:12:51- We could knock that through. An archway.- Have a dining room.
0:12:51 > 0:12:55- Possibility.- I can't get over the size of this room.
0:12:55 > 0:12:56It's enormous!
0:12:56 > 0:13:01Oh, I love this kitchen. I'll go all girly and woo-hoo about the kitchen.
0:13:01 > 0:13:03I love this! The plaster's falling off the walls,
0:13:03 > 0:13:06there's nothing in there.
0:13:06 > 0:13:09That's the beauty of having Richard as a husband.
0:13:09 > 0:13:14She's got complete faith in him and she said he's quite humble with what he can achieve.
0:13:14 > 0:13:19Oh, gosh! It's like a utility here so we wouldn't have to have anything in there.
0:13:19 > 0:13:21- They're letting this place flow for them.- Mmm.
0:13:24 > 0:13:27- Ooh.- Downstairs toilet. Always handy.
0:13:27 > 0:13:29Muddy boots. Children.
0:13:29 > 0:13:35- Yes.- And you. Workman. Workman, yes. Definitely. That's not too bad.
0:13:35 > 0:13:37That's about the size of ours already.
0:13:37 > 0:13:39- What's in there?- No way!
0:13:41 > 0:13:43His and hers toilets!
0:13:43 > 0:13:46There's a novel idea! His and hers toilets!
0:13:48 > 0:13:52- It's a shower.- OK.- What a strange place to have a shower!
0:13:52 > 0:13:55- I don't think we'd keep that. - That's done. Knock that out.
0:13:55 > 0:13:59Richard's just got his sledgehammer out. "It's all going!"
0:13:59 > 0:14:01Oh, gosh!
0:14:01 > 0:14:03This is another huge room.
0:14:03 > 0:14:05- Gotta be the front room.- Yeah.
0:14:05 > 0:14:07But looking outside...
0:14:09 > 0:14:14See, I'm thinking...extend across that way.
0:14:15 > 0:14:19Get a bigger room, garage, maybe.
0:14:19 > 0:14:22It is the best part about developing a project like this.
0:14:22 > 0:14:25- Knocking it down!- Yeah?- It's great!
0:14:25 > 0:14:27- Don't like that there.- No.
0:14:27 > 0:14:32Not so keen on the old swirly wallpaper, either!
0:14:32 > 0:14:35We've shown them round a completely empty building
0:14:35 > 0:14:40with tiles falling off the walls, leaks everywhere, the windows are shot,
0:14:40 > 0:14:43and Alison's not keen on the swirly wallpaper!
0:14:43 > 0:14:45- Oh, wow!- OK.
0:14:45 > 0:14:48More kitchen worktop!
0:14:48 > 0:14:51Perhaps they're people obsessed with kitchens!
0:14:51 > 0:14:53- Maybe.- Hmm.
0:14:53 > 0:14:58This is obviously going to be a bedroom, or would you rip out the walls as well?
0:14:58 > 0:15:00Let's see what's on the other side!
0:15:00 > 0:15:06- I'll wait to see what's on the other side of the walls...before I knock them down!- You know he wants to!
0:15:06 > 0:15:08Perfect for a nursery room!
0:15:08 > 0:15:10- Do you think?- Yes!
0:15:10 > 0:15:13- Has that made you all squidgy now? - It has!
0:15:13 > 0:15:16Aw! This is really lovely!
0:15:16 > 0:15:19Alison's fallen in love with this place!
0:15:19 > 0:15:22- Oh!- That's your bedroom!
0:15:22 > 0:15:25Is this for when I'm naughty?
0:15:25 > 0:15:27This could be a walk-in wardrobe.
0:15:27 > 0:15:32There's potential to pinch space out of another room and make that the family bathroom.
0:15:32 > 0:15:34The ceiling's very low here.
0:15:34 > 0:15:37- It is.- Don't you think? - Feels enclosed.
0:15:37 > 0:15:40- Yes, it is quite a low room in this bathroom.- I like it, though.
0:15:40 > 0:15:43- And I'm only 'ickle. - It's quirky, though.
0:15:43 > 0:15:47One bedroom, two bedrooms, three bedrooms.
0:15:47 > 0:15:48Right.
0:15:48 > 0:15:53So, therefore, you have to build a fourth bedroom.
0:15:53 > 0:15:58I'd already of thought of that when I said about extending out that way.
0:15:58 > 0:16:01You could have a room over the garage, I was thinking.
0:16:01 > 0:16:06So there's method to his madness. That's why he wants to extend downstairs
0:16:06 > 0:16:09so he can extend upstairs and get his fourth bedroom.
0:16:09 > 0:16:14It's actually a fab sized room. I could have my party in this room!
0:16:14 > 0:16:17Alison's having another party upstairs now!
0:16:17 > 0:16:19No bathroom upstairs.
0:16:19 > 0:16:21That's a good point.
0:16:21 > 0:16:24No bathroom, no toilet. It's all downstairs.
0:16:24 > 0:16:26I see.
0:16:26 > 0:16:28They've spotted it! There's no bathroom!
0:16:28 > 0:16:31- The smallest room would have to be the bathroom.- Yeah.
0:16:31 > 0:16:36Turn that into the bathroom and perhaps have three double bedrooms.
0:16:36 > 0:16:39- Correct! Now you're with it! Yes. - He's thinking!
0:16:42 > 0:16:45- Interesting?- Yes, very.- Definitely.
0:16:45 > 0:16:49Yeah, um, liking the two toilets downstairs!
0:16:49 > 0:16:52- Male and female - sorted! - We like the "his and hers" idea!
0:16:54 > 0:16:58You did very well stopping Richard wanting to remove every single wall!
0:16:58 > 0:17:04It's difficult when he wants to take the whole thing down and rebuild something different!
0:17:04 > 0:17:08- Yeah.- One thing you didn't pick up on is that it's not actually a house at the moment.
0:17:08 > 0:17:10- No.- Did you notice that?
0:17:10 > 0:17:14I noticed it, but it must be living with him too long!
0:17:14 > 0:17:17You think he'll change everything.
0:17:17 > 0:17:19Bring down a wall and make what we want.
0:17:19 > 0:17:22That's brilliant. Really positive.
0:17:22 > 0:17:26The house is registered and is being sold as a day care centre.
0:17:26 > 0:17:29- Right.- That's shocked you, hasn't it?
0:17:29 > 0:17:32That's relevant because it means if you bought it
0:17:32 > 0:17:35you would actually buy it as a day care centre
0:17:35 > 0:17:40and you'd then have to apply to have it re-registered as a private dwelling.
0:17:40 > 0:17:43It's something to bear in mind that you're not buying a house
0:17:43 > 0:17:45if you went ahead with it.
0:17:45 > 0:17:48- But a gorgeous old place. Beautiful.- Yes.- Definitely.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50How beautiful did you think it was?
0:17:50 > 0:17:52We'll have a little quiz.
0:17:52 > 0:17:54You being a builder, and all!
0:17:54 > 0:17:59Would you say this was a load of rubble, this place for you,
0:17:59 > 0:18:01or would you say it was a bit of a palace?
0:18:01 > 0:18:03- A bit of a palace. - A bit of a palace?
0:18:03 > 0:18:06Potential to be a palace!
0:18:06 > 0:18:09We've got one for you, Alison. Was it a load of rotten old fish,
0:18:09 > 0:18:13or was it a beautiful piece of grilled Dover sole?
0:18:13 > 0:18:20Hmm. I think I would go for the Dover sole over the rotten fish. Maybe a bit in-between.
0:18:20 > 0:18:22I see. OK. Fair enough, yeah.
0:18:22 > 0:18:25It is kind of sitting in that grey area, isn't it?
0:18:25 > 0:18:27OK, what about the price of this place?
0:18:27 > 0:18:30- Who wants to go first? - You should.- OK.
0:18:30 > 0:18:35- I would think 180.- 180.
0:18:35 > 0:18:37- OK.- Richard?
0:18:37 > 0:18:39- I'll go 185.- 185.- 185.
0:18:39 > 0:18:41Simon, how close are they?
0:18:41 > 0:18:45Neither of you are far off. It's one-nil to Richard, though.
0:18:45 > 0:18:46No!
0:18:50 > 0:18:52Why are you so upset by that?
0:18:52 > 0:18:55Never mind. You'll win the next one.
0:18:55 > 0:18:57I'd like to upset you a bit more, now,
0:18:57 > 0:19:00- because it's actually on for £200,000.- Right.
0:19:00 > 0:19:04It's a buyers' market anyway, so people are open to offers.
0:19:04 > 0:19:05Yeah.
0:19:05 > 0:19:08Don't worry too much cos there's still Property Two.
0:19:08 > 0:19:12- The one I'm championing today. Want to see it?- Definitely.
0:19:12 > 0:19:14Let's get the umbrellas and get out there.
0:19:17 > 0:19:21House two is in the popular seaside town of Ilfracombe,
0:19:21 > 0:19:25which has a gorgeous harbour and is close to award-winning beaches.
0:19:25 > 0:19:29The question is, will my choice make waves or just be a wet fish?
0:19:29 > 0:19:32I've brought you out to Ilfracombe. Do you know the area at all?
0:19:32 > 0:19:35- Yes.- Yeah, vaguely.- Vaguely.
0:19:35 > 0:19:37What do you think of this area?
0:19:37 > 0:19:38I like it.
0:19:38 > 0:19:41"I like it", says Alison!
0:19:41 > 0:19:44"I like it." What do you think of it, Richard?
0:19:44 > 0:19:48- It's OK.- What's wrong with it? - It's a bit hilly for me.
0:19:48 > 0:19:52A bit too hilly. We thought you'd want to be out a bit more.
0:19:52 > 0:19:56Countrified, getting away from everything, you were saying.
0:19:56 > 0:19:59That's why I brought you here. We are on a hill. Down there
0:19:59 > 0:20:02we've got the quayside and the harbour.
0:20:02 > 0:20:05This is your property. This is the one I've picked for you.
0:20:05 > 0:20:08- OK.- It's interesting!
0:20:10 > 0:20:13- I've heard that before! - It is interesting.
0:20:13 > 0:20:17I'm not hearing the word you like to use, which is "potential".
0:20:18 > 0:20:21The main reason we're here, you'll see once you're inside.
0:20:21 > 0:20:25We're raised above Ilfracombe, so you know what the views will be.
0:20:25 > 0:20:27That's what you'll find here.
0:20:27 > 0:20:31It's for sitting and admiring the beauty of the north Devon coast.
0:20:31 > 0:20:35You've got to make your way up those stairs. No running that way!
0:20:35 > 0:20:38- Go in and have a look.- Go on. Enjoy.
0:20:38 > 0:20:39Thank you!
0:20:39 > 0:20:43- Oh, dear!- As they climb the stairs, you might be on an uphill struggle!
0:20:45 > 0:20:48Rani, as we know something about this house that they don't,
0:20:48 > 0:20:50shouldn't we do this like this?
0:20:56 > 0:21:00Wow, quite a bit of space in the hallway.
0:21:00 > 0:21:01Yeah.
0:21:01 > 0:21:05- You said this place would turn their world upside-down!- I did.
0:21:05 > 0:21:07Wow!
0:21:07 > 0:21:11Oh, it's an upside-down house! It must be!
0:21:11 > 0:21:14Yay! It's an upside-down house!
0:21:14 > 0:21:18This wouldn't be the master bedroom, would it? Surely not?
0:21:18 > 0:21:20I'm not commenting yet.
0:21:21 > 0:21:24Yes, that's right, Richard. Don't comment yet.
0:21:24 > 0:21:26- Reserve judgement.- Yes.
0:21:26 > 0:21:29We have a purple boys' room.
0:21:29 > 0:21:30OK.
0:21:30 > 0:21:35I hate to say this, but we haven't the excitement in their voices like at my property.
0:21:35 > 0:21:38No, and what worries me even more
0:21:38 > 0:21:42- is that Richard hasn't even threatened to knock down a wall, yet!- True.
0:21:42 > 0:21:45Are we thinking possibly a nursery for this room?
0:21:45 > 0:21:48- That would be all right for this. - That would be lovely.
0:21:48 > 0:21:51Picking the nursery. Things are looking up!
0:21:51 > 0:21:53So we have a third bedroom.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57Quite an odd shape!
0:21:57 > 0:21:59However, I quite like it.
0:21:59 > 0:22:02Listen to those seagulls, Simon.
0:22:02 > 0:22:05- That's what it's all about, living by the sea.- It is.
0:22:05 > 0:22:09- This would be better as an office. - Yeah.- Cos there's so many windows.
0:22:09 > 0:22:12- Yeah, definitely. - Plus you've got a bit of a view.
0:22:12 > 0:22:16- What is it they call it? "Double aspect".- Yeah.
0:22:16 > 0:22:18Great views of the sea here.
0:22:19 > 0:22:22Oh, well - it's bigger than ours!
0:22:23 > 0:22:25Taps in the middle. That's good!
0:22:25 > 0:22:28That is worth any money!
0:22:28 > 0:22:30Definitely room for two in that bath.
0:22:30 > 0:22:34- Yeah.- And I wouldn't have to go at the tap end any more!
0:22:36 > 0:22:42This is bliss! I've suddenly fallen in love with the house!
0:22:42 > 0:22:43I'm glad YOU have!
0:22:43 > 0:22:47Alison has just said she's fallen in love with the house.
0:22:47 > 0:22:49She hated it from the outside.
0:22:49 > 0:22:51Now, this is odd!
0:22:51 > 0:22:54Having laminate upstairs.
0:22:55 > 0:22:58- That's a surprise.- Yeah.
0:22:58 > 0:23:02I didn't expect the living room to be this large, actually.
0:23:02 > 0:23:04- That's a pleasant surprise.- Mm-hmm.
0:23:04 > 0:23:06The living room is bigger than she thought.
0:23:06 > 0:23:09A lot of surprises for you, Alison.
0:23:11 > 0:23:15- There's a good view.- Probably better on a sunny day!- Yes.
0:23:15 > 0:23:18It's why this house is laid out as it is.
0:23:18 > 0:23:24As you walk in the living room, the first thing that strikes you is the amazing ocean views.
0:23:24 > 0:23:28If you extended on the bottom floor and put a veranda on top,
0:23:28 > 0:23:31- you could sit out there and look out.- Wow!
0:23:31 > 0:23:32That's the thing.
0:23:32 > 0:23:34Yeah, have a veranda!
0:23:34 > 0:23:41There, he's decided to get the sledgehammer out, he's knocking out the front wall for a picture window.
0:23:43 > 0:23:44Wow!
0:23:44 > 0:23:46The toilet upstairs.
0:23:46 > 0:23:49It's a rather tiny toilet!
0:23:49 > 0:23:54As the house is topsy-turvy, they've just got a downstairs loo upstairs.
0:23:56 > 0:23:57- Wow.- That's more like it.
0:23:57 > 0:24:00A great kitchen.
0:24:00 > 0:24:03I like the whole... It's a lovely new kitchen as well, isn't it?
0:24:03 > 0:24:06Perfect size kitchen for us.
0:24:06 > 0:24:07Definitely.
0:24:07 > 0:24:09See, they like the kitchen.
0:24:09 > 0:24:15- They like the decor. They like the space.- It's a good-sized kitchen/diner.
0:24:15 > 0:24:21I'm loving the fact you can have a dining table in the kitchen as well.
0:24:21 > 0:24:23- Yeah.- Definitely.
0:24:23 > 0:24:27- A family round there. - A family of how many?
0:24:27 > 0:24:28Four?
0:24:28 > 0:24:31That's two kids. Excellent!
0:24:31 > 0:24:33We'd better go and find Rani, hadn't we?
0:24:33 > 0:24:36Has she done well or has she not? Hmm!
0:24:40 > 0:24:42Have you done well or haven't you, Rani?
0:24:42 > 0:24:44Who are they to judge me?
0:24:44 > 0:24:47That's the idea, to make them happy! Rani!
0:24:50 > 0:24:55Come and join us. Listen, just before you pass judgement on Rani,
0:24:55 > 0:24:58can you just pop round and give us a hand, please?
0:24:58 > 0:24:59It's a bit rusty, this.
0:24:59 > 0:25:03- Oops, out the way!- Do you actually use a garage? Would you?
0:25:03 > 0:25:06- Yes, I do.- Yeah?- You do?
0:25:06 > 0:25:10This place comes with a garage and through that doorway there
0:25:10 > 0:25:14there's a utility room and another storage room. So a lot of space here.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17So your house could become a third as big again.
0:25:17 > 0:25:21- This is very useful space, isn't it? - Yeah.
0:25:21 > 0:25:23Potential three storeys!
0:25:23 > 0:25:25It's a nice size for my car, so...
0:25:25 > 0:25:27You and your cars!
0:25:27 > 0:25:29Store my tools, as well.
0:25:29 > 0:25:33Alison, is that any good to you, a place to store his car and tools?
0:25:33 > 0:25:35As long as it keeps him quiet!
0:25:35 > 0:25:39Come with me. I've got a plan for you. Lower the garage.
0:25:39 > 0:25:41I'm hitting go
0:25:41 > 0:25:46to show you something to make you a bit happier, Richard.
0:25:46 > 0:25:49- Wow!- Wow!- Do we get the cars?
0:25:49 > 0:25:52No, the cars don't come with the garage.
0:25:52 > 0:25:56- You mentioned cars. Do you need space for motor vehicles?- Yes.
0:25:56 > 0:26:01- How does this grab you? A double garage.- I like that!
0:26:01 > 0:26:03There's that smile!
0:26:03 > 0:26:07So it's all looking good. You were nervous about going in before.
0:26:07 > 0:26:10- That's brilliant!- Brilliant. He loves that.
0:26:10 > 0:26:13I'll let you play with the buttons!
0:26:14 > 0:26:17You've seen Rani's topsy-turvy house in all its glory.
0:26:17 > 0:26:19It's guess-the-price time for this one.
0:26:19 > 0:26:23Your budget is £230,000. Who's going first this time, Richard?
0:26:23 > 0:26:27I would say 215.
0:26:27 > 0:26:30- OK. Alison?- 200.- 200.
0:26:30 > 0:26:32Do you know Ilfracombe at all?
0:26:32 > 0:26:36What properties are worth round here? Any ideas?
0:26:36 > 0:26:38- Yeah...- I thought I did, but obviously not!
0:26:40 > 0:26:44I'm sorry to tell you this, Alison, it is now two-nil.
0:26:44 > 0:26:46Don't storm off!
0:26:46 > 0:26:50The actual price of this property is 235.
0:26:50 > 0:26:54- Wow!- Which is five grand over your budget, but as we said,
0:26:54 > 0:26:58it's a buyers' market. You could get it down a bit, hopefully.
0:26:58 > 0:26:59Hmm.
0:26:59 > 0:27:01- Still not convinced?- No.
0:27:01 > 0:27:04There's one other fact about Ilfracombe.
0:27:04 > 0:27:09It's the northernmost point of the Devon coast-to-coast cycle route.
0:27:09 > 0:27:12- Not cycle number 27? - That's it, route number 27.
0:27:12 > 0:27:16With that in mind, let's get on our bikes and go see the wild card.
0:27:16 > 0:27:18Can you close the garage for me?
0:27:22 > 0:27:25Let's hope our delightful duo are dazzled by the wild card.
0:27:25 > 0:27:28Which, incidentally, is nine minutes, or 3.2 miles,
0:27:28 > 0:27:32- from cycle route number 27. - You're such a mine of information!
0:27:32 > 0:27:35It's in the beautiful village of Swimbridge.
0:27:35 > 0:27:40This former tannery cottage is cute and cosy
0:27:40 > 0:27:44and has an extra surprise which Richard and Alison may find hard to resist!
0:27:44 > 0:27:47What's that? It's close to cycle route 28 as well?!
0:27:47 > 0:27:48Don't be sarky!
0:27:48 > 0:27:53We've brought you to the Postman Pat picture-perfect village of Swimbridge.
0:27:53 > 0:27:57It's splitting the difference between Ilfracombe and Barnstaple.
0:27:57 > 0:27:5915 minutes from work for you
0:27:59 > 0:28:03- and we get that semi-rural idyll that you were after.- Ideal.
0:28:03 > 0:28:06A bit of information about Swimbridge for you.
0:28:06 > 0:28:09Down the road is a pub called the Jack Russell, with good reason.
0:28:09 > 0:28:14Reverend Jack Russell lived here and came up with a breed of dog called Parson Jack Russell.
0:28:14 > 0:28:18And if you don't agree on this one and it turns into a tug of war,
0:28:18 > 0:28:24- you could be in the right village cos every Boxing Day they have a tug of war over the stream!- Great!
0:28:24 > 0:28:26A bit of background for you. Enough of that.
0:28:26 > 0:28:28The property. First impressions?
0:28:28 > 0:28:30- I like it.- It's got character.
0:28:30 > 0:28:34- Definitely.- It's not detached. We know you wanted detached.
0:28:34 > 0:28:37The good news is, the walls are really thick.
0:28:37 > 0:28:40- So far, so good, definitely. - Nice area as well.
0:28:40 > 0:28:45- Do you know the area at all?- Yes. - What's good about this area for you?
0:28:45 > 0:28:47It's quiet and not too far out of town.
0:28:47 > 0:28:51- And I spied a school just up the road.- You and babies already!
0:28:52 > 0:28:55You'd better get in and look round.
0:28:55 > 0:28:57Good job they've got thick walls!
0:28:58 > 0:29:02We'll be listening! Behave yourself! Get in there!
0:29:02 > 0:29:04- In you go!- I don't think I want to listen!
0:29:04 > 0:29:07Ooh, I say!
0:29:11 > 0:29:14- Shall we?- They will behave themselves, won't they?
0:29:14 > 0:29:16Only one way to find out!
0:29:16 > 0:29:18I'm curious, anyway.
0:29:18 > 0:29:19Ooh!
0:29:19 > 0:29:23- Oh, wow!- Very cosy!- Cosy, yeah!
0:29:23 > 0:29:24I love the fireplace.
0:29:24 > 0:29:28Yeah. And it's on, as well!
0:29:29 > 0:29:33Lovely! Perfect time of year to be viewing this property, I think!
0:29:33 > 0:29:37Do you know, it's really spacious.
0:29:37 > 0:29:41- Lovely living room.- It is. You come in and just feel warmth.
0:29:41 > 0:29:45- You want to move in. It's homely. - You want to be there at Christmas!
0:29:45 > 0:29:50Fantastic. Lots of little nooks and crannies as well.
0:29:50 > 0:29:52Fantastic.
0:29:52 > 0:29:56- They're liking the character, aren't they?- This place is full of it.
0:29:56 > 0:30:01- Dining room.- Yeah. This looks great. Plenty of room for our table.
0:30:01 > 0:30:04- Yep.- Oh, I do like this. Very much.
0:30:04 > 0:30:08They've got a separate dining room here. They like that.
0:30:08 > 0:30:13Do you know what this means? It means I'd have to cook proper food!
0:30:13 > 0:30:16We can't do the take-out five nights a week, can we?
0:30:16 > 0:30:19- It's not a microwave. - No, it's not a microwave!
0:30:19 > 0:30:24- This kitchen is scaring Alison. - She'll have to do more than pick up the phone!
0:30:25 > 0:30:28Into the main bit, I suppose.
0:30:28 > 0:30:31Do you think they'll leave the fridge?
0:30:31 > 0:30:33Probably not!
0:30:33 > 0:30:36You can bring your own fridge! Don't be so mean!
0:30:36 > 0:30:38- It's brilliant, isn't it? - Loads of worktop.
0:30:38 > 0:30:40- Look how deep it is!- I know!
0:30:40 > 0:30:44- I'm not sure about the shelves, though.- No.
0:30:44 > 0:30:49You know what I'm like, swinging around with pots and pans -
0:30:49 > 0:30:51when I ever do some cooking!
0:30:51 > 0:30:55- Oh...- This feels a bit high. Do you think, where we stepped up?
0:30:55 > 0:30:59I'd want to drop it down to that level. I don't want to take a wall out!
0:30:59 > 0:31:01I could take that wall out.
0:31:01 > 0:31:06- Oh, look out!- Richard's found something to take out already! - Here go the walls!
0:31:08 > 0:31:12Oh, look! It's a downstairs bathroom.
0:31:12 > 0:31:14That is different.
0:31:14 > 0:31:17- Does that mean there's not one upstairs?- Yes, possibly.
0:31:17 > 0:31:18Downstairs bathroom.
0:31:19 > 0:31:21It's the only bathroom.
0:31:21 > 0:31:23If there is one upstairs,
0:31:23 > 0:31:25we could take that whole wall out
0:31:25 > 0:31:28and make a bigger kitchen space.
0:31:28 > 0:31:33I love Richard. Just knock down that wall. Just knock it down!
0:31:34 > 0:31:38- Very steep stairs, aren't they? - Yeah.
0:31:38 > 0:31:40- Concerning for me, that is.- Yeah.
0:31:40 > 0:31:45- Now let's get the party started. Let's take them up to the bedrooms! - I'm nervous now!
0:31:45 > 0:31:48- Low ceilings, aren't they?- Yeah.
0:31:48 > 0:31:50My head touches it.
0:31:50 > 0:31:53- Wow, you look tall now!- I'm tall!
0:31:53 > 0:31:57You do feel like a giant in some of the rooms in this house.
0:31:57 > 0:31:59- Even me!- Yes!
0:31:59 > 0:32:03- There's a lot of character to the place.- Would our bed fit in here?
0:32:03 > 0:32:05Cos someone ordered one too large for our room!
0:32:05 > 0:32:08Who could have ordered a bed that was too big for the room?
0:32:08 > 0:32:11- It wasn't Alison.- It wasn't Alison.
0:32:11 > 0:32:13- Was it Sid?- No, it wouldn't be Sid the gorilla.
0:32:13 > 0:32:18I think it was Richard. He thought if he got a big bed it was an excuse to knock a wall down!
0:32:20 > 0:32:23Oh. Now, do you know what I was thinking?
0:32:23 > 0:32:27Somebody who we've forgotten, who's very important.
0:32:27 > 0:32:32- More important than a baby, in fact! - Oh, Sid!- Sid.
0:32:32 > 0:32:34This could possibly be Sid's room.
0:32:34 > 0:32:38It's a warm, sumptuous room!
0:32:39 > 0:32:41Brilliant. I like this.
0:32:41 > 0:32:43This would be lovely.
0:32:43 > 0:32:46- Thinking nursery again? - Of course! Of course!
0:32:50 > 0:32:52Oh, my goodness!
0:32:52 > 0:32:54Oh, wow!
0:32:56 > 0:33:00Once you get up here, it's actually really groovy!
0:33:01 > 0:33:03I love that room!
0:33:03 > 0:33:05- I like that room. - It's really quirky.
0:33:05 > 0:33:08But the stairs would put me off.
0:33:08 > 0:33:11- Office? Could be an office? - No way, Jose!
0:33:11 > 0:33:14I'll be in the shed for my office!
0:33:14 > 0:33:17Look! A little corner thing with cushions!
0:33:17 > 0:33:18Brilliant!
0:33:18 > 0:33:22That could be the kids' naughty seat, or something!
0:33:22 > 0:33:26I think they really love this place. I foresee one problem, though.
0:33:26 > 0:33:29Richard hasn't got reason to use his building skills.
0:33:29 > 0:33:31You're forgetting the magic word.
0:33:31 > 0:33:33- Possibilities.- Oh, yes.
0:33:36 > 0:33:39So, then, folks. What did you think of the house?
0:33:39 > 0:33:43I loved it. Absolutely loved it. It's beautiful.
0:33:43 > 0:33:46- Beautiful!- Cutable! - I love the character of it.
0:33:46 > 0:33:51We were a bit worried about you cos you weren't talking about knocking down walls.
0:33:51 > 0:33:54I thought I could rip this out and put a garage here, maybe.
0:33:54 > 0:33:57Do you know what? Funny you should say that.
0:33:57 > 0:34:01The current owners did apply for outline planning permission
0:34:01 > 0:34:03- to extend out this way.- OK.
0:34:03 > 0:34:07It wasn't suitable for their needs cos they need to be all on one level.
0:34:07 > 0:34:12The only restriction was the roof-line had to be lower than it is now so you'd need a step down.
0:34:12 > 0:34:16So you could, in principle, extend out this way.
0:34:16 > 0:34:20So there is something to do here for you! Don't you worry!
0:34:20 > 0:34:22Get that sledgehammer out!
0:34:23 > 0:34:26- Now, as well as that... - Listen to this.
0:34:26 > 0:34:28You said you wanted a bit more space, a bit of land.
0:34:28 > 0:34:31- How does six acres grab you?- Wow!
0:34:31 > 0:34:33- Yeah?- You're joking! - Is it that hill?
0:34:34 > 0:34:37Not far off, about the size of that hill!
0:34:37 > 0:34:40This property does come, for an additional cost,
0:34:40 > 0:34:43with an extra six acres of land.
0:34:43 > 0:34:48That includes three stables, two sheds, a pond, a wood...
0:34:48 > 0:34:52- A stream, a vegetable patch, it could all be yours!- Yeah.
0:34:52 > 0:34:56- Sounds good!- Sounds good, but it all depends how much this baby is!
0:34:56 > 0:34:58So guess the price.
0:34:58 > 0:35:02To make this fair on you, Alison, cos you're not doing very well,
0:35:02 > 0:35:04we're going to do two guess-the-prices.
0:35:04 > 0:35:09- One without the plot of land, and one with.- Yep.- OK?
0:35:09 > 0:35:12- So we'll go first without. - Without.
0:35:12 > 0:35:14- Just for this gorgeous house. - Yep, OK.
0:35:14 > 0:35:18Your maximum budget is 230 grand.
0:35:18 > 0:35:21I'm thinking it's near the top already.
0:35:21 > 0:35:25I would say...220.
0:35:25 > 0:35:26220.
0:35:26 > 0:35:28- 220.- Richard?
0:35:28 > 0:35:33A bit less than that. Just the house, I'll go 170.
0:35:33 > 0:35:34That's a lot less!
0:35:35 > 0:35:38- Ever the optimist! - I've already got my coat!
0:35:38 > 0:35:42You have come fighting right back into this. You've restored some pride.
0:35:42 > 0:35:44You're not far off at all.
0:35:44 > 0:35:49Without the land, this place is on the market for £215,000.
0:35:49 > 0:35:51So that makes it two-one!
0:35:51 > 0:35:53So, Alison,
0:35:53 > 0:35:57if we now include the six acres of land, you can draw level here.
0:35:57 > 0:36:02So, how much would this place be with that six acres of land we mentioned?
0:36:02 > 0:36:04You go first, Richard.
0:36:04 > 0:36:07- 265.- 265 for the extra six acres.
0:36:07 > 0:36:09- OK.- Alison?
0:36:09 > 0:36:13- I'll go 270, then.- 270.
0:36:13 > 0:36:16OK. If only you'd just gone the other way a bit.
0:36:16 > 0:36:20It's three-one to Richard, I'm afraid. Cos actually,
0:36:20 > 0:36:23this place, if you wanted that package of six acres of land as well,
0:36:23 > 0:36:26you'd get the whole lot for 249,950.
0:36:26 > 0:36:31- Wow!- Hmm!- Wow! That's a nice surprise, isn't it?
0:36:31 > 0:36:35- It is!- If you didn't want to use the land and you did buy it,
0:36:35 > 0:36:38you could rent it out and get about £50 per week for it.
0:36:38 > 0:36:41- So potential there to make a bit of money back as well.- Yeah.
0:36:41 > 0:36:44You'd probably just want to build on it, though!
0:36:44 > 0:36:48Loads of garages, have your own car park or something!
0:36:48 > 0:36:49OK to me!
0:36:49 > 0:36:51Is that what you want to do?
0:36:51 > 0:36:56So, three properties there, guys. Three very different properties. Three different prices.
0:36:56 > 0:37:00It's time for you to decide which one you'd like to test drive.
0:37:00 > 0:37:04Why don't you take yourselves off and give it some thought. See you in a while.
0:37:04 > 0:37:06- OK. Thank you.- All right, then.
0:37:06 > 0:37:10While they do that, here's a quick reminder for you at home.
0:37:10 > 0:37:13Will they be up for the challenge of Property One,
0:37:13 > 0:37:18the detached lodge in Barnstaple with plenty of room for parties and scope for improvement?
0:37:21 > 0:37:23Or will they opt for house two, my choice,
0:37:23 > 0:37:27the upside-down house in Ilfracombe with fab views,
0:37:27 > 0:37:30a great workshop and two garages.
0:37:30 > 0:37:33- And close to cycle route 27. - OK, Simon!
0:37:36 > 0:37:39Or will the chocolate-box beauty with two options
0:37:39 > 0:37:41tickle their taste buds?
0:37:41 > 0:37:45Lot one - the warm and welcoming cottage with three bedrooms
0:37:45 > 0:37:47and heaps of original features.
0:37:50 > 0:37:54Or lot two - the same cottage, plus six acres of lovely land.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04So, here we are, back in the wild card.
0:38:04 > 0:38:07- Why have you picked it, guys? - We love the location.
0:38:07 > 0:38:11- Yeah.- Definitely. It's got a bit of a wow about it.
0:38:11 > 0:38:14Our sleuth-like surveyor gave it the once over.
0:38:14 > 0:38:19It's not a legally-binding survey and we always advise if you buy this property
0:38:19 > 0:38:21get your own independent survey done.
0:38:21 > 0:38:25But some of the points are fairly interesting.
0:38:25 > 0:38:30You mentioned character. This is a very old property - 250 years old.
0:38:30 > 0:38:34If you look out back, you can see the shale that the walls are built out of.
0:38:34 > 0:38:37It is compacted shale that's dried out over time.
0:38:37 > 0:38:40It works very well in two ways. It works well insulation-wise
0:38:40 > 0:38:43and it's also usually very dry.
0:38:43 > 0:38:47The only time you get a damp issue with this kind of property
0:38:47 > 0:38:51is when the ground level outside is higher than ground level inside.
0:38:51 > 0:38:55That is the case in this property, so damp can be an issue.
0:38:55 > 0:38:59However, he did say because it's heated by a multi-fuel burner
0:38:59 > 0:39:02and as the walls are so thick, it cancels out the damp effect.
0:39:02 > 0:39:08The extension. Simon mentioned it would have to be a bit lower than the property already is.
0:39:08 > 0:39:13He also said it would have to be a little bit set back as well, not to the edge of the road.
0:39:13 > 0:39:18But this is good news for you, because he said you'd have to leave a car parking place
0:39:18 > 0:39:22- so you might need your garage after all!- Yes.
0:39:22 > 0:39:25Again, it has to be slightly set back.
0:39:25 > 0:39:30- But all in all, we know this is a gorgeous, gorgeous cottage.- Yes.
0:39:30 > 0:39:34Hopefully loads of space for Sid the gorilla to test out.
0:39:34 > 0:39:36I see he's popped along today.
0:39:36 > 0:39:41- He's come to join us.- He's already donned the country gent look!
0:39:41 > 0:39:43- Shall we make ourselves scarce? - I think so.
0:39:43 > 0:39:46- Let the three of them enjoy this place.- Yes.
0:39:49 > 0:39:52Crikey! Alison and Richard have wasted no time
0:39:52 > 0:39:54in making sure there's room for Sid.
0:39:54 > 0:39:59- He looks good, doesn't he? He's at home here, I think. - Is the room big enough for him?
0:40:01 > 0:40:03Stop monkeying around, you two!
0:40:03 > 0:40:07Sid might be sorted, but where are you two going to sleep?
0:40:07 > 0:40:09- This is our spare.- Our guest room.
0:40:09 > 0:40:12Sid's got his room. Guest room.
0:40:12 > 0:40:15- And we're at the top? - Yeah, definitely.
0:40:19 > 0:40:21Now off to lot two.
0:40:21 > 0:40:24Let's see what they get for their money.
0:40:25 > 0:40:28MUSIC: "COUNTRY HOUSE" by Blur
0:40:36 > 0:40:40It certainly looks like they've settled down to country life!
0:40:40 > 0:40:44Will Alison now be wanting a horse, chickens and a goat as well as the gorilla?
0:40:47 > 0:40:50Oh, love's young dream!
0:40:54 > 0:40:56So, guys, I'm liking the muddy wellies!
0:40:56 > 0:40:58They've been having a test drive!
0:40:58 > 0:41:02- Just a bit, yeah.- Doesn't quite go with the outfit!
0:41:02 > 0:41:05- I didn't think about that properly! - How was it?
0:41:05 > 0:41:10- It was absolutely amazing up on the hill.- Yeah. And the views are fabulous.
0:41:10 > 0:41:15- Yes?- Apart from Rich wanting to bulldoze half of it and get a JCB in there!
0:41:15 > 0:41:19- Why does that not surprise us?- A house right on the top and the views
0:41:19 > 0:41:23that just keep going. It would be brilliant, but there you go.
0:41:23 > 0:41:28- A good space to build for you? - Not ideal cos it's a bit hilly!
0:41:28 > 0:41:33Don't encourage him to build on the gorgeous north Devon countryside!
0:41:33 > 0:41:35It's just a little project!
0:41:35 > 0:41:37Give me a digger and I'll be away!
0:41:37 > 0:41:40You've spent a bit more time in the house.
0:41:40 > 0:41:43- Hope you didn't leave muddy footprints!- Tried not to!
0:41:43 > 0:41:48How does the place feel now you've had more time to get to know it?
0:41:48 > 0:41:51- It is lovely.- It is. - Absolutely gorgeous.
0:41:51 > 0:41:55- Like a dream, really.- Character cottage type feel to it. Great.
0:41:55 > 0:41:59You know what question is coming your way. To buy or not to buy?
0:41:59 > 0:42:04Well, unfortunately, it's going to be not to buy
0:42:04 > 0:42:08because the sale of our house fell through so we're not in a position to buy.
0:42:08 > 0:42:13However, this is like a dream home so it's definitely top of the list.
0:42:13 > 0:42:17So say you got a buyer tomorrow, and who knows...
0:42:17 > 0:42:21- You never know. Hopefully.- ..you'd be back, would you?- Definitely.
0:42:21 > 0:42:23- Yeah?- To barter, not to scarper!
0:42:23 > 0:42:28Wa-hey! Well, that is good news. I'm really sorry to hear about your house falling through.
0:42:28 > 0:42:31Fingers crossed you get another buyer very soon.
0:42:31 > 0:42:35- And you and Sid the gorilla and the little one...- Ones!
0:42:35 > 0:42:40Little ones! Oh, Rich, I think you'd better stay sitting down!
0:42:40 > 0:42:44- That means more wellies!- You stay sitting down, we'll get going.
0:42:44 > 0:42:47- Lovely meeting you guys.- Lovely. - Thank you very much.- Bye!
0:43:06 > 0:43:09Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd