A couple's dream of countryside living came true as they snagged their ideal home while staying within budget.
Escape to the Country presenter Steve Brown was back on our screens today, guiding a newlywed pair from the hustle and bustle of South London to the serene landscapes of Cumbria, close to the Lake District.
Marketing consultant Claire and investment consultant Crispin were eager to swap city life for rural bliss, partly to be nearer to family. Crispin shared, "We'd love to move up North into the countryside because both our parents live in the North so it would be lovely to move up and be a bit closer to our mothers."
The purchase marks the first joint property venture for the couple, with Claire expressing excitement about creating a shared home: "I'm quite looking forward to us having a home together as opposed to spending the night in one house or the other or having stuff in one place or not in the other place."
Armed with a generous £800,000 budget and a wishlist including three bedrooms, space for guests, and land for pets and gardening, the couple were presented with several options by host Steve, reports Wales Online.
However, it was a converted cow barn in the quaint village of Selside, nestled in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, that truly captivated them. The 200 year old property boasted modern renovations and came complete with an extensive field.
After the viewing, an astonished Claire remarked: "Um.. I don't know what to say. This is perfect."
Steve queried: "What do you think this is on the market for? ".
Claire ventured a guess: "This is a lot and it's in the Yorkshire Dales National Park so I'm going to go for £760,000."
Crispin took a stab: "I'm going to get £740,000."
To their amazement, Steve disclosed: "Well everything that we've looked at today comes with a price tag of £745,000."
Claire exclaimed: "Wow. I keep on saying that but I never would have found a house like this. This is the house I think."
The couple were taken with the property's ample space and features, and although they were stunned by the asking price, Steve noted the high level of interest it had garnered.
Wrapping up the episode of Escape to the Country, Steve shared the thrilling news that the couple's offer was accepted, securing them their dream home.
