0:00:02 > 0:00:04150 years ago, the beautiful vineyards behind me were
0:00:04 > 0:00:09ravaged by millions of parasites, devastating the land and the people.
0:00:09 > 0:00:12Find out what happened and where I am in just a moment.
0:00:32 > 0:00:35Today's buyers are taking their continental love affair
0:00:35 > 0:00:38one step further with plans afoot to create a new life together
0:00:38 > 0:00:40across the Channel.
0:00:40 > 0:00:42It's very romantic, isn't it, Jill?
0:00:42 > 0:00:44- Oh, absolutely, darling.- Yes.
0:00:44 > 0:00:46THEY LAUGH
0:00:46 > 0:00:50But their starry-eyed fantasy may need to move with the times.
0:00:50 > 0:00:53It's really hip, but how hip are you two?
0:00:53 > 0:00:54I think the word "hip"
0:00:54 > 0:00:58is not what you would automatically describe me as being!
0:01:00 > 0:01:05I'm in the South of France in the Languedoc-Roussillon region,
0:01:05 > 0:01:09and this area produces more wine than anywhere else in the world.
0:01:09 > 0:01:13That's more wine than Australia, Bordeaux, South Africa
0:01:13 > 0:01:15and Chile all put together.
0:01:15 > 0:01:20But in 1875, the French economy was plunged into turmoil when a deadly
0:01:20 > 0:01:25parasite was unwittingly brought into Europe on American vines.
0:01:25 > 0:01:28Thankfully, the vineyards have been replanted
0:01:28 > 0:01:30and the economy shot back up.
0:01:30 > 0:01:34And now, here, they produce a third of all French wine.
0:01:34 > 0:01:39That's around two billion bottles every year.
0:01:39 > 0:01:41Right down on the Spanish border
0:01:41 > 0:01:44and stretching across an area from the Mediterranean to the Pyrenees,
0:01:44 > 0:01:50Languedoc-Roussillon covers a wild and massive 10,000 square miles.
0:01:50 > 0:01:54A sunbaked region of vine-covered hills, wide, sandy beaches
0:01:54 > 0:01:56and pretty, historic villages,
0:01:56 > 0:01:59Languedoc owes much of its roots to the Romans.
0:01:59 > 0:02:01It was on this rugged French terrain
0:02:01 > 0:02:04around 19 BC that they built Pont du Gard,
0:02:04 > 0:02:06an astonishing three-tier aqueduct that rises
0:02:06 > 0:02:09some 50 metres above the river's deep valley.
0:02:09 > 0:02:11Whilst one foot is in the past,
0:02:11 > 0:02:14the other is firmly investing in the future
0:02:14 > 0:02:16as Languedoc's capital, Montpellier,
0:02:16 > 0:02:20is world-renowned for academic excellence as well as the arts.
0:02:20 > 0:02:22With contrasting cultures, construction
0:02:22 > 0:02:26and landscapes fringed by over 100 miles of coast,
0:02:26 > 0:02:29Languedoc-Roussillon makes a fascinating foundation
0:02:29 > 0:02:32from where to set up home with the added bonus
0:02:32 > 0:02:38of some 300 days of glorious sunshine every year.
0:02:38 > 0:02:41But what is it about this region that's attracted our buyers?
0:02:41 > 0:02:43Let's meet them to find out.
0:02:45 > 0:02:47Milton Keynes-based retirees Dave and Jill
0:02:47 > 0:02:51aren't averse to a challenge when it comes to setting up home.
0:02:51 > 0:02:53They decided the best way to get the right house that would
0:02:53 > 0:02:58fit their large family was to start from scratch and build it.
0:02:58 > 0:03:02We have four daughters, the youngest two of which are twins,
0:03:02 > 0:03:04and we wanted them all to have the same size room.
0:03:04 > 0:03:06The only way we could get that, affordably,
0:03:06 > 0:03:08was basically build our home.
0:03:08 > 0:03:11- We've never regretted it, but I don't think we'd do it again!- No.
0:03:11 > 0:03:13I think it's a one-off.
0:03:13 > 0:03:16After ten years in their custom-designed home,
0:03:16 > 0:03:19their daughters are now grown up and they've set their sights
0:03:19 > 0:03:23on the next property adventure, this time in southern France.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26Well, last year, after having visited Le Grau-du-Roi,
0:03:26 > 0:03:30and we also went to Aigues-Mortes and various other places around there,
0:03:30 > 0:03:35all in the Languedoc region, we thought, "Right, this suits us fine."
0:03:35 > 0:03:36It's got a lot to offer.
0:03:36 > 0:03:40- So I think that that whet our appetite for the area.- Yes, yes.
0:03:40 > 0:03:43Dave has recently retired from his work in electrical engineering
0:03:43 > 0:03:45and Jill from primary school teaching,
0:03:45 > 0:03:49so now they have more time to focus on their shared passions.
0:03:49 > 0:03:51We both play boules.
0:03:51 > 0:03:54We think it's quite a nice Sunday afternoon, seeing everybody.
0:03:54 > 0:03:56I don't think I'd probably wear a beret or not,
0:03:56 > 0:03:58but we might go for that eventually!
0:03:58 > 0:04:01And this Francophile pair are so committed to crossing
0:04:01 > 0:04:04the Channel, it seems it won't be long before berets are,
0:04:04 > 0:04:06indeed, a permanent fixture.
0:04:06 > 0:04:08We're not after going somewhere where there's tourists,
0:04:08 > 0:04:10British, Italian or whatever.
0:04:10 > 0:04:12We want to meet the French.
0:04:12 > 0:04:16So the final step is to actually move out to their beloved France.
0:04:16 > 0:04:20And when it comes to the new house, it must be equally a la mode.
0:04:21 > 0:04:22Enjoying that?
0:04:22 > 0:04:26'I like character. I don't really want'
0:04:26 > 0:04:29the bland, modern home. It's got to feel French.
0:04:29 > 0:04:33I'd like to feel that when I'm in the home, that I'm in a French house.
0:04:33 > 0:04:35All the windows will be shuttered.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38There could well be a gravel drive leading up the front to it.
0:04:38 > 0:04:39It must have a swimming pool
0:04:39 > 0:04:43and probably a minimum of half an acre, landwise.
0:04:43 > 0:04:46Sounds like they're after a pretty impressive property,
0:04:46 > 0:04:50- and, luckily, they have the funds that should fit.- Cheers!
0:04:50 > 0:04:54Our budget for the move is between £500,000 and £650,000.
0:04:57 > 0:05:00Our couple want to relocate to Languedoc, but are yet to
0:05:00 > 0:05:04pinpoint an exact location within this expansive region.
0:05:04 > 0:05:07And now they've arrived in France, we're all meeting up
0:05:07 > 0:05:10to find out more about their prospective migration.
0:05:11 > 0:05:16Jill, Dave, why do you want to live in this particular region?
0:05:16 > 0:05:17The weather, I think.
0:05:17 > 0:05:19Yes, and the proximity to the Med
0:05:19 > 0:05:20because we are planning on buying a boat.
0:05:20 > 0:05:23What about these four gorgeous daughters?
0:05:23 > 0:05:25You'll be leaving them behind, upping sticks,
0:05:25 > 0:05:28- coming to a foreign land. - We're going to France.
0:05:28 > 0:05:33- We're not going to the moon!- As long as we see one another regularly.
0:05:33 > 0:05:35And what are you looking for from this property?
0:05:35 > 0:05:38Two studies, cos he's always moaning at me
0:05:38 > 0:05:40that I'm messing up the computer.
0:05:40 > 0:05:45So that would mean we'd probably have to use bedrooms as studies.
0:05:45 > 0:05:48And we've come to the conclusion we need four.
0:05:48 > 0:05:51Downstairs has to have a large kitchen, which we're
0:05:51 > 0:05:57prepared to make larger, ie we'd be knocking down a wall, if necessary.
0:05:57 > 0:05:59- We're flexible on the internals. - Yes.
0:05:59 > 0:06:01- Are you ready?- Yes.- Absolutely!
0:06:01 > 0:06:04- Shall I take you to the first one?- Please do, yes.
0:06:04 > 0:06:07- Absolument!- Follow me. Very good. This way.
0:06:07 > 0:06:11For a top budget of £650,000,
0:06:11 > 0:06:13our buyers are looking for a traditional French home
0:06:13 > 0:06:17that offers four bedrooms, a spacious kitchen/diner in a large
0:06:17 > 0:06:20plot of land that has a swimming pool.
0:06:20 > 0:06:22They're up for a little remodelling to get the property just right,
0:06:22 > 0:06:27but the location must be within an hour of the sea.
0:06:27 > 0:06:29And we've got an arresting assortment of beautiful
0:06:29 > 0:06:32French houses that will take our buyers right through
0:06:32 > 0:06:35the property ages, including the mystery house,
0:06:35 > 0:06:39where the present joins forces with the past.
0:06:42 > 0:06:45For the first property, we're starting just over
0:06:45 > 0:06:48half an hour's drive from the coast in the village of Peret.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52Set amidst vast, verdant agricultural land,
0:06:52 > 0:06:56Peret is a small and quiet village with many historic buildings
0:06:56 > 0:06:57of fading grandeur.
0:06:57 > 0:07:00The house lies within walking distance of the shops
0:07:00 > 0:07:03and epitomises rustic French style, so I'm hopeful
0:07:03 > 0:07:07that it's somewhere Dave and Jill will find appealing.
0:07:07 > 0:07:13- And this is the first property. - Very nice.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16Well, it's got what we wanted - shutters, stone walls.
0:07:16 > 0:07:17It's picture perfect.
0:07:17 > 0:07:20I can see myself here straightaway, from the outside.
0:07:20 > 0:07:24It was built in 1800. That's what it says on the deeds.
0:07:24 > 0:07:27- I would never have believed that. - I thought it was younger than that.
0:07:27 > 0:07:29I can't wait to go in.
0:07:29 > 0:07:31- Excellent. Shall we do it? - Certainly, yes.
0:07:31 > 0:07:33We'll go through the front door.
0:07:33 > 0:07:37This wonderfully spacious 200-year-old stone-built property
0:07:37 > 0:07:39spreads itself over three floors
0:07:39 > 0:07:42and was completely renovated in the late '90s.
0:07:42 > 0:07:44We're beginning the tour in the main reception rooms
0:07:44 > 0:07:47on the ground floor, where there's an L-shaped dining
0:07:47 > 0:07:50and living area as well as a fully fitted country kitchen.
0:07:53 > 0:07:58- Now, this is the dining room.- Right. - That's the kitchen through there.
0:07:58 > 0:08:01And you wanted something old, you wanted something charming,
0:08:01 > 0:08:05- with character.- With the beams, yes. - Aren't they amazing?
0:08:05 > 0:08:07Well, it's certainly got loads of character.
0:08:07 > 0:08:10- Well, there's lots more to show you. - Oh, can't wait!
0:08:10 > 0:08:13- Are you ready to go upstairs? - Yes, yes. Fine, thank you.- This way.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15- Good vibes so far.- Good.
0:08:15 > 0:08:18The wooden staircase from the reception areas take us
0:08:18 > 0:08:19straight up to the first floor,
0:08:19 > 0:08:23where a large study leads straight into the beautiful master bedroom.
0:08:25 > 0:08:28You can tell that this is an old building when you see those beams.
0:08:28 > 0:08:30When you see the shape of the roof, etc, yes.
0:08:30 > 0:08:35With THAT stunning view to wake up to every morning.
0:08:35 > 0:08:37On this floor, you've also got a single bedroom,
0:08:37 > 0:08:39but could be used as another study.
0:08:39 > 0:08:42There's also a really decent-sized bathroom with
0:08:42 > 0:08:45lots of storage in it, all on this floor.
0:08:45 > 0:08:49- I mean, this is a lovely-sized room. - It's very romantic, isn't it, Jill?
0:08:49 > 0:08:51- Oh, absolutely, darling.- Yes.
0:08:54 > 0:08:59Well, there's lots more to show you, so follow me. There's more this way.
0:08:59 > 0:09:02The final floor is back downstairs
0:09:02 > 0:09:05and down again to the lower ground floor, where a separate
0:09:05 > 0:09:09entrance takes us into completely self-contained quarters.
0:09:11 > 0:09:14- This is different. - It is, isn't it? Good different?
0:09:14 > 0:09:16Yes, again, it's a good size.
0:09:16 > 0:09:21So on this floor, you have two really decent-sized double bedrooms
0:09:21 > 0:09:24- with their own ensuite shower rooms.- Right.
0:09:24 > 0:09:26It means you have a perfectly self-contained area
0:09:26 > 0:09:30- for your daughters, for any guests, for any friends.- Yes.
0:09:30 > 0:09:34- I have saved, in my opinion, the best till last.- Really?
0:09:34 > 0:09:37Can't imagine what you're going to show me.
0:09:37 > 0:09:40- Time will tell.- Come on. This way. - You lead the way.
0:09:42 > 0:09:46Through this beautiful garden to this.
0:09:48 > 0:09:52That view is just priceless.
0:09:52 > 0:09:53It's gorgeous.
0:09:53 > 0:09:58Now, below you, you've got the garden with a swimming pool.
0:09:58 > 0:10:01This property comes with quite a lot of land.
0:10:01 > 0:10:03It comes with 0.8 of an acre.
0:10:03 > 0:10:08I could see us sitting out here with the sun shining in. Yes.
0:10:08 > 0:10:10- South-facing.- Spot on.
0:10:10 > 0:10:15Now, the one thing you don't know about the house yet is the price.
0:10:15 > 0:10:18I'll hazard a guess at 525,000.
0:10:18 > 0:10:20525. Jill?
0:10:20 > 0:10:25I think it's on for £550,000.
0:10:25 > 0:10:30- OK.- OK.- It's actually on for less.
0:10:30 > 0:10:32So the whole house is currently on
0:10:32 > 0:10:37at £477,000.
0:10:37 > 0:10:40I want you to go off, I want you to explore the house on your own,
0:10:40 > 0:10:42really get into all the nooks and crannies,
0:10:42 > 0:10:45- discuss it amongst yourselves and I'll catch up with you shortly.- OK.
0:10:45 > 0:10:48- OK? Off you go.- Thank you very much. Thank you.- Enjoy.- Thank you.
0:10:48 > 0:10:51At over £100,000 under budget,
0:10:51 > 0:10:55property number one is a detached stone-built house
0:10:55 > 0:10:58across three floors with many historic, characterful features.
0:10:58 > 0:11:02As a whole, it offers four bedrooms, open-plan living and dining areas,
0:11:02 > 0:11:08paved terraces, an infinity pool and just under an acre of land.
0:11:11 > 0:11:15- Here they come, the explorers. - Yes.- Seen enough?
0:11:15 > 0:11:18- Yes, I think so, yes.- Satisfied? - Yes, very much, thank you.
0:11:18 > 0:11:20Can I extract you away from this property now, then?
0:11:20 > 0:11:23- I think so.- I think so, yes, I think it's time.
0:11:23 > 0:11:25Good, OK, follow me, then. This way.
0:11:33 > 0:11:37The next property lies in Magalas which will take our buyers
0:11:37 > 0:11:41just a little further inland and so a bit further away from the sea.
0:11:41 > 0:11:44And there's a good selection of essential amenities within
0:11:44 > 0:11:48the small town of Magalas which is a short walk away from the house
0:11:48 > 0:11:51we've lined up.
0:11:51 > 0:11:53Now THAT is a whole lot of house.
0:11:53 > 0:11:55I think it's excellent.
0:11:55 > 0:11:58Very good looking from this aspect, yes.
0:11:58 > 0:12:00How old do you think it is, Dave?
0:12:02 > 0:12:06- 1920s, '30s. - I would say...1880.
0:12:07 > 0:12:12- I don't want to take the sheen off it, but it's five years old.- Is it?!
0:12:12 > 0:12:15- It's a baby!- We're the experts.
0:12:15 > 0:12:17- It looks old. - It does, doesn't it?
0:12:17 > 0:12:19- Are you ready to go in? - I'm looking forward to it.
0:12:19 > 0:12:22- Definitely.- Come on, then, this way.
0:12:22 > 0:12:26The requested checklist is all there from the outside, with a long
0:12:26 > 0:12:30gravel driveway, shuttered windows and climbing vines.
0:12:30 > 0:12:33But this property will really challenge Jill and Dave's
0:12:33 > 0:12:37preconceptions of French style, because although it is very French,
0:12:37 > 0:12:40and very stylish, it certainly isn't rustic.
0:12:43 > 0:12:44In you come.
0:12:45 > 0:12:50Straight into this huge lounge, kitchen, dining area.
0:12:50 > 0:12:54It's really hip. But how hip are you two?
0:12:54 > 0:12:57I think the word "hip" is not what you would automatically describe me
0:12:57 > 0:13:01as being! We've got the old and the new within the same eyeline,
0:13:01 > 0:13:04and it takes a bit of getting used to.
0:13:04 > 0:13:06Jill, you're the one who does all the cooking,
0:13:06 > 0:13:09so what do you think of that kitchen? Is that appealing to you?
0:13:09 > 0:13:14No. Because Dave knows that I won't have stainless steel.
0:13:14 > 0:13:17No, we're not particularly keen on stainless steel, no.
0:13:17 > 0:13:20This is about having lots of friends or family round, music on,
0:13:20 > 0:13:22someone cooking over there.
0:13:22 > 0:13:26If we had the four children here, that might be different,
0:13:26 > 0:13:29but I don't think they're going to come every weekend.
0:13:29 > 0:13:32Let's go and have a closer look at the living area.
0:13:33 > 0:13:36A very different feel, and they've managed to cut it off
0:13:36 > 0:13:37by putting the sofa the way it is.
0:13:37 > 0:13:41But again it's about whether this is your way of living.
0:13:41 > 0:13:45I mean, this area on its own, divided from the kitchen area,
0:13:45 > 0:13:46I think would be fine.
0:13:46 > 0:13:49But I can't really see myself sitting over there and Jill
0:13:49 > 0:13:52cooking away with the noise, the clangs, the smells etc, etc.
0:13:52 > 0:13:56- With my music on and you trying to watch television.- Yes.
0:13:56 > 0:13:59I had high hopes, cos outside was...
0:13:59 > 0:14:00It looked totally different
0:14:00 > 0:14:03to what the inside is actually looking like, yes.
0:14:05 > 0:14:08Regrettably, it's clear that the beautiful through living
0:14:08 > 0:14:12and kitchen zones just aren't working for Jill or Dave,
0:14:12 > 0:14:15but there's plenty more to see on the ground floor, with walls
0:14:15 > 0:14:18and doors, including an office,
0:14:18 > 0:14:20separate utility room
0:14:20 > 0:14:24and a huge, swanky bedroom en-suite.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27And in you come into, I think you have to agree,
0:14:27 > 0:14:30quite a spectacular master bedroom.
0:14:30 > 0:14:34Just look at the two French doors leading out onto that gorgeous,
0:14:34 > 0:14:36gorgeous garden. Wake up in the morning
0:14:36 > 0:14:38and dive straight into that pool.
0:14:38 > 0:14:39- Straight in, yes.- Yes.
0:14:39 > 0:14:42This is beautiful, it's very nice.
0:14:42 > 0:14:44It's just not to my taste.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49It's really surprising that this property continues to disappoint,
0:14:49 > 0:14:53despite the very impressive style and dimensions.
0:14:53 > 0:14:56Upstairs, the polished finish continues,
0:14:56 > 0:14:58with four more en-suite bedrooms.
0:14:58 > 0:15:01One is being used as a gym and store room,
0:15:01 > 0:15:04and the other three are all great sized double rooms,
0:15:04 > 0:15:07creating bags of space for visiting family and guests.
0:15:07 > 0:15:11We're making our way back outside to the elegantly landscaped
0:15:11 > 0:15:14south-facing garden that has two paved terraces
0:15:14 > 0:15:16and a rather inviting pool.
0:15:18 > 0:15:21Now the property comes with just over half an acre of land.
0:15:21 > 0:15:22Brilliant.
0:15:22 > 0:15:25I don't think we could ask for any more for the garden or the pool.
0:15:25 > 0:15:29So, Jill, how much do you think this house is priced at?
0:15:29 > 0:15:33I'm going to pitch it at £570,000.
0:15:33 > 0:15:37I'll plump for £610,000.
0:15:37 > 0:15:42- It's actually on at around £650,000. - Oh, my.
0:15:42 > 0:15:45Right.
0:15:45 > 0:15:47Oh, I'm taken aback there, yes.
0:15:47 > 0:15:50With all that in mind, go back in there,
0:15:50 > 0:15:53have another look around, explore the upstairs.
0:15:53 > 0:15:55- There's a huge double garage to look at.- OK.- Fine.
0:15:55 > 0:15:58Thanks a lot. Okey doke.
0:15:58 > 0:16:02Right on budget, this immaculate, newly built property
0:16:02 > 0:16:05is a whimsical combination of traditional charm
0:16:05 > 0:16:07with a tres chic design.
0:16:07 > 0:16:09It has a huge ground-floor reception with a modern kitchen
0:16:09 > 0:16:12and living room, five en-suite bedrooms
0:16:12 > 0:16:15and a private landscaped garden with a swimming pool.
0:16:18 > 0:16:20The intrepid house explorers.
0:16:20 > 0:16:24- Return.- Return! Exactly. Retourner.
0:16:24 > 0:16:26- Are you done? - Yes.- We are indeed, yes.
0:16:26 > 0:16:28- This way, then, please. - Good.
0:16:36 > 0:16:39With Languedoc's vast, fertile plains of vineyards,
0:16:39 > 0:16:43the hillside village of Saint-Pons-de-Mauchiens
0:16:43 > 0:16:45rises majestically on the landscape
0:16:45 > 0:16:49and is home to British expats Bob and Amanda,
0:16:49 > 0:16:52who relocated here from Norfolk over a decade ago,
0:16:52 > 0:16:55so we've arranged for them to share their experiences with Jill and Dave
0:16:55 > 0:16:57over a very French pastime.
0:16:57 > 0:17:01- Hello, there!- Bonjour. - Bonjour, bonjour.
0:17:01 > 0:17:03Bob, Amanda, lovely to see you.
0:17:03 > 0:17:05These two have lived here for 13 years.
0:17:05 > 0:17:09I thought it'd be good for you two to spend some time together
0:17:09 > 0:17:12- and maybe play a game of petanque. Are you competitive?- Very.
0:17:12 > 0:17:14- How about you guys?- Indeed we are.
0:17:14 > 0:17:16This should be interesting, then.
0:17:16 > 0:17:18Anyway, best of luck and I'll see you shortly.
0:17:18 > 0:17:22Petanque is played all over France, and almost all towns and villages
0:17:22 > 0:17:24have a boulodrome.
0:17:24 > 0:17:27The modern game was created in the early 20th century,
0:17:27 > 0:17:32and the first petanque tournament was held in France in 1945.
0:17:32 > 0:17:34Since then, the game has become
0:17:34 > 0:17:37one of the most-practised style of bowls in the world,
0:17:37 > 0:17:41but is a sport naturally dominated by the French.
0:17:41 > 0:17:44What's the difference between boules and petanque?
0:17:44 > 0:17:48The game is called petanque - or pet-ank as they say down here -
0:17:48 > 0:17:51and it's played using boules
0:17:51 > 0:17:53on a boulodrome,
0:17:53 > 0:17:56but the actual game itself is called petanque.
0:17:56 > 0:18:00We play it with boules and a cochon, or pig,
0:18:00 > 0:18:04and, basically, the simple idea of the game
0:18:04 > 0:18:09is to get the boule as close to the cochon as possible.
0:18:09 > 0:18:11- Shall we have a go?- Why not?
0:18:21 > 0:18:25So what we do is, we look at who's the closest boule now.
0:18:25 > 0:18:29Although they are similar, that one I'd say was closer.
0:18:29 > 0:18:31So that one is ours, so that means it's one point.
0:18:31 > 0:18:34- Un point!- Un point! Absolutely.
0:18:34 > 0:18:38And you keep going until you get to 13.
0:18:41 > 0:18:42Oh!
0:18:42 > 0:18:45After some friendly competition, the two teams are rejoining me
0:18:45 > 0:18:48on the terrace at Bob and Amanda's home,
0:18:48 > 0:18:50where I've already made myself comfortable
0:18:50 > 0:18:53with some coffee and croissants.
0:18:53 > 0:18:56How was it?
0:18:56 > 0:18:58- Lovely. Very good.- Good.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01Well, I think it's important that you dig a bit deeper
0:19:01 > 0:19:04about the reality of living in France.
0:19:04 > 0:19:06So, Amanda, just tell us a bit about some of the pitfalls
0:19:06 > 0:19:09that they should be looking out for when they get here.
0:19:09 > 0:19:12There are obviously certain pitfalls not everybody thinks about,
0:19:12 > 0:19:14especially if you're retired.
0:19:14 > 0:19:16Of course, your pension,
0:19:16 > 0:19:19so you need to be very aware of exchange rates.
0:19:19 > 0:19:22- Yeah. - Because you can actually think,
0:19:22 > 0:19:25"Oh, well, we've got enough money to live on,
0:19:25 > 0:19:27"we can be comfortable,"
0:19:27 > 0:19:32and then, suddenly, the exchange rate will go horribly wrong
0:19:32 > 0:19:35and then you're thinking,
0:19:35 > 0:19:38"Crumbs, I'm going to have some problems this month."
0:19:38 > 0:19:40What about the cost of living once you're out here?
0:19:40 > 0:19:42I find it rather expensive now.
0:19:42 > 0:19:44What about cars?
0:19:44 > 0:19:48Car insurance here in France is considerably higher
0:19:48 > 0:19:50than it is in England.
0:19:50 > 0:19:55They will take into account your no-claims bonus from England.
0:19:55 > 0:19:59What's it like integrating into French culture? What's it like...?
0:19:59 > 0:20:02No matter how much you integrate, you're still the Brits.
0:20:02 > 0:20:04Generally, one of the easiest ways is
0:20:04 > 0:20:07by volunteering to do things like work on the comite des fetes,
0:20:07 > 0:20:10and, as we've already seen, to play petanque
0:20:10 > 0:20:13and to join in with the social activities of the village.
0:20:13 > 0:20:16They are more than happy to welcome you with open arms.
0:20:16 > 0:20:19It makes me feel I want to buy a house in the surrounding area
0:20:19 > 0:20:24so that we can meet and beat them at petanque!
0:20:24 > 0:20:25Wonderful.
0:20:25 > 0:20:27Bob and Amanda have given our buyers
0:20:27 > 0:20:31a deeper insight into the day-to-day practicalities of life here,
0:20:31 > 0:20:34though there are a number of things to watch out for.
0:20:34 > 0:20:38The purchase price should include the estate agent's fees,
0:20:38 > 0:20:40but always check before you make your offer.
0:20:40 > 0:20:43Expect to pay up to 10% of the property's value
0:20:43 > 0:20:44in taxes and fees.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47Remember that the exchange rate you receive
0:20:47 > 0:20:49when you transfer your pounds into euros
0:20:49 > 0:20:52will have a direct impact on the final costs,
0:20:52 > 0:20:55but you can fix an exchange rate for a later purchase,
0:20:55 > 0:20:59which could potentially save you thousands of pounds.
0:20:59 > 0:21:03It's the day of the mystery property.
0:21:03 > 0:21:06They wanted something with character,
0:21:06 > 0:21:10and this house has got it in buckets.
0:21:10 > 0:21:14But I am a little bit worried, because it could challenge them.
0:21:14 > 0:21:19It's very French, but maybe not in the way they're expecting.
0:21:19 > 0:21:23The final property lies right in the town centre of Servian,
0:21:23 > 0:21:25about 12 miles from the sea.
0:21:25 > 0:21:29This small town is full of southern French charm
0:21:29 > 0:21:32with an old but elegant architecture
0:21:32 > 0:21:35and the mystery element of this central property
0:21:35 > 0:21:38is that it offers our buyers the smallest plot of land,
0:21:38 > 0:21:41so we're heading into the back entrance
0:21:41 > 0:21:43to find out what type of house and garden
0:21:43 > 0:21:47is hidden behind the very discreet exterior.
0:21:47 > 0:21:53Now we come into this oasis of a property.
0:21:53 > 0:21:55Very different, yes, yes.
0:21:55 > 0:21:58Yes. Well, it's a townhouse, which is different, isn't it?
0:21:58 > 0:22:01- It's supposed to be the mystery house so it's got to be...- A mystery.
0:22:01 > 0:22:05- Looks very modern, doesn't it? - Yes.- And behind you,
0:22:05 > 0:22:08you have a studio flat.
0:22:08 > 0:22:12In there, you've got a bed at the top. It's even got its own en suite.
0:22:12 > 0:22:14- You can see the swimming pool.... - Yes.
0:22:14 > 0:22:17- ..which is just divine. Let's go in.- OK.
0:22:17 > 0:22:22Both Jill and Dave are keeping quite tight-lipped as I think
0:22:22 > 0:22:24they're both fearing another uber-modern home.
0:22:24 > 0:22:28But I've very high hopes that our couple will be pleasantly surprised
0:22:28 > 0:22:31by this historic property,
0:22:31 > 0:22:34which was completely renovated in 2005.
0:22:34 > 0:22:36Come in.
0:22:36 > 0:22:39Straight into the kitchen.
0:22:39 > 0:22:41I think it's lovely.
0:22:41 > 0:22:43I like beams. That's the first thing I've noticed.
0:22:43 > 0:22:46- And I like the size.- Yes.- Yes.
0:22:46 > 0:22:48I think it's gorgeous.
0:22:48 > 0:22:50- It is, isn't it?- Hmm.
0:22:50 > 0:22:53- Could you see yourself cooking here, though?- Yes. I've seen the sink.
0:22:53 > 0:22:55The sink is incredible.
0:22:55 > 0:22:58What do you think of this kitchen, Dave?
0:22:58 > 0:23:02I find it very pleasant. I like the fact there's so much window in it,
0:23:02 > 0:23:04glass, that it is light and airy.
0:23:04 > 0:23:09- Let me show you the rest of the house.- OK.- This way, please.
0:23:09 > 0:23:12Through this gorgeous living room
0:23:12 > 0:23:16into the original part of the house.
0:23:16 > 0:23:20And you can see that it's done in keeping with the original style,
0:23:20 > 0:23:23in that everything's been stripped back, exposed.
0:23:23 > 0:23:26- We love those bricks. - We like vaulted brick ceilings.
0:23:26 > 0:23:29This is a very stylish house.
0:23:29 > 0:23:31- Yes. I think it's gorgeous.- Yes.
0:23:31 > 0:23:35Take the furniture out and you've got a blank canvas to go on.
0:23:35 > 0:23:36That's good.
0:23:36 > 0:23:37Lots more to see.
0:23:37 > 0:23:41- This house is full of surprises. This way.- OK.
0:23:41 > 0:23:45Utility room, boiler, storage cupboards.
0:23:45 > 0:23:49Downstairs toilet. Fantastic office.
0:23:49 > 0:23:51Up we go.
0:23:57 > 0:24:00Into the master bedroom.
0:24:00 > 0:24:02- I like this.- Dave, what do you think?
0:24:02 > 0:24:05Well, they've not tried to change it from downstairs,
0:24:05 > 0:24:08which I think's a good thing. Exceptionally well done out.
0:24:08 > 0:24:10They've given it some thought, certainly.
0:24:10 > 0:24:13There's your own private terrace there.
0:24:13 > 0:24:15- No door. Straight onto the bathroom. - Straight onto it, yes.
0:24:15 > 0:24:17But it's the French way!
0:24:17 > 0:24:21- That's fine. This is our bedroom. This is the bedroom.- That's right.
0:24:21 > 0:24:24- We're not bothered about having a door here, no.- No.
0:24:24 > 0:24:26I like the slanted ceiling
0:24:26 > 0:24:31and I know that without even touching the beams that they are original.
0:24:31 > 0:24:35There are two other bedrooms on this floor, and both come with their own
0:24:35 > 0:24:37en suites, wet rooms,
0:24:37 > 0:24:39done spectacularly.
0:24:39 > 0:24:41Shall we go outside and talk money?
0:24:41 > 0:24:43- Why not?- Yes.- Let's do it.
0:24:45 > 0:24:48Thankfully, all the rooms in this remarkable mystery house
0:24:48 > 0:24:51seem to be delivering in spades so far.
0:24:51 > 0:24:54All that's left is to survey the courtyard garden
0:24:54 > 0:24:57and find out what this mystery lot costs.
0:24:57 > 0:25:00Watch your step, Jill.
0:25:00 > 0:25:04Into the gorgeous garden. Just like the house, everything has been
0:25:04 > 0:25:05thought through out here, as well.
0:25:05 > 0:25:10You've got this beautiful pathway that's covered in ivy.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13- There's a fountain. - It's been done very professionally.
0:25:13 > 0:25:16It's certainly been done to Jill and I's liking, for sure, hasn't it?
0:25:16 > 0:25:18So, how much do you think this
0:25:18 > 0:25:22really rather special property is on at?
0:25:22 > 0:25:26I'm going to put a figure of £700,000.
0:25:26 > 0:25:30I'll hedge my bets and go slightly higher at 720,000.
0:25:30 > 0:25:34It's actually on for less.
0:25:34 > 0:25:36Ooh.
0:25:36 > 0:25:40It's on for around £650,000.
0:25:42 > 0:25:44Somewhat surprised, yes.
0:25:44 > 0:25:46- Somewhat surprised?- Yes.
0:25:46 > 0:25:49At least it's edging in the right direction.
0:25:49 > 0:25:51Why don't the two of you go back in,
0:25:51 > 0:25:54really take your time, enjoy looking around this property,
0:25:54 > 0:25:57- and I'll see you in a mo? - OK. Thank you.
0:25:57 > 0:26:00Bang on budget once again, the mystery proposition
0:26:00 > 0:26:03is a striking 19th-century townhouse
0:26:03 > 0:26:07that's been given a contemporary, but sympathetic makeover.
0:26:07 > 0:26:09It has an open-plan kitchen-diner,
0:26:09 > 0:26:12three receptions, three en-suite bedrooms,
0:26:12 > 0:26:15an attached one-bedroom studio
0:26:15 > 0:26:19and a landscaped courtyard garden with pool.
0:26:19 > 0:26:20Hello, my dears.
0:26:20 > 0:26:22- Hi.- And that is it.
0:26:22 > 0:26:24The house tour's fini.
0:26:24 > 0:26:26- Done.- Yes.
0:26:26 > 0:26:30Are you ready to go off somewhere and have an in-depth conversation?
0:26:30 > 0:26:33- I think so, yes.- Where you can tell me what you're really thinking!
0:26:33 > 0:26:36- Exactly, yes.- Come on, then, this way.
0:26:39 > 0:26:43And we're finishing up back where we started -
0:26:43 > 0:26:45in the heart of the Peret countryside
0:26:45 > 0:26:47and on the terrace of the very first house.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50I was going to say, "Are you really ready for this?"
0:26:50 > 0:26:52But now I've seen you in the beret, pff!
0:26:52 > 0:26:56- Well...- Who am I kidding?! - Naturellement.
0:26:56 > 0:27:00Now, you have been here umpteen times. Could you live in this part
0:27:00 > 0:27:02- of France?- Without a doubt, yes.
0:27:02 > 0:27:04I'd love to.
0:27:04 > 0:27:06So let's talk about these properties, then.
0:27:06 > 0:27:08I think we've got it in a nutshell.
0:27:08 > 0:27:10The mystery house interior,
0:27:10 > 0:27:14Magalas exterior...in the location we're in now, in Peret.
0:27:14 > 0:27:18If we could shoehorn the three into one, we'd have it made to a T.
0:27:18 > 0:27:21The property we want is out there somewhere
0:27:21 > 0:27:23and now we've got a fairly small area to attack.
0:27:23 > 0:27:27Previously, it was the south of France, then Languedoc-Roussillon
0:27:27 > 0:27:28and now it's a portion of it.
0:27:28 > 0:27:31- Let's drink to that.- Certainly. - Good luck to the two of you.
0:27:31 > 0:27:35- OK. Sante.- Sante.- Sante.
0:27:37 > 0:27:42Jill and Dave are poised and ready for their big move to France.
0:27:42 > 0:27:44In fact, I think Jill was born ready.
0:27:44 > 0:27:46But it's only through their time here with us
0:27:46 > 0:27:48that they have managed to pinpoint
0:27:48 > 0:27:50exactly where it is that they want to live
0:27:50 > 0:27:53and they've truly fallen in love.
0:27:53 > 0:27:56They have found the place that they want to spend
0:27:56 > 0:27:58the rest of their lives.
0:27:58 > 0:28:02Join me next time for another Escape To The Continent.
0:28:02 > 0:28:06If you wish to escape to the Continent and would like our help,
0:28:06 > 0:28:08please apply online at...